A Shih Tzu Sat on the Garland-Lined Steps and Watched the Snow
The porch steps are lined with pine garland and sprinkled with snow, and a black and white Shih Tzu has taken a seat right in the middle. His long, silky ears fall around his face, his dark eyes look to the side, and a bit of snow clings to the railing beside him. Behind him, a glass-paned door glows with warm light, and the wooden house looks cozy and calm.
Shih Tzus are small dogs with long coats and short noses, and they feel the cold more than many breeds. They do best with brief outdoor trips in winter, and a sweater can help keep them warm. Long hair can also hold snow and ice, which clump between the toes and under the belly, so a quick towel-down helps afterward. Brushing every day keeps the coat tangle-free.
Porch decorations can be tempting, so watch the garland. Pine needles can irritate the mouth and stomach, and some greenery, like holly and mistletoe, is toxic to pets. Keep these plants out of reach, and use pet-safe decorations where he can get to them. This dog seems more interested in the view, sitting quietly and waiting for someone to open the door, the way a patient friend does on a snowy evening. A soft flurry drifts past his face, and he blinks, then settles back into his spot. Some dogs just know how to enjoy a quiet winter moment.
