A Schnauzer Disappeared Into the Leaf Pile and Popped Back Up Serious

A salt and pepper Miniature Schnauzer is up to his elbows in leaves. He sits in a deep pile of orange, yellow, and brown, with three little pumpkins arranged nearby, and gazes up with those famous bushy eyebrows and a beard full of fall color. His ears fold forward, his dark eyes are bright, and his mouth is slightly open, as if he is about to say something very important about leaves. Behind him are the sidewalk and the side of a house. Let's call him Mortimer.

Miniature Schnauzers are sturdy, smart terriers that were originally bred as farm dogs to catch rats. They are energetic, alert, and often very vocal, with a strong bond to their family. That wiry coat sheds little but needs regular grooming, including trimming and brushing, to keep it healthy, and the beard needs wiping after meals. They also do well with training that challenges their minds, since they're quick learners who can get bored.

Leaf piles are one of fall's great pleasures for dogs, and a few precautions keep the fun safe. Check the pile for sharp sticks, thorny seeds, and anything damp or moldy, which can irritate his nose or upset his stomach if eaten. Look for ticks and burrs afterward, since a wiry coat can hide them. Be careful with acorns and some fall mushrooms, which can be harmful if swallowed, and talk to your vet if you think he ate something suspicious.

Mortimer settles in as if the leaves had been raked just for him. He has the look of a dog who has found the best spot in the yard.