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Golden Retrievers are one of the most beloved dog breeds on earth, but they're also one of the most emotionally transparent. They don't know how to hide a feeling. If they are happy, everyone knows. If they are worried, the whole house knows. And if one of their favorite beings disappears for a day, they are not going to suddenly become mysterious and stoic about it. That is just not their brand.

This video proves it in about 10 seconds.

Love and cuddles are the best medicine 🥹❤️

It starts on a home security camera with Maple in the living room, clearly upset and whining. The caption explains that this was the day Daisy went to the emergency vet, and Maple spent that time looking everywhere for her big sister. That detail alone is enough to get you, because the searching feels so familiar to anyone who has ever watched a bonded dog try to make sense of an absence.

You can tell Maple knows something is wrong.

Not in some abstract, dramatic movie way. In a very specific, very dog way of pacing through the space where life normally makes sense and finding one piece missing.

Maple isn't just vocalizing for attention. She looks unsettled. She looks like she's checking, listening, and trying to solve a problem she doesn't have the tools to solve. One commenter put it beautifully: “Dogs howl to help the ‘lost’ one find its way back to their home 🥹.” That isn't a scientific explanation, exactly, but emotionally it feels dead on.

And then Daisy comes home.

Cone on. Safe. Back where she belongs.

The second half of the video is the emotional release valve, because now Maple can stop searching and start being OK again. The reunion isn't huge and chaotic in a sitcom way. It's better than that. It's relief. The kind that softens your whole body when the thing you were afraid of suddenly ends.

That is why clips like this hit so hard. Yes, they are sad. But they're also proof of something lovely and enormous: These dogs are attached in a real, daily, embodied way. Daisy’s absence disrupted Maple’s world. Daisy’s return repaired it.

And maybe that's why this one lingers.

Not because it's heartbreaking, though it is.

Because it is heartbreak with a homecoming.

Dogs often become deeply attached to the other animals in their home, especially when they share routines, sleep spaces, and daily companionship. When one dog suddenly disappears, even for something temporary like a vet visit, the pup left behind may show signs of stress, such as whining, pacing, searching, or howling. The AKC explains that lonely or anxious dogs may howl to request company or assistance.

So Maple’s reaction is not “too much.” It's exactly the kind of response you would expect from a bonded dog whose sister vanished from the normal rhythm of the day. 

Some reunions are loud, some are wiggly, and some are just one worried heart finally settling back into place.

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Related: Golden Retriever's Cute Confusion Over an Earthworm Is Cracking People Up

With so many cool, calm, and collected dogs just walking around like they own the place, it takes a real presence to stop traffic. I'm talking about the most confident pups whose aura reads charismatic and self-assured without trying. Not many can pull off something so effortlessly.

King Theodore didn't earn his name by blending in. This long-haired Pit Bull and his epic, rare mane are giving Dog the Bounty Hunter energy all day long. Wait until you see this boy's long, flowing locks blowing in the wind!

Very rare Pitt-Lion 🦁

As a "very rare Pitt-Lion," Theo's suave look happened via a rare recessive genetic mutation, the FGF5 gene. It's inherited from both parents (one from each), and it controls hair growth.

Not all of them get the full Dog the Bounty Hunter look—and there aren't a lot of these cuties around, but that's OK because King Theo is our newest fearless leader.

The fluffy-haired boy and his equally woolly sister Rosie are instantly recognizable with their mohawk/mullet-styled hair, but also the fluffiest ears in all the land. But wait—there's more!

Related: Sweet Pit Bull Raised by Cats Is Obsessed With Tiny Beds Just Like Them in Cute Clip

Despite standing out in a crowd, Theo is just a good boy who happens to sometimes look like a hyena, other times a lion, and every now and then, a majestic beast who commands attention without ever saying a word. Respect!

Take another 11 seconds out of your day and breathe while watching Theo's crimped ear hair gently glide with the wind. I dare you not to feel at least a little happier and a lot more at peace. If it doesn't help, watch it four more times!

Click here to watch the video.

Dogs like Theo and Rosie are so rare, they're considered "one in a million," which is probably why I've never seen a pup like them before! Often mistaken for mixed breeds, they're 100% Pit Bull Terrier or American Staffordshire Terrier, with the added bonus of some envy-worthy locks.

As one obsessed fan put it, "He truly is the most unbothered being I’ve ever seen! Epic just epic. He [is] so feeling himself!" There's no one else like Theo—not even Dog the Bounty Hunter!

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Traveling with your dog can feel like a balancing act—but one state is making it a whole lot easier. California just claimed the top spot for dog-friendly travel, offering pet parents more choice (and better stays) than anywhere else in the country.

According to research conducted by dog safety gate company Dog-G8, the Golden State offers 1,494 pet-friendly properties, with 1,185 rated four stars or higher—the highest number of top-rated stays in the country. Because when it comes to actually enjoying a trip with your dog, it’s not just about whether pets are allowed—it’s about how many options you have, and how good those options actually are.

Related: Golden Retriever Puppy Sees First Sunrise and Realizes How Big the World Is

"California is ranked the highest because it gives dog owners what they need most when traveling, choice. A high number of pet-friendly stays means owners are less likely to compromise on location, quality, or suitability, which can make a huge difference during busy summer months," says Chris Maxted, director of Dog-G8. And with over 3,200 total accommodations analyzed, California also gives travelers the widest range of choices, from sprawling oceanfront resorts to boutique urban properties.

To formulate their findings, Dog-G8 analyzed accommodation data from Tripadvisor across all US states, ranking each based on the number of pet-friendly properties, the number of pet-friendly properties rated four stars and above, and the total property availability.

Other states like Texas and Florida also ranked highly in Dog-G8's analysis, but California stood out for delivering both quantity and quality, which can make a big difference when traveling during peak seasons.

These matter more than ever, as more people plan trips with their pets in mind. In fact, a growing number of travelers now prioritize dog-friendly stays, and many say finding the right accommodations is one of the biggest challenges when booking a trip.

