Parade Pets

Every dog has their complaints. Cupcake the English Bulldog? She's got a whole list of complaints.

There's a TikTok where Cupcake's sitting still looking adorably pouty while her grievances get aired publicly. The caption reads: "Life sucks," which, honestly, sets the tone for every thought that follows.

The text overlay lays out Cupcake's entire situation: "Can't bite mom. Can't bodyslam guests. Can't kill the vacuum. Can't eat socks. Can't even eat my own sh*t. Can't do anything."

That's the entire list. Cupcake's face while this plays? Pure and absolute disappointment. She's sitting there like a tiny wrinkly judge who's been overruled on every single case.

Life sucks

The comments are full of people who love Cupcake despite—or because of—her complaints.

"OMG, that face 😭 What a queen! ❤️," because that pouty expression is totally regal.

"What a beautiful little face 🌸," appreciating the wrinkles.

"That wrinkly little mouth melts my whole heart. Oh, how I love Miss Cupcake!!🧁 ❤️," complete devotion.

Related: Tiny Cocker Spaniel Gets the Cutest Tracking Device—'Only 3 Apples Tall'

Cupcake's just sitting there, going over everything she's not allowed to do and contemplating life. Biting your mom? Off limits. Bodyslamming guests? Apparently frowned upon. Killing the vacuum? Still forbidden despite how much Cupcake probably wants to.

And eating socks? Can't even do that. Even her own poop is off limits. She’s not allowed to do any of it.

Here's why Cupcake's list is both funny and also, completely normal dog behavior: a lot of what she's listing are natural dog instincts that are frowned upon in polite society and the household setting.

The vacuum thing? Dogs often want to attack vacuums. My dogs are equal opportunity cleaning device haters; vaccuum, broom, mop are all off limits. The sound's intense to their hearing—dogs pick up sounds at higher frequencies and volumes than humans. Add in the unpredictable movement and vibrations, and some dogs go on the offensive. Barking at or wanting to "kill" the vacuum can come from a place of fear, protective instinct, or sometimes the prey drive is triggered by how the machine moves.

Bulldogs are particularly stubborn. They've got big personalities. They know what they want. And when what they want conflicts with house rules, they notice.

But the fact that bodyslamming guests is on the "can't do" list shows that Cupcake knows the boundaries even if she's not thrilled about them—she's aware that's not allowed.

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Sock eating and those other forbidden activities? Those are things dogs naturally want to do that humans have to redirect. It's all part of loving dogs.

Cupcake sitting there with that adorable, pouty face while her whole list of restrictions gets read? That's a Bulldog with opinions who's not afraid to share them.

Life sucks sometimes, Cupcake. We get it.

But that face? She’s absolutely perfect.

As someone who grew up with German Shepherds, I have a soft spot for these glorious goofballs. And while they’re undeniably adorable as tiny fluffy puppies, there’s something about that lanky in-between stage that might be even better, with big personalities, oversized paws, and ears that haven’t quite decided what they’re doing yet.

That’s also when their logic gets a little… creative. Add a strong “I fit, I sit” mindset, and suddenly, the most unexpected spots start looking like the perfect place to settle in.

For one especially adorable German Shepherd Puppy, that meant claiming a tiny flower pot as his own.

Watch the moment unfold in this March 27 Instagram from @vendettathegsd:

Although that flower pot doesn’t exactly look like the most comfortable spot for a puppy his size, he seems perfectly content, curled up in the planter as if it were made for him. The way he looks up at his mom almost makes it seem like he can’t understand what’s so unusual about it.

Related: German Shepherd Puppy Uses the Water Bowl as a Pillow, and It’s Just Too Funny

It’s such a classic German Shepherd moment. They’re smart, adaptable, and just a bit goofy in the best way.

Viewers had plenty to say in the comments.

“That’s a dog raised by a cat if I’ve ever seen one!” @lexycrd joked.

Another shared, “Ah, yes, the crop is coming in nicely this year.”

While @elizhurd added, “The ears flopping as he arranges himself is killing me.”

Image via Shutterstock/Happy monkey

That slightly awkward puppy stage is completely normal. As Kaiser German Shepherds explains, the breed moves through several distinct growth stages, and the juvenile period from about 3 to 6 months is one of the most noticeable. It’s a time of rapid growth, when puppies are becoming more curious, more confident, and still figuring out how to move in bodies that seem to change by the week.

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It’s also when their personalities really start to come through. They’re more willing to explore, test things out, and follow their own instincts, even if that means deciding a flower pot is the best seat in the house.

If you’ve ever had a German Shepherd Puppy, you know how quickly this phase passes. And how the little, blink-and-you-miss-it habits, like squeezing into places they definitely don’t fit, end up being the moments that stick with us long after they’ve grown into big, beautiful dogs.

No matter how big a cat grows to be, they're always going to do cat things. Once these curious, bold, deep-thinking cuties decide they're interested in something, they'll find a way to investigate it. For some reason, it's an even more diabolical-looking (and adorable) event when they're a huge breed.

This describes Teddy, the Maine Coon, who doesn't seem to realize how gigantic he is, because at his core, he's just a little baby kitten. His talents include being cute, showing off how cute he is, and mostly, using his massive paws to steal from his mom's purse!

