The Turkey Hadn't Even Been Carved When a Boxer Puppy Took His Place
From his seat at the corner of the table, a tawny Boxer puppy gazes toward the golden roast turkey as if he has been hypnotized. His ears are folded, his dark muzzle is pointed at the platter and his front paws are neatly together. Cloth napkins, a pepper mill, dishes of cranberries and rolls and a scattering of herbs make the table a feast, and sunlight pours in through the window above the kitchen counter.
Cooked turkey bones are a real danger for dogs because they can splinter and cause choking or damage to the digestive tract, so keep the carcass and trimmings in a closed bin outside the reach of curious noses. Skin and drippings are very fatty and can lead to an upset stomach or serious pancreas problems in some dogs, so they are best left on the platter. A small piece of plain, boneless, unseasoned turkey is usually fine as a treat. Boxers are playful, energetic and affectionate, and they are known to stay puppy-like for years. Plenty of exercise before the big meal can help a bouncy young dog settle down while the family eats.
The puppy has done everything right, sitting politely and waiting his turn. If good manners earned dinner rolls, he would already be first in line, and it is hard not to smile at someone who is hoping so very hard and being so well behaved about it.
