The Turkey Was in the Oven and a Poodle Puppy Was on Guard
An apricot Poodle puppy sits right in front of the oven, nose pointed at the window where a golden turkey roasts on a rack among carrots and herbs. His curly fur looks like a cloud of caramel, his dark eyes are wide, and his whole body leans toward the heat and the delicious smell. Onions, garlic and a dish towel sit on the counter beside him.
Poodles are among the smartest dog breeds, and they are also friendly, eager and often very food-motivated. They come in several sizes and tend to be quick learners who enjoy training. Their curly coats need regular grooming, and puppies do best with early, positive training to learn manners around busy kitchens.
A kitchen full of holiday smells is exciting for a puppy, but an open oven door or a hot pan can cause serious burns. Teach him to stay away from the stove, and keep him in another room if it is too busy. Cooked turkey bones can splinter, and fatty skin, gravy, onions and garlic can upset his stomach or worse. Offer a dog-safe chew and ask your vet before sharing any people food.
He watches with polite patience, as though the turkey might notice his good manners and offer him a slice. For the moment, the oven door stays closed, and his dream stays alive.