I presume he’s after hair ties and power cords, or anything plastic that he absolutely shouldn’t be chewing on #cattok #catsoftiktok #mainecooncat #mainecoon #pettok

You don't get the handle @teddywiththumbs by having basic digits. Teddy, in all his Maine Coon glory, loves using his murder mittens for all kinds of things, but diving into Mom's purse with those colossal paws like a regular pickpocket wasn't on my 2026 Bingo card! Is he looking for a little extra cash to score some back-alley treats?

Related: Maine Coon Kitten's Chunky Highlights Are Sun-Kissed 'Purrfection'

It's important when I say Teddy is big that you don't confuse that descriptor with a big feline. No, I mean most of this enormous boy's "bigness" comes from those gargantuan polydactyl paws.

Being the one and only Teddy "with thumbs," it's only fair you get a closer look at why he's the reigning king of paws (and those tufts of hair make them even better)!

hit him like a bolt of lightning ⚡️ #cattok #catsoftiktok #mainecooncat #pettok #petsoftiktok

When it comes to Maine Coons, their full-grown size can turn out to be almost anything. As one of the largest domestic breeds, males like Teddy can grow 10 to 25 pounds as adults, with females hitting the 10- to 15-pound mark.

The more interesting thing about these angels is those big, fluffy, multi-toed paws! Polydactyl kitties might have one extra toe than their usual 18. The world record holders had a whopping 28 beans, which is mind-blowing! It's unknown if there are any other Maine Coons who like stealing things from purses, but I wouldn't put it past them.

It takes these cats time to mature, making them like huge little toddlers for a long while (three to five years), but as long as Teddy shows off his big-boy paws, he can do whatever he wants (sorry, Mom!).

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Lemurs might just be naturals when it comes to Easter egg hunts. In this charming video, the playful animals participated in the holiday tradition at a wildlife park in Great Britain, thanks to their creative keepers who filled and hid plastic eggs throughout the lemurs' enclosure. The nimble animals searched for eggs with childlike excitement, but also with impressive skill, focus, and absolute cuteness.

There must have been something very tasty (Lemur-approved Peeps?) in those colorful plastic eggs because the dexterous creatures were highly motivated to win the hunt. Their ability to open each egg was also extremely impressive, and the payoff was delightful.

But it's the lemur at the end of the video for me, who sits like a human having just gorged on too many Easter treats (girl, same).

Happy Easter 🐣

And if watching lemurs hunt for colorful Easter eggs isn't cute enough for you, how about a Red Panda eating a homemade hot cross bun (a traditional Easter confection in the U.K.)?

Red Panda hot cross bun 😋 #easter #endangeredanimals #hotcrossbun #cuteanimals #crunchasmr

I'm not sure who's sweeter, the devoted keepers providing the treats or the animals enjoying them.

Lemurs are small, wet-nosed primates, with the most common and recognizable being the ring-tailed. The most famous lemur has to be King Julien from the wildly popular Madagascar movies, voiced by Sacha Baron Cohen and animated as quite the dancer. And while I cannot vouch for their actual dancing abilities, I can report that Madagascar – the country, not the film – is the only habitat where wild lemurs are found. And there are over 100 different species ranging from tiny to kid-sized. 

Lemurs are among the oldest primates on Earth, with roots going back over 70 million years. Socially, lemur life is a matriarchy. Female lemurs run the show—taking the best food, the best spots (the best Easter eggs), and not asking nicely about it.

Related: Man Serenades Sun Bear, and the Finale Is Incredible

They’re also doing important work behind the scenes. Lemurs are major seed spreaders, meaning they help grow and maintain entire forests just by going about their day. Nature’s little gardeners.

Then there’s the wildly weird stuff:

• Some lemurs have actual blue eyes (rare for primates)
• Some self-medicate… by eating millipedes
• Some sing like a full-on a cappella group ("I like to move it, move it!")
• Others settle arguments with literal “stink fights” by mixing aromas from their scent glands and directing them at rivals.

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Everyone needs a squad, even a baby and a Chihuahua (or two Chihuahuas in this case).

In a new adorable video from @shelby_salmela, the mom of two black-and-white Chihuahuas and now a newborn human daughter is seen rolling into their kitchen with the baby in the stroller and the dogs on the lower shelf of the stroller.

Accompanied by the music of Chamillionaire's hit song "Ridin,'," it is quite a scene.

The two Chihuahuas are named Katie and Grace. Not sure how old these ladies are, but we do know Grace is blind, and she is awesome.

Can’t leave anyone behind! #fyp #chihuahuastiktok #postpartum #newborn #nunastroller

This is clearly a stroller for a human baby, but with a perfect compartment for Chihuahuas; many dogs do like and actually need a nice stroller ride.

“Strollers can be very useful for dogs who still want to enjoy walks with their [pet parents], but are unable to walk for one reason or another," said Jonathan S. Block, DVM, founder of West Delray Veterinary in Florida.

If dogs have mobility issues or an illness, a stroller is a wonderful option for getting them outside for their daily walks without putting more strain on their health.

And yes, they definitely make some top-of-the-line strollers for pups, like this one from Tavo Pets, which can also function as a car seat for dogs, as it's compatible with their Maeve + Dupree series.

