A Black Lab Puppy Sat Perfectly Still in the Middle of the Presents
A black Lab puppy sits very straight among a pile of presents, head slightly lowered, brown eyes turned up as though waiting for permission. Wrapped gifts in kraft paper, green paper, and red plaid are tied with twine and tiny sprigs of pine. Behind him, the Christmas tree is dressed in warm white lights, pinecones, and wooden star ornaments, and a couch with a knit blanket, a lamp, a mug, and a pair of glasses fills out the cozy room. Let's call him Midnight. He is being the very best boy for the moment.
Labrador puppies are famously friendly and eager to please, and they tend to be quick learners when training is fun and rewarding. They're also famously mouthy, since they are retrievers by nature and love to carry things around. That makes a gift pile especially tempting. Teach a simple sit and leave it early, and reward him with a toy of his own when he does. Labs also love food, so check that gifts with edible treats are kept out of his reach.
Gifts under the tree can hide hazards for a puppy. Chocolate, candy, and baked goods are dangerous for dogs, and so are wrapped gifts that contain xylitol-sweetened items like gum or mints. Ribbons and twine can cause problems if swallowed, and pine and fir branches left as decoration can upset a stomach. Place anything edible high up, and keep an eye on the puppy near the tree. Ask your vet if you have any questions about holiday dangers.
Midnight sits tall, his eyes full of hope, and his gift pile glowing in the lights. It is hard to tell who's guarding the presents and who's waiting for one.
