An Australian Shepherd Keeps the Glowing Pumpkin Company at Dusk

Dusk has settled over the porch, and a black tricolor Australian Shepherd sits beside a glowing jack-o'-lantern that flickers orange against the shadows. His fur is a rich blend of black, white and copper, with warm brown eyes and tan eyebrows that give him an expressive, thoughtful face. Fallen leaves cover the steps, and a pot of purple mums stands by the door behind him.

Australian Shepherds are active, intelligent herding dogs, and they thrive when they have a job. Many enjoy agility, long hikes and puzzle games, and they often keep a close eye on their family members, sometimes trying to herd kids or other pets. Their thick coat needs regular brushing, especially in shedding season, and their mental energy is just as important to satisfy as their physical energy.

A lit jack-o'-lantern is part of the Halloween picture, but real candles in a pumpkin are a risk around wagging tails and curious noses. Battery-operated lights are a safer choice, and any real flame should be well out of a dog's reach and never left unattended. It is also wise to keep carved pumpkins from the dog's mouth, since they can get moldy outside.

We will call him Ember, which matches the glow. He seems to be keeping the pumpkin company in the quiet of the evening. It is a lovely moment before the trick-or-treaters arrive and the doorbell starts ringing.