The Beagle Puppy Pressed His Nose to a Tennis Ball and Forgot Everything Else

With his nose pressed right against a tennis ball, a tricolor Beagle puppy is completely absorbed in the game. His glossy black back, tan face and white paws catch the sunlight on the hardwood floor, and his oversized ears are folded forward as he mouths the fuzzy surface. A woven rug, a knotted rope toy and a cardboard box sit nearby, and there is a sneaker lying in the background. Nothing exists for him but the ball.

A Beagle's nose is its superpower, and balls, toys and treats all carry interesting smells. Scent games are great for this breed: try hiding a toy or a few kibbles in a room and let your puppy hunt for them. These games tire a puppy's brain as well as its body, which can calm a lot of restless energy. Choose a ball that is large enough that it cannot lodge in the throat, and replace toys that start to crumble.

Young puppies play in short bursts, so keep sessions brief and give plenty of rest between rounds. Watch the ball for shredded fuzz, which should not be swallowed.

He may be small now, but the single-minded focus is already fully grown. The tennis ball does not stand a chance. Give it five minutes and the ball will be across the room, with a small tricolor streak chasing after it at full speed, ears flying.