Related: Chocolate Lab Declares War on Dad’s Crocs—and His Guilty Face Says Everything

When it comes to travel, a dog-friendly state needs to offer accommodations that combine availability, quality, and flexibility, making it easier for pet parents to plan trips without compromising on comfort or location. Easily accessible outdoor recreation (trails/parks) and canine-welcoming restaurants and shops should also be available. According to Visit California, "gorgeous weather, lots of wide-open spaces, and a relentlessly welcoming attitude [also] help make California one of the most pet-friendly states in the country."

As a Los Angeles resident and a dog mom, I can personally attest to the state's overwhelming dog-friendliness. I can take my doodle with me most places and enjoy endless outdoor options for keeping her (and me) entertained from morning till night. In fact, it's a rare event when I don't run into fellow four-legged friends at our local restaurants, shops, and the beach.

Ultimately, the most dog-friendly destinations are simply the ones that make travel easier. Continues Maxted, "Traveling with a dog takes more planning than a normal vacation. [People] have to think about safety, space, routine, and how their dog will cope in a new environment." Therefore, states offering safe, well-rated, and convenient places to stay and play are the most welcoming for our canine companions. Because when those bases are covered, both pets and their humans can actually relax and enjoy the trip.

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More than 1,500 Beagles were recently rescued from Ridglan Farms, a Wisconsin breeding and research facility. Big Dog Ranch Rescue and the Center for a Humane Economy orchestrated the rescue and negotiated a confidential agreement to purchase the 1,500 dogs for an undisclosed price from the facility. Many of the Beagles went to rescue organizations and foster homes so they can finally experience love and security.

This sweet Beagle just experienced playing with a ball in the grass for the very first time, and the happiness on her face spoke volumes.

my ridglan farms foster beagle playing with a tennis ball for the first time… wait til the end 🥹 So many firsts left to experience after spending her living her WHOLE life in a crowded cage. Her first time feeling grass or seeing sunlight was just two days ago. THIS is why supporting cruelty free brands matters. Every dog deserves a good, safe life with a loving home and a big old yard to play in. 🫶🏻 #ridglanfarms #rescuedog #dogrescue #animalrescue #beagle

The TikTok from @cozyveganfinds shared the adorable moment when the rescued Beagle started to play.

"Her first time playing with a tennis ball after a life of steel bars and concrete," the onscreen text read as the canine cutie sniffed the ball and grabbed it in her mouth. "My heart melted when I realized she loves it... like she LOVES it."

The Beagle held onto the ball as her foster mom playfully tried to take it. When her foster mom finally got the ball and threw it for the pup to retrieve, the fur baby wasn't quite sure what to do, so her mom patiently took her through the game step by step.

"Still getting used to the concept of throwing a toy and having open space to play in," the story continued. "She's starting to trust me enough to follow me around."

A look of pure joy radiated from the Beagle's sweet face as she romped and played in the wide-open yard. By the end of the video, the pooch chased after the ball and retrieved it like a pro. She was enjoying every second of her newfound freedom.

The rescued Beagles now get to have everyday pleasures they were deprived of for so long. This pretty pup is already letting her guard down and has a fresh new start.

Related: Seriously Ill Street Dog Has Miraculous Recovery Thanks to One Life-Changing Factor

"So many firsts left to experience after spending her living her WHOLE life in a crowded cage," the caption shared. "Her first time feeling grass or seeing sunlight was just two days ago. THIS is why supporting cruelty-free brands matters. Every dog deserves a good, safe life with a loving home and a big old yard to play in."

For more information on the rescued Beagles or to donate, visit Big Dog Ranch Rescue’s website.

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Look, some dogs are just destined for greatness. And Piranka? This gorgeous blue French Bulldog was absolutely born to be a real life Stitch.

Piranka's soft blue-gray color, those big bat ears, that compact little body—he already had major Stitch vibes going before anyone ever added a costume. His mom just decided to make it undeniably official.

The TikTok from @piranka_babyshark shows the whole thing. First, Piranka sits there while his mama puts him into a full Stitch costume. Ears and everything. Then we get a whole photo series of Piranka and a Stitch plush spending an entire day together in Hawaii.

Hawaii bro 🤣

They're twinning. Absolutely, perfectly twinning.

The caption says it all: "Hawaii bro 🤣 Hawaii beach fun with an adorable blue frenchie dressed in a cute Stitch costume while his mom plays the Lilo and Stitch soundtrack vinyl”.

Wait. The Lilo & Stitch soundtrack on vinyl. In Hawaii. Where Stitch is literally from in the movie.

The commitment here is off the charts.

The montage shows the dynamic duo doing everything together. Beach trips. Hanging out in Hawaii. Posing for photos. Both are looking equally adorable and equally blue.

The comments were simple and spot on:

"Twinning 🥰""Twins!"

What else is there to say? When your blue Frenchie looks that much like Stitch naturally, you absolutely have to lean into it. Full costume. Full soundtrack. Full Hawaiian experience. She really said make it official or don't do it at all.

Here's the thing about Piranka's costume day: He looks genuinely fine with it. All those photos show a chill dog hanging out, doing activities, wearing his costume all day. That doesn't just happen by accident.

Some dogs wear costumes easily. Others hate every second of being dressed up. The difference comes down to whether the dog feels comfortable in the outfit or trapped.

Related: Adorable Labrador Does 'Extreme Wiggle Butts' for Peanut Butter—We're All Jealous of His Joyful Vibe

Normal dressing up first. Dogs handle costumes better when the costume doesn't feel like a restrictive new experience. No one feels comfortable in tight clothes. If your dog has worn a sweater before, even just once, they're more likely to be okay with something fancier because the concept of "I'm wearing clothes now" already makes sense to them because they’ve done it already.

Piranka might not be a first-timer. Dogs who've been dressed up before tend to roll with it better.

Comfort is absolutely everything. Your dog doesn't care if their outfit looks cute. They care if it feels weird, restricts their moving normally, or feels too heavy and annoying.

