A Maltese Sat Beside a Snowman and the Two Looked Alike

White fur meets white snow in this winter scene, and the only way to tell them apart is by the dark eyes and black nose. The Maltese sits on the snowy lawn, head turned toward a snowman with a grey knit hat and a red plaid scarf. A tiny orange carrot nose and dark button eyes complete the snowman's face. Behind them, a wooden house glows with a warm lantern, a wreath hangs on the door, and evergreen bushes are dusted with snow. The air looks cold and quiet.

Maltese are small, silky-coated dogs that feel the cold quickly, and snow clings to their long fur, forming icy clumps. Keep winter outings short, dry your dog thoroughly afterward, and brush out damp snowballs to prevent matting. A coat or sweater may help on a chilly day. Check the paws for ice between the pads, and wipe away any salt or de-icing products, which can irritate the skin and upset the stomach if licked. If your dog is shivering, lifting paws, or hesitating to walk, it's time to head indoors and warm up with a soft towel. Your vet can advise on winter care.

We could call him Frosty, though the snowman might feel left out. The two of them sit side by side, one made of snow and one made of fluff, and each looks perfectly pleased with the company. Winter evenings seem warmer with a friend like that.