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A black and white Shih Tzu holds a clear glass ornament in its mouth beside a lit Christmas tree, with toys scattered nearby. 15 / 26

One Shiny Ornament Disappeared From the Tree. The Shih Tzu Was Close By.

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Mid-action and very pleased, a black and white Shih Tzu named Dumpling stands on his hind legs by the tree with a clear glass ornament in his mouth. His fluffy tail is curled up, his topknot is slightly tousled and his paws are planted on the carpet next to a scattering of toys, a pair of glasses and a coffee mug. The tree beside him glows with red balls and gold decorations, and sunlight fills the living room behind a gray couch.

The lowest branches of a Christmas tree sit at exactly the right height for a small dog, and shiny ornaments look like toys. Glass ornaments can shatter and cut a mouth or paws, and swallowing a piece can be dangerous, so place breakable ones higher and put sturdy, shatterproof decorations down low. If your dog picks one up, trade it for a treat rather than chasing him, which can turn the moment into a game. Shih Tzus are friendly, playful dogs that love attention, and they usually respond well to patient, gentle training. Keep an eye on the tree water and the lights too. If you think he swallowed any glass, call your vet right away.

Dumpling is clearly delighted with his find, and his confident stance says he knows he has done something clever. Every tree has one little thief, and every family has a story about it later.

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