Piranka's Stitch costume looks like it was made for him. The fact that he spent the whole day in it—walking around, sitting, doing all the normal dog things—means it wasn't bothering him at all. 

Pay attention to how they actually act in their outfit. The best #OOTD is the one your dog almost forgets they're wearing because it’s so comfortable. If your dog can still exist; walk normally, sit down, play, and generally be themselves, then you're good. If they're frozen in place and not moving or trying to rip it off, that's your sign.

Piranka clearly passed the vibe check. He wasn't just tolerating the costume for a quick photo—he wore it all day. He wore it like it was part of him. Beach trips, hanging out, the whole thing. That only happens when a dog actually doesn't mind or loves it.

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Keep it as simple as you can in the beginning. Experts say simpler outfits that fit well work way better than complicated ones. But when you've got a dog who doesn't care and seems to actually enjoy it—like Piranka obviously does—you can go full production mode.

The quick checklist: Start slow with clothing. Make sure everything fits comfortably. Pay attention to whether your dog seems stressed or relaxed. Keep it simple enough that they can move normally.

Piranka spent an entire day dressed as Stitch in Hawaii with a cool vinyl soundtrack playing in the background. That's the whole vibe. And he was absolutely living for the aesthetic.

Part of the fun of leaving winter behind is finally getting to spend more time outdoors without being constrained by layers of warm clothes and frigid temperatures. And as things warm up outside, retailers everywhere are helping inspire a world of seasonal renovations, from big weekend projects to simple, practical upgrades alike.

Take Hobby Lobby, for example. The popular arts-and-crafts chain has already dropped an array of new spring finds, one recent favorite of ours being this Butterfly Glass Bird Bath. Sporting a gorgeous butterfly pattern, vibrant colors and a currently discounted price of $30.99, it's the perfect pickup for the bird-watcher in your family or a practical garden upgrade for anyone looking to kickstart a seasonal refresh.

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Hobby Lobby

Generally priced at $61.99, the Butterfly Glass Bird Bath is a shining example of the one-of-a-kind gems you can find at Hobby Lobby on any given week. Designed to make any feathered friend feel right at home in your garden or lawn, this piece features a round embossed glass bowl covered in vibrant colors, along with an elegant black folding stand that gives it an elevated, decorative look.

The bowl itself comes bursting with rich shades of orange, yellow and red, all put together to form a gorgeous butterfly resting in front of a cluster of blooming flowers. Whether you display it indoors or outdoors, the glass construction and colorful design look even more eye-catching when the light hits just right. And once the bowl is filled with water and starts to glimmer, it's only a matter of time before the neighborhood birds start swooping in for a closer look.

Related: Shoppers 'Couldn't Be More Satisfied' With Sam's Club's $20 Hummingbird Feeder Kit

Hobby Lobby

In online reviews, shoppers left a flurry of five-star ratings, praising the birdbath's high-quality construction and eye-catching design.

"It's a nice and good quality bird bath," one fan wrote. "Looks just like the photos," they added, which says a lot considering the photos alone are convincing enough to tempt us to buy one.

"Gorgeous butterfly," another shopper chimed in, adding that "it's larger than expected" and that they were "thrilled with the purchase!"

"The perfect garden piece," a third fan raved, also praising the birdbath's "beautiful" design and impressively large size.

In terms of its overall footprint, the bowl measures 2.7 inches tall with an 18-inch diameter, while the stand measures 22.2 inches tall with a 15.9-inch width and depth. Each piece is built to withstand the rigors of average rain and snowstorms, though you may want to bring the bowl inside during extreme weather or especially windy days. And to keep it shiny and looking like new, a quick rinse with soap and water should always do the trick.

Don't miss out on adding this charming home and garden upgrade to your space. And while you're at it, take a look at Hobby Lobby's adorable wooden bird feeder and $17 hummingbird feeder for even more avian-inspired upgrades.

Related: Shoppers Say Hobby Lobby’s $8 Farmhouse-Style Feeder Is a Hit With Local Hummingbirds

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Some dogs drink water politely. Others can turn a single sip into a small flood.

If your dog belongs in the second type, you already know what is happening. You are constantly seeing wet socks, slippery floors, and water trails leading halfway across the house.

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And that is the reason why many pet parents are turning to the Drymate Dog Bowl Placemat, currently trending on Wayfair. Designed to sit underneath food and water bowls, his simple yet effective product can do wonders for messy drinkers.

The real appeal is how much mess it absorbs before it spreads across the floor.

Related: Wayfair Shoppers Say This Adorable Snuffle Mat Keeps Dogs Busy for Hours

For many pet parents, this feeding mat is saving their floors from daily chaos. Large feeding mats can slide around, trap moisture underneath, but fail to catch the chaos created by messy drinkers.

This mat takes a different approach. Thanks to the absorbent top layer, it can catch splashes while a waterproof backing helps prevent moisture from soaking through the floors.

The material is slip-resistant, preventing it from moving side to side while your dog aggressively attacks the water bowl.

The best part? Unlike plastic mats, you can throw this one in your washing machine.

"Great size! It catches all the water that spills out of our dog's mouth when drinking from his water bowl," praised one shopper.

That size matters more than people expect. Many dogs do not spill directly next to the bowl. Water drips outward as they walk away, especially with long ears, beards, or enthusiastic drinking habits.

The best pet products solve boring problems. Pet parents buy plenty of fun things for their pets, including fancy toys, matching collars, and beds shaped like miniature couches.

But the products that they love the most are the ones that make their life easier. Pet parenting is full of daily frustrations you rarely think about. Water bowls are among them. And sometimes, the difference between feeling overwhelmed and feeling organized is simply walking into your kitchen without stepping into an unexpected puddle.

Related: This Human-Sized Dog Bed at Wayfair Is the Plush Retreat Your Pup Deserves

When you own a German shepherd, eventually, you will come to the same conclusion: privacy is over. Some pet parents learn it sooner; others take more time.

