Five Chocolate Lab Puppies Slept in a Heap Under the Christmas Tree

Under the glow of tiny tree lights and glass ornaments, five chocolate brown Labrador Retriever puppies sleep in one warm heap. Their coats are the color of dark cocoa, their paws are curled and their chins rest on one another's backs. A few pinecones and baubles hang just above them, and a soft gray carpet makes a perfect bed.

A Christmas tree is exciting for a puppy, so a little planning keeps the season safe. Labs are famous for eating things they shouldn't, so keep tinsel, ribbons, glass ornaments and edible decorations out of reach. Tree water can contain additives or bacteria, so cover the base. Hide electrical cords or use a cord cover, and don't leave lit candles where a tail can sweep them. Some holiday plants, including poinsettia and mistletoe, can upset a dog's stomach, and chocolate, raisins and rich leftovers are dangerous for dogs. A puppy pen or gate around the tree gives a Lab time to settle down while keeping everything safe. If a puppy swallows something that might be harmful, call your vet right away.

Tonight, the only thing moving is the twinkle of the lights. Five sleeping puppies are the best decoration this tree could have, and the room feels warm and peaceful because of them. When morning comes there will be a whole new kind of excitement, but for now the tree belongs to the sleepers.