Related: Tiny Chihuahua's Speedy Zoomies Rival Olympic Sprinters Everywhere

This is a great account for seeing two cute Chihuahuas, especially if you like to see dogs pretend human baby stuff was meant for them.

In another video, we see Katie on the baby's pillow and using her blanket.

I can’t keep her off it! #fyp #chihuahuas #momtok #dogsoftiktok #chihuahua

So why do dogs love baby stuff?

Similar to cats, dogs are curious and are very interested in this new, smelly creature who has entered their home with a lot of stuff.

And it is actually very smart to let your pup become familiar with all the new things that will be in your house for the new baby, like the crib, bassinet, and stroller.

Clearly, Katie and Gracie are quite comfortable with all the baby things.

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Some puppies are smaller than others. Bunker the English Cocker Spaniel? He's so tiny that his mama had to get creative about keeping him safe.

There's a TikTok where the unique solution is revealed, and honestly, it’s genius. The caption reads "Cmon! Watch where you are going!" which is directed at anyone who might accidentally step on this itty bitty, nearly there puppy.

The POV text says:"You are so little you need a balloon so people don't step on you," and that's exactly what's happeningin the video.

Bunker's got a balloon tied to him. Like a tiny, adorable, four-legged parade float. So people can see where he is at all times and avoid stepping on him.

Cmon! Watch where you are going! #englishcockerspaniel #puppy #dog #puppies

The comments are full of people having feelings about this tiny situation.

"Only 3 apples tall 🥹" somebody wrote, creating a new measurement system specifically for Bunker's height.

"Why am I feeling maternal" because tiny things activate protective instincts.

"She is adorable and I want to snuggle her," the universal response.

"Get her a cat collar with a bell. That's what I did for my baby when she was that little because she likes to be underfoot" offering alternative tracking solutions for underfoot puppies.

Related: Pit Bull Family 'Chasing People' Call for Help Takes Unexpected Turn

Bunker's so small that without that balloon, he's genuinely at risk of getting stepped on by passers by. He's petite, he's quiet, and he's apparently exactly the right size to be practically invisible to anyone above knee level.

Mom's genius solution? Balloon tracking device. Absolutley brilliant.

Here's why Bunker's size makes sense: Cocker Spaniels—both English and American varieties—are the tiniest members of the Sporting classification. They were bred as working hunting dogs, specifically to flush out birds like woodcock, but they're compact.

In the early days of separating spaniel varieties, breeders actually used weight as the deciding factor. Any spaniel weighing 28 pounds or under got designated as a Cocker Spaniel.

English Cocker Spaniels are technically a totally different breed from American Cocker Spaniels. English Cockers traditionally have longer snouts and a slightly different overall look compared to their American counterparts, who tend to have rounder heads.

But when they're puppies? Both English and American Spaniels start out incredibly tiny. And Bunker's at that stage where he's so tiny that normal household traffic presents genuine stepping hazards.

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The balloon solution is not only adorable, it’s perfect. It's visible, it moves with him without encumbering him, and the bobbing balloon alerts everyone to his location without requiring any extra effort from Bunker himself.

At "only 3 apples tall," Bunker needs all the help he can get staying visible when underfoot. This simple fix is doing its job. People know where he is. Nobody's stepping on him and that’s the very point.

Genius solution for a tiny problem—literally.

Bunker's safe, mama's clever, and everyone on the internet now knows that three apples is an official unit of measurement for extremely small English Cocker Spaniel 

puppies.

There are some animal friendships that make sense, and then there are the ones that stop you mid-scroll because your brain needs a second to process what you’re looking at.

This is one of those. And somehow it gets even sweeter the longer you watch.

the cutest thing ive ever seen 😍🐓🐈 #chickentok #chickens #kitty #yardbirds #myshayla

TikTok user @cheyy.bicee shared the clip showing a Tabby kitten in a yard with a chicken, and instead of keeping his distance or doing literally anything normal, he walks right up, stretches his little paws out, and wraps them around the chicken’s neck like he has been waiting all day for this moment.

Then he just… stays there. Rubbing his face against the chicken, holding on, like this is his emotional support bird.

Related: Tabby Cat Steals Newborn Puppies and Decides They’re Her Babies

People in the comments were completely melted by it. One person wrote, “I’ve never seen anything cuter in my life,” which honestly feels fair. Another said, “This is the cutest thing I’ve seen this year,” which is a bold claim, but I am not arguing.

Others shared their own very similar experiences, which somehow make this feel less like a one-off and more like a thing. One person wrote, “Our cat is OBSESSED with our chickens. Her favorite thing to do is a dirt bath in the yard with them… so our Black Cat comes in brown every night,” which is such a vivid image.

Another said, “I have some kitties raised by a chicken, and they seriously pester her with love, constantly rubbing on her,” and now I am realizing this might just be how some cats decide to express affection.

And then there were the people who were like, yes, this tracks, “Yessss!! Our cats and chickens are friends, too!” which… OK. New category unlocked.

My kitty would absolutely try this once, get pecked, and then act like the chicken betrayed him personally, so I'm not sure I see chickens in my future.

If you plan to keep a barncat I recommend introducing a young cat to full grown chickens. We introduced Scully to the flock when he was just a little guy and he does great with them! #chickens #barncat #orangecat #catsandchickens

Surprisingly, yes, cats and chickens can coexist peacefully, and sometimes even form bonds like this. It often depends on the individual animals, their personalities, and how they are introduced to each other.