One woman, who posted to Reddit's r/germanshepherds, learned that again while trying to put her baby boy down for a nap. In a Reddit post, she joked that she had never met a breed as clingy as a German shepherd.

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Her female German shepherd stood beside the bed, staring with her crying puppy eyes, hoping to get the call. And eventually, she did.

Many people call German shepherds Velcro dogs. And the video proves it. The fun part is that this German shepherd politely waited for an invite. Usually, these dogs have no regard for personal space.

As she was staring at her mom with enormous puppy eyes, the dog waited by the bed. The moment her mom gave the command to "come up," she instantly went for cuddling.

Many Redditors could relate. One person wrote, "I always tell my girl she's so clingy. Then I kiss her face and tell her to never change!"

Another added, "For real, I'm honestly just as clingy for her as she is for me! I'm going on a trip in July and I am NOT looking forward to not having her with me for almost 5 days."

Related: This Baby Girl Is Discovering the World—and Her German Shepherd Refuses to Miss a Single Moment

This breed was bred to work closely with humans. Their instinct to be close to humans can explain their clingy behavior.

German shepherds are observant dogs and emotionally tuned in. They believe their job is to supervise every household activity. And yes, that includes bathroom breaks and bedtime routines.

Many breeds enjoy affection, but German shepherds tend to build entire emotional support systems around one person.

Go to the bathroom? Your shepherd follows. Move rooms? They stand up immediately. Try putting a baby down for a nap alone? Absolutely not.

But beneath all that clinginess is a dog that wants to be close to the people they love most. Sometimes, that love shows up beside a baby's bedtime routine.

We also have to acknowledge the dog's calmness around the baby in the video. Not all dogs are calm. That takes a lot of training, teaching and preparation.

The safest way to introduce a baby to a dog is before the baby even arrives home. Many trainers recommend rewarding calm behavior near baby equipment. For example, giving the baby's hospital blanket to the dog and letting them sniff and get familiar with new scents.

Then comes the harder part, teaching impulse control. You need to train cues like "wait," "place" and "gentle" to build a structure.

The German shepherd in the video looked wonderfully gentle, but what made the moment feel so safe was the communication between the dog and their mom. The dog checked in, and their parent responded calmly—everyone understood the boundaries.

Related: Patient Golden Retriever Gives Baby a 'Lesson' in the Art of Fetch

Hockey fans tuning in for the Stanley Cup playoffs this year are about to meet a very different kind of superstar. Usually, they expect fights along the boards, dramatic overtime goals and playoff beards. But tiny rescue puppies sliding across a miniature rink? That might be an even better competition.

The NHL has officially announced the return of the Stanley Pup, the rescue-dog competition that somehow manages to combine playoff energy with tiny adoptable puppies looking for their forever homes.

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This will be third annual Stanley Pup, and this year, every one of the NHL’s 32 teams will have a puppy representative.

The puppies may be the attraction, but the goal is something bigger. Underneath the costumes and the jerseys, the event will help rescue dogs get seen and hopefully adopted.

Animal shelters’ biggest challenge is visibility. There are thousands of incredible dogs sitting in shelters across the United States simply because the right person never sees them.

Related: Sweet Rescue Dog Gets the Most Unexpected 'Forrest Gump'-Inspired Name

Some of them are older. Some are shy and anxious. A nervous dog sitting quietly in the back of a kennel doesn’t get the same attention as an energetic and friendly dog.

But take that dog out for a walk (or, in this case, out on a hockey rink), and their personality changes completely.

That is why events like the Stanley Pup matter.

Usually, viewers see the adoption plea, the kennel photo and the pup’s backstory, but they rarely see what happens next. This year, the event will include follow-up segments hosted by Elias Weiss Friedman, better known as The Dogist, who will post adoption stories that happened after last year’s competition.

A dog stops being another shelter dog once viewers see them playing, cuddling and showing their real personality. Rescue dogs rarely get a second chance at a first impression, and the Stanley Pup gives them a platform to be seen for who they really are.

Loud kennels can make even the calmest and gentlest dog seem anxious. Dogs in kennels may bark nonstop because they are overly stimulated, and some shut down completely and avoid any interaction.

Yet, put that same dog around toys and human attention, and you see a completely different personality. The Stanley Pup will give those dogs a second chance at a first impression.

Puppies might be the ones competing in the event, but we think everyone wins. There is a reason why the event is silly in the best possible way. Tiny jerseys and mini hockey sticks will bring fun and playfulness, and somewhere in the middle of that chaos, real adoptions happen. And that is the part worth paying attention to. Some of these rescue dogs might find their forever home after a moment on national television, and they come away as the real winners.

The Stanley Pup 2026 is set to debut on June 8, airing on truTV with a simultaneous broadcast on HBO Max in the U.S. at 9:30 p.m. ET and on Sportsnet in Canada at 8 p.m. ET.

Related: This Senior Rescue Dog Needs a Name—And One ‘Star Wars’ Character Is Winning Big

There are family dogs, and then there are dogs who quietly decide protecting the kids is their full-time personal responsibility.

A sweet Bernese Mountain Dog named River is currently melting hearts online after spending an entire night outside watching over children during a backyard sleepover.

How do you reward this behavior from a dog? 🐶 #dogsoftiktokviral #protector #dogsoftiktokviral🐶🦮 #tiktokdogs #bernesemountaindog

The video, shared on the @riverthebernie TikTok account, shows the touching clip alongside the caption, “How do you reward this behavior from a dog?”

The video shows kids sleeping outside on a trampoline surrounded by blankets and sleeping bags while River stayed nearby under the night sky, calmly keeping watch over them the entire time.

Related: German Shepherd Becomes Part of Kids’ Soccer Game and It’s Adorable

The caption continued, “This dog watched over my kids all night long while they slept outside for the first time.”

And honestly? It's hard not to get emotional watching such a quiet little act of loyalty.

