Ember Curled Up in a Red Blanket and Slept Right Through It All
Curled into a neat black and white ball, the Border Collie has found the perfect bed: a thick red cable-knit blanket spread out at the foot of a tree. His nose is tucked toward his chest, one white paw is crossed over the other, and his eyes are closed in total peace. Behind him, evergreen garland drapes along the porch rail and a wreath hangs on the dark blue door. The bark of the tree trunk at the edge of the frame and a few fallen leaves tell us this is a quiet, outdoor corner of the porch.
Border Collies are known for boundless energy and sharp minds, which makes quiet naps a satisfying sight. A tired collie is usually a collie who's had enough exercise and mental work, like training games, puzzle feeders, and walks with new smells. Without enough activity, many herding dogs get restless and may turn to destructive habits, so an active day makes for a calm evening.
If your dog sleeps outside or on a porch, remember that cold weather can be hard on even thick-coated dogs. Make sure he has shelter and a dry, insulated bed, and bring him in when temperatures dip. Your vet can advise how much cold your dog can safely handle, based on age, coat, and health. Even a quick check with your hand will tell you if his bed feels damp or cold.
We'll call him Ember. He has worked hard all day, and the red blanket is just the right reward for a job well done.
