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A brindle Shih Tzu with a small underbite sits next to a lined notebook whose pages are shredded and torn. 11 / 22

So the Old Homework Excuse Turns Out to Be True After All

AI imageshih tzucaught in the acthomework

So the old excuse turns out to be true after all. A brindle Shih Tzu with a shaggy brown and black coat sits on the living room floor, gazing up with shiny dark eyes and the tiniest underbite grin. Right beside him lies a spiral notebook of lined paper, its pages chewed, curled, and torn into ragged layers. Not a single sentence of homework looks salvageable. In the soft-focus background, a gray couch with a knit throw, a potted plant, and a pair of slippers make up an otherwise tidy room.

Shih Tzus were bred for centuries as companion dogs, and they are generally affectionate, playful, and people-focused. Like all dogs, though, they need outlets for natural chewing urges. Puppies chew to soothe teething gums, while adult dogs may chew out of boredom, frustration, or anxiety when left alone. Paper is tempting because it is easy to shred and smells like their people. Offering safe chew toys, rotating them to keep things interesting, and making sure your dog gets enough play and attention can reduce destructive chewing. If chewing seems linked to stress when you leave, your vet or a trainer can help.

This little fellow, however, does not appear stressed in the least. If anything, he seems proud of his paper sculpture, and that small, crooked smile suggests he would happily help with the next assignment, too.

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