River doesn't seem interested in joining the sleepover chaos herself. Instead, she simply stays nearby like a giant, fluffy security system, making sure everyone is safe before she can finally relax.

It's exactly the kind of gentle protective behavior Bernese Mountain Dogs are famous for, and people online immediately fell in love with her sweet devotion to the children.

Honestly, Bernese Mountain Dogs always seem like they were designed specifically to stand protectively beside children in a heartwarming family movie, while soft music plays in the background.

Meanwhile, my Pomeranian, Kingston, would absolutely volunteer for overnight security duty, too, except every falling leaf and suspicious squirrel would become a full-on emergency situation.

The morning routine continues, and we still can’t get enough of it. 😭 stop growing please. #bernesemountaindog #baby #dogandbaby

Bernese Mountain Dogs are often known for being gentle, affectionate, and naturally watchful around families. While every dog has a unique personality, many Berners form especially close bonds with children and enjoy staying physically near their people.

Because of their calm temperament and loyal nature, Bernese Mountain Dogs are commonly described as patient family companions who like feeling involved in household activities. Many also seem to instinctively “supervise” children during playtime or outdoor activities.

Of course, experts still recommend supervising all interactions between dogs and children, especially overnight or outdoors. But in River’s case, she appeared more than happy to take her backyard security responsibilities very seriously.

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Miami has seen its fair share of wild pool parties, but this one came with wagging tails, flying tennis balls, and more wet paw prints than anyone could count.

This week, hundreds of dogs gathered at Chewy Bark Park in Coral Gables, Fla., for what looked like the ultimate summer celebration.

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And somewhere between the splashing water and wagging tails, 277 dogs made history. By the end of the day, Chewy officially broke the Guinness World Record for the world's largest dog pool party.

Looking at the videos, you can see it felt like every dog's dream vacation.

The event transformed Chewy Bark Park into a canine waterpark complete with pop-up pools, cooling stations and plenty of room for dogs to socialize safely.

Some of them jumped into the water without hesitation. Water breeds like poodles, golden retrievers and Labrador retrievers were first to jump in.

Others approached it a bit more cautiously. But that is normal; not all dogs love water.

For dogs, water offers immediate sensory relief and a weightless environment. Think of a high-energy breed, and you can see why their pet parents love taking them to the beach. Pools allow them to move freely without the impact of hard pavement.

Water helps dogs regulate their temperature. Unlike humans, who sweat, dogs cool themselves by panting and using their paw pads.

Swimming also allows older dogs to burn energy without stress on their joints. That is why hydrotherapy is a popular option for senior dogs and those recovering from injuries.

Related: This Hilarious Golden Retriever Just Claimed the World’s Tiniest Swimming Pool

As we said before, not every dog is ready to cannonball into a pool. Some need patience. The best thing pet parents can do is let dogs move at their own pace. Do not rush them.

The biggest mistake you can make is carrying a nervous dog directly into water and letting them swim back. That can create panic fast and make your dog afraid of water forever.

What you can do instead is let them investigate at their own pace. Start with shallow water, toss floating toys near the edge, and watch your dog approach them slowly.

At events like the one Chewy threw, dogs often learn by watching each other. Your hesitant pup might gain confidence by watching dogs happily splashing around.

World records can sometimes feel gimmicky. This one didn't.

Chewy probably hoped for a fun summer event. What they ended up creating was one of those rare moments where hundreds of strangers gathered around something genuinely wholesome.

There is something magical about 277 dogs gathering for a shared moment of joy, with no competition or pressure, but pure enjoyment. Just dogs being dogs while all their pet parents laughed from the sidelines.

Related: This Golden Retriever Secretly Swam Into the Neighbor’s Pool for One Hilarious Reason

If you're looking for a fun way to challenge your animal IQ, one veterinarian nurse has just the test. An Instagram post shared by @sheltervetnurse shows two "mystery feet" peeking out from a fuzzy blanket, asking, "Which animal do you think these feet belong to?" The final reveal has our jaws on the floor!

Did you guess that the feet are from a rat named Toby, or are you like me, and you went completely blank as if you've never seen animals before?! Though you can tell the reveal would be a small animal, the alien-like toes threw me. Then again, I can't think of a time I've seen a rat or actually studied the way they look, so the joke's on me.

The sleepy boy was waking up from anesthesia after surgery at the time of filming. As explained, "He was surrendered as a single male to our shelter, and because rats are social animals that need to live with other rats, we castrated him so we can mix him with either a female without the chances of reproducing, or another male without the testosterone, as that can cause issues when introduced as adults."

The more you know!

Related: Resident Vet Clinic Cat Chaotically Takes Over Front Desk Like He's the Boss

The initial video only shows Toby's adorable tootsies without revealing much else, and the answers people guessed in the comments are way too funny. "Mother chicken father rat something," and "I don't know, but I love it," both sound like something I'd write because I had no clue until the camera panned up to show Toby's cute face.

Some comedians wrote "elephant" or even an ostrich," while others went in a much closer direction proclaiming Toby is a hedgehog, squirrel, or "some type of rodent." The super-smart fans who were right on the money had the funniest way of guessing.

"I know rattie tootsies when I see ‘em," one person commented. "Oh, dems rat feet," another added. "I could recognize those beautiful rat feet from anywhere," another stated.

I won't be betting any money on guessing animal feet anytime soon. I guess I'll take this as a sign to study up—just in case!

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Flamingos already look like they were designed by somebody who wanted to make birds a little extra. They're tall, pink, dramatic, and somehow always give the impression that they know more than the rest of us. So the second one decides to start feeding ducklings like an overqualified daycare worker, the whole thing somehow feels both impossible and exactly right.

And yes, as a New Mexican, I am absolutely proud to see the Albuquerque Zoo going viral for this.

