A Corgi Puppy Locks Eyes With a Tennis Ball and Does Not Blink
Down on its elbows with a rear end that is practically in the air, a red and white Corgi puppy stares at a bright green tennis ball just inches from its nose. The ears flop outward, the pink tongue peeks from a slightly open mouth, and the eyes are locked in with total focus. In the soft light behind, a stuffed dinosaur sits on the floor, a woven basket and a plant wait in the corner, and a gray blanket is draped over the couch.
That crouch is the classic play bow's cousin, a pose that dogs use to say they are ready for fun. Corgis are bright, quick, and ball-obsessed, and many of them enjoy a game of fetch or chase. Because they are small and low to the ground, short games on a soft surface are a good fit, and it is wise to avoid sharp turns or high jumps while they are growing.
Tennis balls are fun, but they come with a few cautions. Puppies can chew the fuzzy covering, which can wear down teeth and be swallowed, and a ball that is small enough to fit in the back of a dog's throat can be a choking hazard. Choose a ball that is large enough, supervise play, and put it away when the game is over. If you are unsure, your vet can recommend good toys.
This puppy looks determined to win the staring contest. The ball is not moving, the room is quiet, and in a moment there will be a pounce. The only question is which of them will blink first.
