Rex Rolled Over in the Snow, and Look What He Left Behind

Wiggling happily on his back with all four legs in the air, the German Shepherd puppy has carved out a wide, swirling circle in the fresh snow. His sable coat is thick and fluffy, his big ears flop out to each side, and he's looking at the camera upside down with a gleeful expression. Beyond him, the yard is full of everyday things like a blue bucket, a fence, and a woodpile, all dusted with white. The swirl marks around him look like the wings of a very wobbly angel, wide and sweeping where his legs kicked.

Rolling in snow is a joyful behavior and also a way for dogs to scratch their backs and spread scents. German Shepherds have a dense double coat that serves them well in winter, but puppies still need breaks and a place to warm up. They are intelligent, loyal, and eager to learn, which means a snowy afternoon is also a wonderful moment for short training games like sit, stay, and come.

Large breeds like Shepherds grow quickly, and puppies shouldn't be pushed into long, strenuous exercise. Short bursts of play with plenty of rest protect their developing joints. Your vet can tell you how much exercise is right for your puppy's age and size. A towel rub afterward is always welcome, and Shepherd puppies tend to love the attention that comes with it.

We'll name him Rex. His snow angel isn't a perfect one, but it has the one feature that counts: it's covered in wiggles.