It takes a village. ❤️ flamingo feeding the duck babies. #albuquerquenewmexico #albuquerque

In the video, a flamingo notices a group of hungry ducklings and just… steps in. No hesitation. No committee meeting. No long explanation. The post caption sums it up with: “It takes a village,” and honestly, that's the cleanest way to describe what you're watching. This bird sees babies who need help and immediately shifts into what can only be called auntie mode. The ducklings gather close, the flamingo feeds them, and the internet collectively loses its mind. The clip has been circulating widely online over the last few days. 

One comment absolutely nails the emotional center of it: “She knows they're not her babies, but she knows they're babies 🥰.”

Exactly.

It isn't just cute because different species are involved. It's cute because the logic feels so simple and so huge at the same time. Baby animals need care. One bird noticed. The end. There's something very soothing about that level of uncomplicated decency, especially when it arrives in the form of a flamingo in Albuquerque.

Flamingos aren't random feeders. So while this duckling moment is unusual, it's not coming out of nowhere behaviorally.

That doesn't make it less magical.

If anything, it makes it better.

Because now it's not just, “Wow, a flamingo fed some ducklings.” It's, “Wow, this flamingo had enough caregiving instinct on board to notice hungry babies and respond.” And that is the kind of thing that sticks with people.

A lot of viral animal videos are funny for 10 seconds and then gone. This one lingers because it feels like a tiny reminder that the world still contains some deeply weird and wonderful softness.

Flamingos normally feed flamingo chicks, not ducklings. Smithsonian’s National Zoo explains that flamingo parents produce crop milk specifically for their own young, and flamingo chicks usually move into group crèches with other flamingo chicks as they grow. That makes cross-species feeding like this genuinely uncommon, even if the caregiving impulse itself isn't surprising. 

So yes, this is rare. Not because flamingos are cold or indifferent, but because animal parenting usually stays within species. That's why this moment hit so hard. 

Albuquerque really sent out one flamingo, one village, and one very strong argument for being emotional before lunch.

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Related: Amazon Is Selling a 'Really Cute' 288-Piece Flamingo LEGO Set Perfect for Bird Lovers

Dogs and cats are sometimes returned to a shelter years after adoption due to a variety of reasons, including poor health, financial strain, moving, or a new baby. These fur babies don't understand why they are no longer with their family, and can emotionally shut down from the traumatic separation.

Stella the Calico mix cat was brought back to the NAWS Humane Society after 6 years and is clearly feeling a great sense of loss.

UPDATE IS POSTED FOR OUR SWEET STELLA GIRL! I LOVE YOU GUYS WITH ALL OF MY HEART 😭🤍🫂Our sweet little Stella is unfortunately back with us. It’s hard for us to know Stella’s true personality right now, but we believe she would do best in a quiet/calm home with other chill cats. Stella hasn’t been officially posted for adoption since she hasn’t been medically cleared, but you can still apply to adopt her at nawsus.org by submitting a generic cat adoption application. She currently isn’t on any medications for her eyes, but we recommend that whoever adopts her follows up with an eye specialist on a regular basis to make sure she continues to feel comfortable. Let’s get this girl adopted, i’m sending you all so much love. 🥹🤍🫂 #adopt #adoptdontshop #cat #catsoftiktok #catlover

In the TikTok from @franflight, the NAWS staff member gently lifted Stella out of her kennel as the post shared the pretty kitty's story.

"After 6 years of being adopted, Stella was relinquished back to us," the onscreen text explained as the staff member cuddled the sweet cat. "The new children in the home were too much for her."

Due to the traumatic change, Stella is withdrawn and tries to remain hidden out of fear and despair.

"Right now, Stella doesn't want anything to do with us," the story continued as the feline fur baby cowered in the corner of her kennel. "All she wants to do is become invisible."

When Stella was adopted years ago, she was diagnosed with eyelid agenesis, also known as eyelid coloboma. This rare condition is when a cat is born with some or all of its upper eyelid missing.

Due to this health issue, Stella's eyes are a bit misshapen, which can cause hesitation in potential pet parents.

Related: Orange Cat Visits Kitty Brother in the ER and Goes Into Caretaker Mode

"She had surgery through us to help her see properly, which is why she looks a little different," the text pointed out. "Cats that look like Stella have a harder time getting adopted. It's heartbreaking that this is her new home."

The shelter wants to find a loving home for Stella and feels she would be best suited for a quiet environment.

"It’s hard for us to know Stella’s true personality right now, but we believe she would do best in a quiet/calm home with other chill cats," the caption read. "Stella hasn’t been officially posted for adoption since she hasn’t been medically cleared, but you can still apply to adopt her at nawsus.org by submitting a generic cat adoption application."

The caption concluded with a plea for this precious cat: "Let’s get this girl adopted."

For more information on Stella or NAWS Humane Society, visit their website.

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There are a billion cat breeds in the world, it seems, and it's pretty common for them to mix together. It can happen randomly, with stray cats, or it can be intentional, depending on breeders. No matter what, though, all kittens deserve love, and all kittens are precious.

Recently, a new mix we don't see that often burst onto the scene, and she might be the cutest kitten ever. She's a Sphynx cross, so she'd hairless, but she's also got the sweetest ears:

#mixedcats #sphynx #kitten #fyp #cute

Lana's cats are hilarious because they're not all hairless. The mama cat was hairless, but the daddy cat has fur... So, when the kittens were born, it was just like the universe forgot to put clothes on a couple of them. Their siblings aren't freaked out by it at all, luckily, and everyone gets to play together.

She hasn't said anything about when the kittens might be moving onto their forever homes (or if she's keeping them all). They're only about a month old, so they still have time to make that decision. In the meantime, they're soaking up all the kitten time they can!

Related: Sphynx Cat Turns Home Heat up to 90 Degrees: ‘He Yearns for the Sahara'

The kittens are growing up fast, too. They're already exploring their home, and now that they're not just in their mom's grasp all the time, they're having a lot of fun. Even though they don't all have fur:

Replying to @Lils 💗 #kitties #mixedcats #sphynx #fyp #cute

The two hairless Sphynx babies are slightly fuzzier than a typical Sphynx kitten would be. I bet they feel really cool when you pet them, like sweet little peaches!

