Two Black Lab Puppies Sat in the Autumn Leaves and Looked Up

Two black Labrador Retriever puppies sit side by side in a thick carpet of orange, red and yellow leaves, looking up at the camera with curious faces. Their coats are shiny black, their ears fold forward and their eyes are bright. A weathered house with a blue door, a fence and bare branches form the autumn backdrop behind them.

Black Labs look striking in autumn, and fall can be a wonderful time for puppy adventures. Leaves are full of new smells and sounds, and Labs, being natural retrievers, love to pick things up. They may try to carry a stick or leaf, but keep an eye on what ends up in their mouths. Sticks can splinter, wet leaves may carry mold, and mushrooms that grow after rain can be poisonous. Cool weather is easier on Labs, who can overheat in summer, but they still need water and rest. Check their coats for burrs, ticks and debris after outdoor play. Short walks and gentle games are best for puppies, since their joints are still growing. Ask your vet about the right amount of exercise at each age.

These two are focused and serious. Autumn has arrived, and the leaves are waiting to be explored. Soon there will be crunching, rolling and sniffing, and two black puppies who look like they have been dusted with gold.