Kittens, especially, are more likely to see other animals as companions rather than prey, particularly if they are raised around them. The Tabby in this video looks pretty young, which could explain why he is so comfortable getting this close and affectionate.

Chickens can also become used to cats over time, especially in calm, low-stress environments where neither feels threatened. As long as both animals are supervised and interactions stay gentle, friendships like this can develop naturally.

That said, every situation is different, and it's always important to keep an eye on their behavior to make sure both animals feel safe. But judging from this clip and the comments, it is definitely possible… and apparently a lot cuter than anyone expected.

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Niall Harbison works miracles on the streets of Thailand through his animal rescue, Happy Doggo. Rescuing and rehabilitating abandoned and abused dogs since 2021, Harbison comes across many severely injured canines where survival seems almost impossible. Yet the resilience and bravery of these dogs often defy the odds.

Bambino is an extremely tiny dog with a huge amount of inner strength. The stray pup was seriously injured by a car, but thanks to his courage and the help of a young girl with a big heart, the precious pooch got a new leash on life.

Harbison shared Bambino's story in a recent Instagram post, along with photos of the sweet dog and the young heroic girl who cared for him in his time of need.

"He was the tiniest little dog in the Thai jungle who’d been hit by a car and was being looked after by a young girl," the caption explained. "He had multiple injuries and was lucky to be alive."

The onscreen text described how Bambino's leg was badly injured and he suffered from a hernia. The local girl who tended to him even built a makeshift "hospital" for him that included a cozy bed with blankets and toys.

Harbison knew that Bambino had so much life left to live and committed to his recovery. He even promised to find the little pup a forever home.

With lots of medical care, patience, love, and affection, Bambino not only survived but thrived. Six months after being hit by a car, he was beginning his new chapter in life.

"Today @beingbambino is trying on his little backpack for a trip to his forever home in England with his new family," the story continued. "He’s one of the gentlest and kindest boys I’ve ever met."

Bambino overcame so many challenges and now gets to enjoy the life he truly deserves.

"I always think about the life that nearly didn't survive, but now a life that will get to bask in the love of a family," the caption noted. "The laughs. The cuddles. The treats. The sheer joy that a dog can bring to a household."

Harbison concluded the post praising the sweet pup: "Well done Bambino, you made it."

Related: Senior Rescue Dachshund Celebrates 21st Birthday and Gets Official 'Legal Age' ID

Harbison launched Happy Doggo in 2021. In addition to the sterilization and daily feeding of thousands of street dogs, he recently opened a full-service medical clinic in honor of his beloved Golden Retriever, Tina, and a retirement village for senior dogs.

Learn more about Happy Doggo or make a donation by visiting their website or social media accounts on Instagram, YouTube, and TikTok.

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One of the unfortunate truths in life is that we can't decide who a pet's favorite person is. As much as we want to be "the one," they have their own secret guidelines to determine who gets the coveted title. Though dogs and cats can be a bit more free with how many humans they like, some birds are a lot more particular.

Bandit, the Cockatoo, is the man of the hour, and it's all because, despite Mom's attempts to keep him occupied and content, he's only thinking about one thing: playing with Dad. This is one of those videos that's a little too relatable for any parent who's ever been the spare human!

my job is constantly #redirecting #banditthecockatoo because we live in a #frat house & the #talkingparrot vs #brother is exhausting

The clip is more than 3 minutes of Mom trying her absolute hardest to distract the funny Cockatoo, with him ignoring her and begging to play the chase game with Dad! It's no secret Bandit is a huge fan of Dad, and it's largely because they engage in this wild playtime!

To make the scene even more hilarious, Bandit repeatedly says, "I Dad's bird," then he gloats with a diabolical laugh after Dad gives him a few minutes of attention. This is one clever Cockatoo who knows what he wants and exactly how to get it!

Related: Cockatoo's 'Midday Rant Session' Is an Adorable Monday Mood

Each and every day, Bandit wakes up with the same thought: "when can I play with Dad?" When he's not pleading with Mom, talking about his favorite guy, or pretending to be redirected (while still plotting), he's 100% busy stalking Dad for fun. He really does love these moments!

daddy's little #stalker #banditthecockatoo has #daddyissues #talkingparrot #parrot

Technically, Cockatoos like Bandit are capable of bonding with both human parents if they choose, but they're notorious for selecting one lucky person and making sure everyone knows that's their person!

This is because in the wild, they're monogamous birds who form lifelong pairs. They're still affectionate with the flock (or other household members), but their extremely high intelligence mixed with how social they are means they'll likely pursue one person they're obsessed with.

In Bandit's case, it's the one and only Dad, and how lucky is he to be at the receiving end of all that love!

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Believe it or not, even the most laidback dogs will experience anxiety at some point, making it important to know what to do to help calm a stressed dog. After all, as a pet parent you want to do everything you can to ensure your pup is happy, relaxed and comfortable. However, in those moments, it can be hard to think on your feet. The good news is, there happens to be one sound that experts say can instantly calm dogs down.