Sphynx kittens are not like regular kittens in a lot of ways, and they're definitely not for novice cat lovers. They get the Kitten Crazies just like any other cat breed, but you need to be a little more careful with them than with a normal kitten.

Image via Shutterstock / Anthony Aldum

Sphynx kittens aren't necessarily harder to care for than other kittens, but there are extra things they need. If you have a Sphynx kitten, they'll need:

• Ways to keep warm, since their small bodies have a harder time trapping in heat.
• Regular baths to keep dirt and debris off of their skin.
• Moisturization sessions with coconut oil or something similar.

If you can handle a breed that needs some extra time, it's completely worth it. Hairless cats have the biggest hearts!

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Making friends can feel overwhelming sometimes, and apparently, that also includes tiny introverted Pomeranians who simply want a calm companion with good boundaries and minimal emotional pressure.

One shy little white dog is making the internet laugh after revealing that his absolute favorite playmate is not another dog, but the family’s robotic lawn mower.

“My introvert dog’s favorite playmate is the robotic lawn mower 😂 ………………………….#pom #pomeranian #doglover #cutedog #spitz

The adorable TikTok clip, shared by @picotine_de_paris, has the caption, “My introvert dog’s favorite playmate is the robotic lawn mower.”

The video shows the fluffy little Pomeranian happily following the mower around the yard, like the two are casually taking a peaceful afternoon walk together.

Related: Two Rescue Dogs Who Couldn’t Make Friends Are Now Inseparable

Honestly, the friendship somehow makes immediate sense. The lawn mower is quiet, predictable, emotionally available, and apparently never tries to sniff anybody’s face too aggressively.

• “I like this guy. He’s quiet.”
• “It’s friend-shaped. I get it.”
• “Oh, and the new guy is PERFECT, he doesn’t talk or try to control me, we just go on long walks in the garden…”
• “They move at the same speed, so it’s a perfect match.”
• “Oh, to be a little Pomeranian with a robot friend in his garden.”
• “That dog was a middle-aged suburban dad in another life.”
• “They go on walks together, how cute.”
• “Aw, and that’s his bestie.”

Honestly, the entire friendship has strong “two introverts quietly existing together without pressure” energy.

And as somebody with a Pomeranian named Kingston, I completely get it. Kingston also struggles to make dog friends sometimes, and he tends to either hide dramatically or bark like a tiny emotional security guard instead. Meanwhile, this little dog apparently found inner peace through advanced lawn technology.

Part 2 | Trying to socialize our introverted dog . . #bernedoodlesoftiktok #fyp #dogsoftiktok #dogfriendly #viralpetiktok #petsoftiktok #petfriendly #spoiled #doodle #doodlesoftiktok #bernese

Some dogs naturally have more introverted or cautious personalities, especially around unfamiliar dogs or busy environments. Early socialization, past experiences, breed tendencies, and personality can all affect how comfortable a dog feels during social interactions.

• Calm, predictable companions
• Slower introductions
• Quiet environments
• Familiar routines
• Parallel activities instead of rough play
• Smaller social circles

And honestly? This tiny Pomeranian may have accidentally discovered the perfect low-friendship all on his own.

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You'll never know what precious treasures you may find in the aftermath of a storm.

In the aftermath of a recent devastating tornado in Mississippi, a storm chaser named Ashton Lemley never expected to hear a tiny cry (or meow, rather) coming from under the rubble.

However, he quickly realized a very strong but tiny survivor was trapped under piles of debris and desperately needed help.

This emotional rescue story will touch your heart and give you hope. The tiny kitten survivor started her life in a tough way, but she has become a national symbol of resilience and strength.

While sifting through the rubble left by the massive tornadoes that tore across Mississippi earlier this week, storm chaser Ashton Lemley made an incredible discovery: A kitten, still alive. Now, Lemley is looking for that kitten’s forever home. #mississippi #kitten #catsoftiktok #tornadoes

Though in the video he finds the survivor kitten fairly fast, it actually took him some time, as she was so tiny and there was so much debris.

As you can see, the kitten was wet and scared, found hiding between two wooden posts.

Related: Rescue Kitten ‘Learning How To Make Biscuits’ Is Pure, Wholesome Goodness

This was a very dangerous tornado, as People reported that at least 17 people were injured, including 12 in Lincoln County, due to the storm.

Lemley told the AP that it was “very heartbreaking to see any type of animal or human go through something like that.”

So how did this tiny little kiity manage to survive?

Tiny, not fully developed animals are especially vulnerable in a storm like this, as it's so easy for them to be trapped, injured, and confused.

But this little survivor stayed strong and kept meowing until someone heard her.

This story is getting a lot of media attention and online fanfare because it's such a small but beautiful moment of hope amid so much dark chaos and destruction.

Though it would be quite the fairy-tale ending if the little kitten went home with Lemley, he is, unfortunately, allergic to cats.

But don't worry about this strong kitten, as plenty of people want to adopt her if her cat parents can't be found.

Lemley noted that many people think her name should be "Tornado," and we agree!

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Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Are you taking advantage of Amazon Pet Days? Right now, Amazon is having some amazing sales and deals on pet supplies and pet toys. And one of the best deals going on right now is for a highly rated litter box mat.

The Gorilla Grip Cat Litter Box Mat is now only $10 when it normally costs $20. Yes, that means you're getting 50% off if you jump on this deal right now!

The $10 mat is the one that's a size small (24"x17") in the color Grey. The same listing also has sizes extra small through jumbo, and even a half circle size and a corner size. And on top of that, there are nine other colors to choose from (with varying costs.) Whatever size, color, or shape mat you need, you'll find it at this listing.

What makes these mats so special is the durable materials they're made of. The Gorilla Grip mats have a top layer with thick mesh coils that are designed to effectively grab litter in their deep grooves. The mats also have a textured backing that helps them stay in place. (This is especially important if you have an active, energetic kitty who loves after-litter zoomies!)

