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A red merle Australian Shepherd covered in white paint sits beside a tipped-over paint can with paint on the floor. 10 / 38

A Red Merle Aussie Decided to Help With the Painting

AI imageaustralian shepherdpainthome project

White paint is everywhere: splashed across the floor, dotted on the walls and daubed across Ember the red merle Australian Shepherd's face, chest and ears. A silver paint can lies on its side next to her, a pool of white spreading beneath. Her amber eyes glow, and she wears a small, hopeful smile as if she believes she has done a nice renovation. Behind her stands a wicker basket and a pile of shoes against a pale wall, which now looks like it needs a second coat.

Aussies are bright, active and people-focused, and their thick coats and marbled colors make them easy to spot. They are also known as hard-working dogs that like having a job. A dog with nothing to do may invent one, such as helping with painting. Paint is a real hazard, because many paints contain chemicals that are toxic to dogs, and licking it off the fur can be harmful. If your dog gets paint on its coat, do not use solvents to remove it. Call your vet or a pet poison hotline for advice, since some paints are more dangerous than others. During home projects, keep your dog in a separate room or outside the work area and store cans with tight lids. Aussies do best with regular exercise and training.

Ember will need a long, careful cleanup and a safe place to wait. At least the walls and her smile match.

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