Peanut the Chihuahua Surveys His Halloween Kingdom Under the Orange Lights

Glowing orange bulbs swoop along the edge of the porch roof, and Peanut the fawn Chihuahua sits beneath them like a tiny lord surveying his Halloween kingdom. His oversized ears catch the light, his dark eyes glance off to one side and his little front paws are planted firmly on the weathered boards. Carved jack-o'-lanterns, plump orange pumpkins and a green watering can line the porch, a basket of pinecones sits beside him, and a pair of sneakers and a blue glove rest among the scattered maple leaves. The front door stands open behind him, framed by fake cobwebs.

Chihuahuas are the smallest recognized dog breed, but they often carry themselves with big confidence and loyalty. They tend to bond closely with one person and can be wary of strangers, which makes a night of nonstop doorbells and costumed visitors stressful for some. Because of their size, they feel the cold quickly in the fall, so a sweater can be helpful outdoors. Electrical string lights and cords should be kept out of chewing range, and outdoor decorations like pinecones, corn husks and small gourds can be choking hazards. A cozy bed indoors may be the best seat in the house when trick-or-treating gets going.

For now, Peanut seems to be enjoying the warm glow and the quiet before the crowds. He may be small, but he looks every bit the proud host of this festive porch.