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A black Labrador Retriever sits among spilled boxes and ornaments, wrapped in a string of warm white Christmas lights. 6 / 22

The Lights Were for the Tree. The Black Lab Wore Them Instead.

AI imageblack labradorchristmastree lights

The lights are meant for the tree, but this black Labrador has put them to better use. Strands of tiny warm lights are wound around his chest and front legs, and he sits very still among cardboard boxes and scattered ornaments, looking straight ahead with soft brown eyes. Behind him, the Christmas tree glows, and a coffee table, slippers, and a pile of throws make the room comfortable and a little messy.

A string of lights is more than a decoration for a curious pet. Chewing on cords can cause burns or electric shock, and wrapped wires can restrict movement. Unplug lights when you are away and make sure cords are tucked out of reach. If a dog gets tangled, stay calm, unplug the strand, and carefully free him. If you suspect he has chewed any wire, call your vet right away.

Labrador Retrievers are friendly, eager dogs known for loving company and for putting nearly everything in their mouths. They often stay puppy-like for years, so extra supervision around the holidays is a good idea. A lab who looks this calm may well be saying he has done nothing wrong at all. His patient expression and gentle eyes seem to say he was just helping with the decorating, and honestly, he looks quite lovely in the glow. He thumps his tail once against the floor, and the lights twinkle along with it. It might take a while to untangle him, but nobody seems to be in a hurry.

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