Bear Climbed Into the Stocking and Decided It Was His Now
Only a small black face shows above a thick white knit cuff, the rest of the puppy tucked into a bright red cable-knit stocking. He is wrapped in a cream blanket, his big dark eyes are wide and watchful, and his floppy ears are still deciding which way to point. Behind him the room glows with lamplight, a window shows twinkling lights outside, and a half-finished puzzle and some pinecones sit scattered on the table.
German Shepherds are one of the most trainable dog breeds, and puppies like this one are often alert and attached to their family from the start. Their ears typically take a few months to stand up, so floppy ears at this age are completely normal. Early, gentle socialization matters a lot with the breed: meeting friendly people, hearing everyday household sounds, and trying new surfaces in small, positive steps. Because they are large dogs when grown, it is worth learning good leash manners while the puppy is still small enough to carry.
Right now, though, the only job on the schedule is staying warm. Puppies sleep a great deal, and a snug spot like this makes a very good bed. Let us call him Bear. He looks ready to nod off at any second, safe inside his woolly red hideout while the lights twinkle softly nearby. If stockings are meant to be filled with something wonderful, this one has already received the best gift.
