A Bernese Wrapped in an Orange Blanket Kept One Eye on the Pie

Wrapped like a burrito in a chunky orange blanket, a tricolor Bernese Mountain Dog sits in the kitchen with his head turned toward the counter. His black coat, rust-colored cheeks, and white chest stand out against the knit, and one big white-tipped paw peeks out near the front. On the counter, a golden pumpkin pie sits near a fork, a folded towel, sunglasses and keys, with a tiny ghost figure and a pumpkin by the window. A tote bag and cupboards fill the corner. Let's call him Bear. He has smelled the pie, and the whole kitchen knows it.

Bernese Mountain Dogs are large, gentle, and affectionate dogs from Switzerland, originally used as farm dogs. They're calm and loyal, and they love to be near their families, but they don't always do well in hot weather because of their thick coats. Their lifespan tends to be shorter than that of many breeds, so regular vet visits and a healthy weight are important. They also shed heavily, and regular brushing keeps their fur manageable.

Pumpkin pie smells wonderful to a dog, but a baked pie is not for him. It contains sugar, butter, and spices like nutmeg that can upset a dog's stomach, and nutmeg in large amounts is harmful. Plain canned pumpkin without sugar or spices is a different thing, and vets sometimes recommend small amounts for digestive support, but ask your vet first. Keep pies well back from the counter's edge, especially with big dogs who can reach easily, and let the pie cool somewhere a nose can't get to.

Bear sits snug in his blanket, nose pointed at the counter. For a big, patient dog, a warm wrap and a good smell are a fine fall afternoon.