The Gardener Left for a Minute. The Golden Retriever Took Over the Flower Bed.
Somebody's flower bed has been completely rearranged, and a golden retriever sits at the center of what used to be a tidy row of plants. Dark soil is heaped in uneven mounds, a plant lies on its side with its roots exposed, and a clay pot has tipped over by the fence. The dog's ears are pulled back and his brown nose is dusted with dirt. A garden glove and a blue watering can sit nearby, as if the gardener walked away mid-job and left the dog to take over.
Digging is natural for many dogs. They might dig to cool off, to chase a smell, to hide a favorite toy, or simply because it is fun. Golden retrievers are friendly and eager to please, but they are also active and need plenty of exercise to stay happy. Giving a dog a designated digging spot, such as a sandbox with buried treats, can save the garden. Some garden plants and fertilizers can be harmful to dogs, so it is smart to check what is growing before letting a dog dig freely, and to call your vet if he chews anything unusual.
He is waiting, in his gentle way, for forgiveness. The flowers may not recover quickly, but his sweet face will probably be forgiven first. After a bath and a long drink of water, he will likely be back to guarding the garden like nothing ever happened.
