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Three red and white Border Collie puppies rest in a deep pile of dry brown autumn leaves beside a garden hose. 17 / 31

Three Pups Disappeared Into a Pile of Fall Leaves

AI imageborder colliered and whiteautumn leaves

A drift of crisp brown leaves has collected beside the house, and three red and white Border Collie puppies have buried themselves in it up to their shoulders. Their white bibs and chestnut ears peek out of the pile, and each one faces a slightly different direction, as if they all heard separate sounds. A garden hose snakes along the concrete behind them and a green bucket waits by the wall.

Leaf piles are irresistible to puppies because they crunch, rustle and hide interesting smells. They are also worth a quick check before a dog dives in. Damp leaves can hide mold, sharp sticks, burrs or things like mushrooms that a curious pup might taste. After play, brush through the coat and look for leaves, burrs or ticks, especially around the ears and legs, and talk to your vet about tick prevention in your area.

This is also the season when Border Collies often feel extra frisky, because cool weather suits a breed with a thick double coat. A brisk walk or a game of fetch through the fallen leaves is a good way to burn off that energy. Puppies, of course, are happy to go a little faster than the grown-ups would like.

For now the three are perfectly still, which in puppy terms means a plan is being formed. The leaves are about to fly.

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