Having reliable dog calming strategies on hand is important because they can help in multiple situations—from soothing a dog with anxiety to helping your dog get settled for bed or quiet time. "You never know when you might need to help your dog calm down,” says Elisha Stynchula, CPDT-KA, certified dog trainer and owner of I Said Sit School for Dogs.

While you've probably picked up some tricks along the way to help your dog relax when they are feeling unhappy, there’s actually one sound in particular that seems to help calm dogs down, and it’s backed by research. Naturally, there are a few caveats to keep in mind here. Though pet experts say that being aware of the potential impact of this sound and having it in your back pocket can go a long way toward helping you navigate anxious or hyped-up scenarios with your pup. Just remember, it may take some practice before it reaches peak effectiveness with your furry friend. Ready to see what it is? You might be surprised!

Related: 6 Colors Dogs Secretly Hate & Why, According to a Trainer

Dogs have incredibly sensitive hearing, far beyond what humans can perceive, which is why certain sounds can immediately grab their attention or trigger a response. High-pitched noises, steady rhythms, or repetitive tones can either excite or soothe them depending on the context and a dog’s past experiences.

Their reactions are also shaped by instinct as dogs have evolved to respond quickly to environmental cues for safety and communication. For example, sounds associated with danger, like sudden bangs, can spike anxiety, while soothing noises signal that everything is okay. Understanding this helps owners choose the right sounds to calm their dog effectively and make them feel safe and relaxed.

Elayne Massaini

What’s the fastest way to calm an anxious dog or reduce stress in dogs? The answer might shock you: soft, soothing music. Research has shown that certain types of calming dog music can significantly reduce dog anxiety, lower heart rate and encourage relaxation. Multiple studies confirm that dogs respond positively to soothing melodies for dogs, making music one of the easiest and most effective dog calming techniques to help your furry friend feel safe and relaxed.

Whether it’s during a thunderstorm, fireworks, vet visit, or stressful trip, playing the right relaxing music for dogs can create a comforting environment your dog will love. With this simple method, you can help your pup reduce anxiety, relax faster, and stay calm in any stressful situation.

A 2012 study conducted by Lori Kogan, PhD, a professor of clinical sciences for the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Colorado State University, looked at the impact of classical music, heavy metal, and other forms of music on 117 dogs in a kennel. Kogan and her team discovered that the dogs spent more time sleeping and less time vocalizing when they listened to classical music compared to other forms of music or no music. But a study published in the journal Physiology & Behavior found that dogs in a kennel were more relaxed and showed lower signs of stress when they listened to soft rock or reggae music. “The right music is proven to lower cortisol, the stress hormone, in dogs,” says Stynchula. “This is a great, easy way to help your dog through stressful times.”

While Kogan’s research found that classic music had the best results, she suggests seeing how the music you like impacts your dog when you’re together. “Your dog will sense this connection between enjoyable moments with their human and whatever type of music you choose,” she says. “The music may be soothing for them.”

If you've ever wondered how to calm an anxious dog, Kogan recommends pairing your music with a routine or behavior that you want from your dog. “As you start settling in for your evening and you put on classical music, your dog will pair that with the activity that we’re winding down now,” she says. “That’s a routine that dogs can understand: We eat dinner, we listen to classical music and we slow down.” 

Stynchula suggests mixing the music up a little bit as you go. “I wouldn’t use the same album or playlist too much, as dogs can habituate to it and it could lose efficacy,” she says. But, if you have a potentially stressful event coming up for your dog, like a person coming to service an area of your home, she suggests putting on soothing music and pairing it with an activity like a lick mat to help your dog settle. 

Music won’t cure every type of anxiety your dog will experience, and more extreme anxieties like thunderstorms will likely require more intensive intervention, Kogan says. But experts recommend trying out soothing or laidback music with your dog and gauging their reaction. “See how your dog reacts to different music and use it accordingly,” Kogan says. 

• Elisha Stynchula, CPDT-KA, certified dog trainer and owner of I Said Sit School for Dogs
• Lori Kogan, PhD, a professor of clinical sciences for the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences at Colorado State University

Animal control most certainly gets more than it’s fair share of 'interesting calls. But "mama dog and puppies chasing people"sounds more alarming than what actually transpired on the scene. 

There's a TikTok from @animalwelfareguy where he responds to that exact call. The caption reads, "Call came in for a mama dog and puppies chasing after people. I mean…maybe like to play? 😂 All of the dogs were returned to their owner who didn't know they had a hole in the fence. Nice easy call!"

What happens next is basically a study in contrasts between a protective Pit Bull mama and her enthusiastic pittie puppies.

The officer arrives and immediately starts talking gently to her: "Oh, mama, hey, hey. Hi. Hi, hi, hi. Oh, my goodness."

Call came in for a mama dog and puppies chasing after people. I mean…maybe like to play? 😂 All of the dogs were returned to their owner who didn’t know they had a hole in the fence. Nice easy call! #animalwelfare #animalrescue #animalcontrol #dog #puppies

Mama Pit Bull's cautious. Afterall, these are her babies. She's absolutely doing her mama due diligence—keeping her babies safe from this stranger. She does not know him. The puppies? Different energy completely.

"Oh, my goodness, little babies. Hi. It's okay, mama." The officer maintains his calm voice, reassuring her that he’s just there to help.

