Three Shepherd Puppies Spotted a Butterfly and Gave Chase
Three black and tan puppies are caught in mid-stride across a green lawn, noses pointing toward the sky. Up near the corner of the house, a small orange butterfly flutters past a bush, and all three have noticed. The pup in front leans toward it with a bright open mouth, while the other two follow with floppy ears bouncing.
Puppies chase moving things because their prey drive and curiosity are strong, and German Shepherds, bred for herding, tend to be especially alert to movement. This is a great opportunity for fun, but it is also worth building a reliable recall. Practice calling your puppy's name and rewarding her for coming, starting in a fenced or safe area and keeping her on a leash near roads.
Watch out for stinging insects too. Puppies who snap at bees or wasps can get stung on the mouth or face, which can be painful and, in some cases, dangerous if swelling occurs. Call your vet if you see significant swelling or trouble breathing. Butterflies are harmless, so chasing them is generally just good exercise and a lesson in coordination.
The butterfly will probably drift away without a care in the world. The three puppies, meanwhile, will keep the chase going until they run out of breath. Chasing a flutter of wings is excellent practice for the speed and balance these growing pups will need.
