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A black and tan German Shepherd puppy lying on a red, blue and pink plaid blanket indoors, looking at the camera. 16 / 38

Forget the Picnic Basket. The Plaid Blanket Already Has the Main Attraction.

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Who needs a picnic basket when the blanket already has the main attraction? A black and tan German Shepherd puppy lies on a cheerful red, blue and pink plaid blanket, front paws stretched out and head tilted just enough to look irresistibly curious. One ear stands upright while the other folds over, the eyes are soft and warm, and the tan markings on the legs and face are starting to frame that dark saddle nicely. A woven basket stuffed with a gray throw sits in the background along with a pair of slippers, suggesting this particular picnic is taking place safely indoors.

Let's call him Ranger, because that alert expression suggests a dog who will one day patrol the whole yard. Picnics are a great training opportunity for young shepherds. Practicing a settle or down-stay on a familiar blanket at home makes it much easier to bring that behavior to a park later. Start with short sessions, reward calm behavior generously and slowly add distractions. Outdoors, keep human food out of reach, since common picnic items like onions, grapes, chocolate and cooked bones are not safe for dogs. Bring fresh water and a bowl, and pick a shady spot on warm days.

Bringing the blanket from home also gives a puppy something familiar in a new place, which can make the first park outings feel less overwhelming.

Ranger seems to have mastered the relaxing part already. The sandwiches can wait.

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