The mats are water resistant and won't allow liquids to pass through, protecting your floors. And they're easy to clean: just tip and pour the collected litter back into the litter box.

Your cat will appreciate how soft the mat is on their paws (which may cut down on litter avoidance.) And so will you! One buyer writes: "This is a AWESOME mat for under the litter box! It lasted a full 7 years with lots of vacuuming and washing."

Courtesy of Amazon

These mats have a 4.5 out of 5 star rating with more than 53,000 reviews. This means that more than 38,000 people have rated these mats with a perfect 5 out of 5 star review! Customers rave about how effective the mat is at containing litter, how easy it is to clean, and the durability.

Here are just a few things that people are saying about these litter mats:

• "It has excellent grip and stays in place well, even with active cats going in and out of the box. The material feels high-quality and durable."
• "It takes litter off their little paws and keeps it from going all over the place. I even washed it in the washer and it just looked new."
• "This litter box mat fit perfectly underneath our cats’ litter box, and keeps the litter mess contained to the small area of the mat! Very easy to clean; can be shaken off, vacuumed up, or washed in the sink!"

The Gorilla Grip Cat Litter Box Mat is practically a steal for only $10. But if you need a different color or a different size, it won't cost too much more. With so many amazing reviews, you'll definitely want to give it a try and see how you and your kitty like it.

Amazon offers free shipping on pet supplies shipped by Amazon of more than $35, along with 30-day refunds/replacements.

Related: 'Amazing' Cat GPS Tracker Is 50% Off for Amazon Pet Days — 'Real Peace of Mind'

I'm both terrified of and in love with Doodles. I think they're awesome dogs, but I'm also of the belief that they might be humans in dog suits. There's just something about them that makes them look so... Sentient.

When there's a cute enough pup, though, I can get past my heebie jeebies. For example, this adorable Bernedoodle! He looks like a little s'more with legs, and his cute graham cracker paws just seal the deal:

Trust me!! 💕 🐾. #MinkCoat #MicroBernedoodle #bernedoodleviral #bernedoodlepuppies #DoodleLife

Anderson Jones has some of the cutest puppies ever! I don't think a Bernedoodle is the right fit for my lifestyle, but I love to admire them, and especially that one. You can really see both breeds in her! She has a few defining features:

• Her curly coat, which is the Poodle part.
• Black, white, and tan splotches in her fur; those graham cracker paws are 100% Berner.
• A round head and "teddy bear" eyes, which are typical of any Doodle.

The hashtags claim she's specifically a Mink-Coated Micro Bernedoodle. That just means she's a cross between a toy Poodle and a Bernese Mountain Dog, and her coat is more plush than a standard Bernedoodle. It's softer.

Related: Mini Schnauzer With Rare ‘Split Face’ Coloring Looks Like the Moon Phases

They seem to specialize in Mink-Coated Micro Bernedoodles. The most interesting thing about Mink Bernedoodles is that their fur sometimes takes on a very silvery-grey tone. Mixed with their other colors, these pups look almost purple:

They are jokers 🐾. #MinkCoat #MicroBernedoodle #bernedoodleviral #bernedoodlepuppies #DoodleLife

I just know these puppies have the funniest personalities. This one has a long, waggly tail, and she clearly can't wait to go and play. That's exactly how a puppy should be!

Bernedoodles are one of those breeds that you might not think would be super diverse, but they are. Most Doodles, regardless of their second parent breed, typically come in three distinct sizes. The Bernedoodle is no exception!

Image via Shutterstock / Wirestock Creators

Bernedoodles are typically black, white, and tan, though they can be Merle as well, depending on what their parents have been crossed with. As for sizes, you'll usually find:

• Standard Bernedoodles: Bernese Mountain Dog x Standard Poodle.
• Mini Bernedoodle: Bernese Mountain Dog x Mini Poodle.
• Micro Bernedoodle: Bernese Mountain Dog x Toy Poodle.

A Micro Bernedoodle will be a little bigger than a toy Poodle, just because the Bernese Mountain Dog is so large. If you do decide you really want a Doodle of any kind, always make sure you do extensive research: this breed is so popular, and often comes from unethical breeders. Be careful!

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Halloween is still several months away, but if you're anything like me, you're preparing now. There are skeletons in my front yard as we speak, and I'm already trying to find my Halloween decorations so that I'm ready when the time comes. I can't wait!

One cat has me beat, though: she is ready for Halloween at all times. She's half orange, half black, and 100% Frankenstein vibes! You simply have to see her to believe it:

The Jacket Cat is so cool. Her name is Kitty, and she's gone viral a few times before because of the amazing way her coat looks. Though we don't know exactly how old she is, she's full-grown, and she's been in her forever home with her mom and her grey cat brother since she was a baby.

A lot of people have different ideas about why she might be like this: some people claim she's a Chimera, which is impossible to prove without genetic testing, and she doesn't have the right markings for that. Others think she's half Tuxedo, while some people also think someone just glued two cats together.

Related: Ragdoll Cat With Rare ‘Split Splatter’ Coloring Looks Like a Shining Star

Her colors have definitely deepened over time, but she's had the same split since she was a baby. She was so tiny that it genuinely looked like someone had dipped her in Cheeto dust or something:

Risposta a @erin

She was so little! My favorite part is that she still has those little white paws. She could not get cuter if she tried, especially with all of her spooky vibes!

Kitty's coat is not typical at all. Most of the time, cats don't have such defined color blocks: it's usually more like specks, flecks, or spots. Not her, though. Her blocks are huge, and she's stunning.

Image via Shutterstock / Maliflower73

Kitty is a Calico cat: she has defined patches of white, orange, and black. It's as simple as that. The way her coat ended up looking is purely random, though a few people speculate that she might be mixed with a Tuxedo. That would explain the defined blocking, especially on her legs and chest.

Whatever the case may be, Kitty is awesome! She's happy, healthy, well-loved, and perpetually ready for Halloween. What more could you ask for?!

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