Then: "I got peed on by all the babies."

Because the puppies are excited and sometimes new friends trigger puppy tinkles. New friend! Exciting! While they're covering him in love, mama's just trying to assess whether or not her babies are safe.

The comments captured the mama pit bull energy perfectly.

"Mom: 'YOU WON'T TAKE US ALIVE' puppies: 'A FRIENDDDDDDD🥰'" nailed the contrast.

Related: French Bulldog Won't Stop Swaying on His Deck—'Money Well Spent'

"Momma doing everything but getting near the noose and all the puppies snagging it left right and center 😂🤣💀" because the puppies have zero survival instincts and complete trust.

"Mom: DON'T TALK TO STRANGERS! Puppies: FRIENDDDDDD 😭😭😭😂," same energy. Apparently, children of all species have selective hearing syndrome. 

"Those puppies got her stressed trying to keep everyone safe 😭" because mama's working overtime here.

But the officer maintains his composure. Continues to use a tender but firm voice with the family of Pit Bulls. Moves slowly. Eventually, Mama starts to soften and lower her guard. She realizes he's not a threat to her family. He's kind and will take care of them.

All the dogs returned home safely and the hole in the fence was fixed.

Here's what's happening with mama's behavior: mother dogs (just like human mothers) are biologically wired to protect their litters. During and after pregnancy, hormones like prolactin trigger heightened protectiveness. Oxytocin—the bonding hormone—reinforces attachment so strongly that mama can't stop checking on her babies, positioning herself around them, and keeping them safe always.

That sniffing, nuzzling, and constant awareness she is displaying? That's pure oxytocin-driven bonding. Mama's identified each puppy individually and her biological response is to guard them.

The puppies, meanwhile, haven't developed their self-preservation, protective instinct yet. They just see a friendly human making nice sounds.

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What made this call all work out is the officer's gentle approach. He stayed calm, spoke gently, and let mama see that he wasn't a threat. That reassurance allowed her to relax enough to accept his help with her puppies.

Pit Bulls get unfair reputations as being aggressors. But, this mama protecting her puppies while they just wanted to play? That's normal, healthy dog behavior.

The "chasing" was probably just curious, friendly puppies being puppies. Mama was just being the best mom she could be in this new situation.

There are brave dogs, silly dogs, dramatic dogs, and then there is Hugo, a Golden Retriever who has apparently decided the moon is a personal problem.

In this video, Hugo is in the living room getting comforted by his dad because that big glowing thing in the sky is, for reasons known only to Hugo, absolutely unacceptable. He keeps looking at it with the kind of worried intensity usually reserved for suspicious vacuum cleaners and delivery trucks. Except this time, the enemy is the moon. The actual moon.

Send help fwends 😱🌕 #funnydogs #goldenretriever #dogsoftiktok #dogtok #scareddog

And honestly?

Bless his heart.

The post caption says, “Send help fwends 😱🌕,” which feels so right. Because what are you even supposed to do when your beautiful Golden Retriever is emotionally losing to celestial objects? Hugo is not being a little uneasy. He is clearly deeply bothered, and the fact that his dad is there soothing him somehow makes the whole thing even sweeter.

What makes the clip so funny is that Hugo keeps glancing back at the moon like it might have moved while he was not looking. There is this mix of suspicion, offense, and mild existential dread on his face that only a Golden could deliver with such sincerity. He looks like he is trying to understand why someone left that giant glowing treat in the sky where no one can retrieve it.

The comments absolutely rose to the occasion. One person wrote, “He knows something we don't!” which is funny because, at least for a second, Hugo really does make it seem like the moon may have done something deeply sinister. Another said, “The thing I cannot retrieve is back. My greatest failure.” That one is almost too perfect. If any breed would take the moon personally because it cannot be fetched, it would absolutely be a Golden Retriever.

That is why this video works so well. It is weird, relatable, and emotional all at once. A dog being scared of the moon should not be this compelling, and yet here we are, fully invested in Hugo’s one-sided celestial feud. Maybe it is the comfort from Dad. Maybe it is Hugo’s very earnest face. Maybe it is just the fact that dogs make even their strangest fears feel completely real.

Either way, this one is impossible not to love.

Hugo may never make peace with the moon, but he has definitely won over the internet. And frankly, if the moon wanted better PR, it should have tried not being so suspicious-looking.

Hugo’s moon issue is funny, but the fear itself is still real to him. VCA notes that frightened dogs may pace, fidget, freeze, hide, or seek comfort, and that the best response is not to force them closer to what scares them but to help them feel safe and calm instead. 

If your dog gets spooked by something odd, whether it is the moon, a statue, or a trash can that suddenly feels sinister, it helps to stay calm, avoid scolding, give them distance, and reward relaxed behavior once they settle.

Honestly, Hugo looked at that moon like it had just texted “u up?” from 238,900 miles away.

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Related: Golden Retriever Storms Off Like a Moody Teenager When Mom Says ‘No More Treats’

A couple of years ago, a tiny kitten appeared outside our garage. Terrified and shivering, hidden behind a trash can in the rain. It's a good thing I happened to look out the window at that exact moment because the adorable, smart, and funny Tortoiseshell kitty found her forever home with us, and I wouldn't trade that for anything.

