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A black tricolor Australian Shepherd sits on a paw-print patterned bedspread in a cozy bedroom with lamplight. 23 / 27

He Came Back From the Yard and Went Straight to the Bed

AI imageaustralian shepherdmuddy pawsbedroom

The bedspread is decorated with a pattern of brown paw prints, and some of them look a little too fresh. A black tricolor Australian Shepherd with white chest and copper cheeks sits upright in the center, ears relaxed and mouth in a tiny smile. A bedside lamp glows warmly, and a basket of clothes sits in the shadows. It is clearly bedtime, and he has decided to get into bed first.

Australian Shepherds are lively and affectionate herding dogs, and they tend to stay close to their people. They are often happiest when they have jobs, like fetch, agility, hiking or learning new tricks, and are less happy when they are left with nothing to do. After a muddy walk, a quick wipe of the paws at the door with a towel keeps dirt off furniture, and a washable blanket on the bed saves time later. A bathroom mat or a basin near the door can make this a routine.

Many dogs also love to sleep on the owner's bed because it smells like family and feels safe. If you would rather keep the bed clear, give him a comfy bed of his own nearby with a favorite blanket, and reward him for using it.

He looks pleased as can be, and not even a little sorry about the dirt. In his view, the pawprints are a kind of signature.

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