A Newfoundland Puppy Found One Green Bean and Stopped Cold
A single green bean lies on the wooden floor, and a very large, very fluffy black Newfoundland puppy has found it. He stands on a woven rug with his head lowered and his round brown eyes fixed on the prize, his thick coat looking like a cloud of soot. Behind him the dining table is dressed for dinner, with a glass, a bowl of cranberries, and folded cloth napkins. A plaid blanket drapes over a chair in the far background, and the house is lit with the soft gold of late afternoon.
Newfoundlands are gentle, patient giants known for their sweet temperament and love of water, and even as puppies they are sizable. They grow quickly and have thick double coats that need regular brushing, especially in the warm months. Plain, cooked green beans without butter or seasoning are generally safe for dogs in small amounts, and some owners use them as a low-calorie treat, but it is wise to check with your vet first, particularly for a growing puppy. Dropped food at a big dinner is another matter, since seasoned dishes with onions, garlic, or rich sauces can upset a dog's stomach, so it is best to sweep the floor promptly.
He stares at the bean with the seriousness of a scientist studying a new discovery. One small vegetable on the floor has become the most interesting event of the evening.
