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A curly chocolate Poodle sits on a wooden floor next to a torn teddy bear with stuffing spilling out. 5 / 38

A Chocolate Poodle Sits Next to the Teddy Bear and Won't Say a Word

AI imagepoodleteddy bearliving room

Fluffy white stuffing is spilling from a teddy bear's belly, and Cocoa the chocolate Poodle sits close beside him with soft brown curls and a very serious face. The bear's arms are frayed and one ear has been nibbled, and tufts of filling are scattered across the wooden floor like snow. Behind them, a cozy living room holds an armchair, a woven basket and a knit blanket in warm light. Cocoa's dark eyes look sideways, as if she hopes the bear will explain things himself.

Poodles are among the smartest dog breeds, and they are athletic, eager to please and surprisingly goofy. They come in standard, miniature and toy sizes, and their curly coats do not shed much but do need regular brushing and grooming to prevent mats. Because they are so clever, bored Poodles can invent their own projects, and tearing apart a plush toy is a classic. Dogs often rip toys because it satisfies a hunting instinct, and the squeaker or stuffing feels like a reward. Look for sturdy toys sized for your dog, check them regularly for damage, and take away any that are torn so stuffing and small parts are not swallowed. If your dog swallows stuffing or fabric, talk to your vet. Puzzle toys and short training sessions give a clever dog a better job.

Cocoa will get a replacement bear, and this one may get a quiet retirement. It was a good run for a soft friend.

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