A Fluffy White Samoyed Took the Seat of Honor in the Pumpkin Wagon

Snow-white fur and a pumpkin-orange backdrop make this scene look like a postcard. A Samoyed sits upright in an old wooden wagon, surrounded by pumpkins of every size and sprinkled with dried leaves. His ears are pricked, his dark eyes calm, and his thick coat is fluffed like a cloud. Behind him are porch rails and pots of orange mums.

Samoyeds are a northern breed originally used for herding and pulling sleds, and they are famous for their thick double coat and the upturned mouth that looks like a smile. They are generally friendly, social and energetic, and they tend to do best when they have company, exercise and plenty of attention. Their coat sheds heavily, so regular brushing helps.

Fall is a lovely season for dogs, and pumpkins are a safe prop. Plain, cooked pumpkin is sometimes used as a snack, but carved pumpkins that have been sitting out, along with candles inside them, are not good for dogs. A heavy-coated breed such as a Samoyed can also get too warm in a sunny spot, so provide shade and water, and talk to your vet about anything food-related.

For now the Samoyed sits like a king on his harvest throne. The pumpkins have never looked so good, and he knows it. A little cool autumn breeze ruffles his fur, and he doesn't seem to mind one bit.