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A blue merle Australian Shepherd lies on a wood floor tangled in strings of Christmas lights. 3 / 25

The Aussie Wore the Christmas Lights Instead of the Tree

AI imageaustralian shepherdchristmastree lights

A blue merle Australian Shepherd lies on the floor in a pool of glowing string lights. The strand has wrapped around her legs and spills across the boards, and the dog looks straight ahead with pale blue-and-brown eyes and a calm, patient expression. A basket of toys, a sofa with a gray blanket and a decorated tree in the corner show that this living room is in the middle of a holiday setup.

Christmas lights are a classic hazard for pets. Dogs can chew cords and get shocked, and a long strand can tangle around legs or necks. Keep cords out of reach where possible, use cord covers, and unplug lights when you aren't home. If your dog chews on a cord and has burns around the mouth, or if she seems unwell, call your vet right away.

Australian Shepherds are intelligent, energetic herding dogs that love to work and play. Because they are so smart, they can get bored quickly and invent their own jobs, such as rounding up family members or investigating a new decoration. They do well with training, puzzle toys and daily exercise. The merle coat, with its blue-gray swirls, needs regular brushing, especially in shedding season.

Right now, she seems more patient than panicked. A gentle untangling and a belly rub will make the world right again, and the lights can be hung a little higher.

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