So, whenever I come across other Torties, I have to stop and marvel. These felines are known for being pretty impressive, whether it's their intelligence, or in one cat named Violet's case, performing some cool tricks!

#violet #singingcat #tricks #cat #smart

I do have a soft spot in my heart for all the wild and wacky Tortoiseshells out there, but Violet is one of my favorites. Though she's known on the web as the "singing cat," she can now add "cabinet-shutting kitty!" I don't think there's a single thing Violent can't do—she's just so impressive!

Related: Big Girl Tortie-Calico Mix Sits Just Like a Human and People Can't Get Enough

As if closing a door and performing duets with Mom aren't enough, the talented cat is working hard on learning other tricks for the masses. In another post, you can see how well this sweet girl listens, does the command, and seems to fully understand the assignment. Dare I say, "Violet for President?"

#violet #singingcat #cattricks #mew #cat

We've all heard the folklore surrounding Black Cats, but there's also some interesting backstory about Torties. In some cultures, they're considered the symbol of good luck, associated with prosperity, protection, and fortune. They even have the nickname "money cats," believed to bring great wealth to whoever's path they cross.

Scottish and Irish lore suggests that letting a Tortoisehell cat enter your home is a definite sign of good luck. Whether it's because of their gorgeous kaleidoscope-like coloring, the fact that they're almost always female, or their epic "Tortitude," it's clear these are the felines for all things good and prosperous!

Perhaps finding my Tortie that random day was kismet. Even though my "money cat" hasn't brought in the dough, she sure is special—and so is Violet for all her talents!

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I’m not gonna lie, if you are even a little sensitive to, er, ummm… eating sounds, this one might test you. Because the audio is doing a lot here.

But if you can get past that, the actual situation is so weirdly wholesome you kind of just accept it.

its easy to get mixed up between a pigs ear and a bull terrier ear .. not that he minds at all 🤣🥰 #englishbullterrier #standardpoodle #bullterrier #poodlelover #dogfriends

TikToker @user7560751101708 shared a video of a black Standard Poodle fully committed to licking and gently chewing on his Bull Terrier brother’s ear as if it were a premium chew toy. Completely locked in.

And the Bull Terrier? Just lying there. Not resisting. Not confused. Just… accepting this as part of his day. Tail wagging nonstop.

The caption jokes that it’s easy to get mixed up between a pig’s ear and a Bull Terrier ear, and honestly, that is exactly the weirdo vibe here.

Related: Dachshund With No Concept of Personal Space Uses Mom’s Hair as a Blanket

People in the comments were both horrified and fascinated. One person wrote, “It’s like he’s chewing on ham or something,” which… yeah, that is unfortunately accurate.

Others were more focused on the vibe, like, “And he’s still waggling his tail,” and “He's very much enjoying it, look at the wagging tail, and blissful expression,” which really tells you everything you need to know about how the Bull Terrier feels about this activity.

Then there was, "Bull Terrier lyin' there like, 'OK :) yayyyy :)'" which is the most perfect interpretation of his energy. Just completely unbothered.

And of course, “Bull Terriers are the sunfish of the land,” which is such a specific comparison but somehow makes sense once you see it.

Also, IMO, the level of trust required to just let your sibling do this is kind of impressive. Could not be me.

Image via iStock/xxmmxx

Dogs lick each other for a variety of reasons, and most of the time, it's completely normal social behavior. It can be a way of bonding, showing affection, or reinforcing relationships within a household.

Licking and gentle teething are also part of grooming behavior. Dogs will often clean each other, especially around the face and ears, as a way of caring for one another. In multi-dog homes, this can become a regular interaction.

Sometimes it can also be a sign of excitement or comfort. If one dog enjoys the attention and the other enjoys giving it, you end up with situations like this, where both pups seem perfectly content.

As long as both dogs are relaxed and there are no signs of stress or irritation, this kind of behavior is usually nothing to worry about… even if it is a little strange to watch.

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Many rescue dogs carry a history of abuse and trauma. They need lots of compassion and patience to acclimate to new surroundings and overcome deep-seated emotional wounds. Animal advocate Isabel Klee has fostered over 30 dogs, each with physical and behavioral challenges, and knows how to help these fearful fur babies learn to trust.

Marmie is Klee's most recent foster, who comes from a very troubled past. The little pooch is finding her way into normal life and conquering her fears of everyday objects.

I love seeing her figure out the world 🥹 @Muddy Paws Rescue

Klee explained some details on Marmie's background that shed light on why she's so fearful and anxious about common items.

"My foster dog, Marmie, came from a cruelty situation," Klee said in the TikTok from @simonsits as she held Marmie. "She has lived her entire life feeling scared and nervous, and she has not been exposed to many things in her life."

The foster mom noticed in these early days that Marmie can feel threatened by objects that cause no danger.

"This means that since having her, there have been a few things that have surprised us," Klee continued. "And most recently, she decided that she was very suspicious of my coffee mug."

The video then showed Marmie barking at the coffee mug, with a nervous look on her face. Klee gave her a red tennis ball to play with so she would feel less threatened.

The foster pooch slowly got curious about the cup as Klee tried to gently present it to her, showing her there was no danger.

"It's just coffee," Klee reassured. "Wanna come see? Come here."

