A Miniature Schnauzer Became the Most Serious Elf on the Block
A black and silver Miniature Schnauzer is dressed as an elf: a green and red pointed hat with a jingle bell, and a green collar with another little bell at the throat. His eyebrows and beard are full and gray, and his dark eyes look straight into the camera with a mixture of patience and mild suspicion. A mantel with garland and framed photos shines in the background, and a couch with a plaid pillow waits behind him.
Miniature Schnauzers are small, sturdy, intelligent dogs, known for their distinctive beards and lively, alert personalities. They often make good watchdogs and enjoy being involved with the family. They also have wiry coats that need regular grooming and trimming, and their beards tend to hold food and water. Costumes are fun for a quick moment, but check that nothing blocks vision, hearing, or breathing. Bells are a hazard, too, since small parts can be chewed off and swallowed. Reward him with a treat, take off the outfit soon, and watch for signs he has had enough, such as lip licking, yawning, or trying to shake it off.
Schnauzers tend to stay calm when they trust their people, which is probably why he is sitting so still.
The elf outfit may not be his idea, but he wears it with great dignity. A tiny bell tinkles whenever he shifts, which is probably the only sound he is willing to make about the whole affair.
