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A black and tan German Shepherd puppy with bits of straw on its head exploring a vegetable garden with kale and carrots. 30 / 38

The Gardener Stepped Away for a Minute. The Straw in His Fur Tells the Rest.

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Bits of straw stuck in his fur reveal exactly where this puppy has been. A black and tan German Shepherd pup is nosing his way through a backyard vegetable garden, head low and floppy ears tipped forward, tracking some fascinating scent between rows of kale and feathery carrot tops. Raised wooden beds, a gray watering can, a pair of work gloves and a toppled clay pot dot the background, giving the impression that the gardener stepped away for just a minute too long.

German Shepherds have excellent noses, which is one reason they are widely used in detection and search work. Even a young puppy will spend long stretches following smells, and sniffing is a genuinely enriching activity that tires the brain as well as the body. Gardens, however, can hold hazards. Onions, garlic, chives and leeks are toxic to dogs, and some fertilizers, slug baits and mulches can be dangerous if eaten. Fencing off edible beds or creating a dog-friendly digging zone elsewhere can save both your plants and your puppy. If you think your dog has eaten something harmful, contact your vet right away.

Scent games are a great way to channel that natural curiosity safely. Hiding treats around the yard and letting your pup search is simple and fun.

This garden detective may have found nothing more than dirt so far, but he is clearly enjoying the investigation.

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