The Cocoa Was Still Hot, and a Small Shiba Was Already Interested
A steaming mug of cocoa, topped with melting marshmallows, sits on the coffee table, and a black and tan Shiba Inu puppy is sitting very close to it. His ears are up, his small fox-like face is turned slightly away as if he is only pretending not to notice, and his eyes tell a different story. Garland and soft lights glow in the background, with a plaid blanket on the couch and pine cones scattered on the table.
Cocoa is a human treat that dogs should not share. Chocolate contains theobromine, which dogs process poorly, and marshmallows and sweeteners add sugar or ingredients that are not good for them. Keep mugs away from the edge of the table and wipe up spills quickly, then offer your puppy something safe like a chew or a lick mat. Shiba Inus are small, alert and independent, often described as catlike in their cleanliness and aloofness. They can be strong-willed, so patient, reward-based training and early socialization go a long way. If your dog does drink chocolate, call your vet or poison control without delay.
The cocoa will cool and the marshmallows will melt, but the puppy's perfect posture is likely to stay put. It is a snug winter evening with one very well-behaved suspect and a cup that still belongs to somebody else.
