A Giant Newfoundland Dressed as a Pumpkin and Took the Whole Stoop

There is a lot of dog under that pumpkin. A huge black Newfoundland sits on the front stoop in an orange quilted hood topped with a green stem and leaves, and a matching vest that wraps around his broad chest. His brown eyes look out with deep, gentle calm, his thick coat fluffs around the costume, and his big black paws rest on the concrete. Beside him a pot of peachy mums blooms, a plaid chair stands near a door with rubber boots, and gray clouds hang over the porch rail. Let's call him Gourd. He wears the costume with great dignity.

Newfoundlands are famous for their sweet, patient temperament and their water rescue ability. They have webbed feet, a thick water-resistant coat, and a strong swimming instinct, and they are often called nanny dogs for their gentleness with children. They are big, often well over a hundred pounds, and they drool, so a towel is part of life. They are sensitive to heat because of their dense coat, so keep him cool, with shade and water.

For a dog with a thick coat, even a light costume can add warmth, so keep dress-up short and avoid warm days. Check that the hood doesn't block his vision or hearing, and that the vest allows his shoulders to move freely and doesn't press on his chest. Big dogs can slip or stumble if something hangs down near the feet, so keep it snug without being tight. If he pants, tries to scratch it off, or seems upset, take it off at once, and offer a treat.

Gourd sits calm and sweet, a very large pumpkin with a very kind face. The doorstep has never looked so full.