It took a little time, but Marmie eventually approached the cup and gave it a few sniffs.

Related: Rescue Dog Considered 'Too Old and Sick' Transforms Into 'Perfect' Pooch'

"See? It's nothing scary," Klee told her, and praised Marmie for her bravery.

Then, Klee carefully drank from the coffee mug as the canine cutie sat beside her. Marmie felt the positive affirmations and covered her foster mom with kisses.

Klee's love and patience are helping Marmie gain more courage each day and learn that she doesn't need to be afraid anymore. This foster fur baby is sure to flourish under Klee's care.

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When you look good, you feel good, and it shows!

One gorgeous Golden Retriever knows she is pretty as a picture with flowers in her fur.

Take a look at this super-sweet video, and you’ll see this Golden giving springtime princess energy. If this fluffy gal is in a wedding party, she is definitely going to upstage the bride and her attendants. (Sorry, but it's true. Look at this beauty!)

#dog #prettydog

Doesn't this remind you of a friend coming out of a fitting room in the perfect dress? We love how this little style icon makes such a slow and graceful entrance, like, "You're going to need a minute to really appreciate my look, so I'll take my time."

It appears as if she's smiling when she fully enters the room. What a precious pup!

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Of course, viewers were fawning over this vision of loveliness.

"'Mom, can I come in and show you my flowers?!?'—her probably," one fan imagined this Golden's thoughts.

Related: Golden Retriever Doing Tricks Like a Seal Has the Internet Clearly Impressed

"OMG🥰 that's the girliest girl Golden Retriever I've seen🥺 She's gorgeous," another commented.

It's true, she really is so pretty!

 "Is she the bride???" another person asked.

Great question. We'd love to know where she's headed, looking so fine. You don't want to waste this look on the dog park, just sayin'.

Related: Two Golden Retrievers Chewing One Tennis Ball Have Everyone Watching

Pets are important family members, so it makes sense that you'd want to include them in your special occasion. But much like toddlers (and drunken uncles), dogs don't always behave the way we'd hoped when the big day arrives.

If you want to include your pet, experts recommend having a designated person there to make sure your dog or cat is comfortable and cared for throughout the ceremony and/or reception. It's a good idea to bring your pet to the venue to let them get acquainted with the sights, sounds, and smells.

Because even the most social among us can tire easily at these events, experts also recommend keeping your pet's appearance brief. A walk down the aisle is wonderful, but maybe don't count on your pup to attend the after-party.

Something tells us this gorgeous Golden is going to steal hearts wherever she goes!

I have two Orange Cats, and they could not be more different. Meatball is my 2-year-old, 24-pound Maine Coon who moves through life like a confident wrecking ball, and then there’s Tarkus, my 12-year-old senior orange boy who is skinny, independent, and mostly just tolerates the existence of the other cats.

Tarkus does not play. At least not with others. He’ll do his own thing, have his own little moment, and that’s it. So the idea of him willingly engaging in anything resembling group activity already feels suspicious. That's why seeing the two kitties below just getting it on like Donkey Kong brings me so much joy. Cats playing is the absolute best. Two giant orange boys going at it is even better.

Sumo Wrestling Thursday!

TikTok user @brennencarr342 shared a clip of two extremely large Orange Cats slowly sumo wrestling each other into what can only be described as a pile of floof. It is not fast. It is not graceful. It is just… mass meeting mass.

And somehow that makes it better.

Related: Orange Cat and Bearded Dragon Are the Most Chaotic Besties

People in the comments were absolutely losing it over the sheer amount of orange happening at once. One person called them “two cheese puffs at battle,” which is honestly perfect. Another wrote, “This is the laziest fight ever,” and yes, there is zero urgency here.

Others leaned into the size of the situation, like, “2 tons of fun over there,” and “What in the Squishmallow is going on over there?” which feels deeply accurate. These kitties do look like Squishmallows.

Then there was, “Two Dorito Double Stuffed Nacho Bel Grandes fighting in the living room. I’m putting all my money on the orange one,” which is chaos and also somehow makes sense.

And of course, “I think they need a wrestling ring, or sumo wrestler ring,” which honestly feels like the next logical step.

Image Via: OlegDoroshin/Shutterstock

First of all, I would never fat-shame a cat. Big cats are the best. More to love, more to cuddle, more presence. Truly, no notes.

That said, there is a difference between a naturally large kitty and a cat carrying extra weight that could affect their health. One of the easiest ways to check is by feeling along their sides. You should be able to feel their ribs without pressing too hard, even if you cannot see them.

From above, most cats should have a slight waistline behind their ribs. From the side, their belly should not hang excessively low or swing when they walk. Changes in activity level, grooming habits, or difficulty jumping can also be signs that weight is impacting them.

If you are ever unsure, a quick check-in with your vet can help you figure out what is healthy for your specific cat. And in the meantime, regular play, portion control, and interactive toys can help keep them active without taking away their joy.

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Everybody loves kittens, right? There's just nothing not to love about them, especially from afar. While I don't know that I could handle the kitten crazies myself, I love watching people go through them, and I love watching kittens grow up!

Mama cats love their kittens even more than humans do, though. Just look at this precious new mama Maine Coon, who loves to make biscuits on her new kittens. She's so smitten with those kittens that they might need to keep them all:

The kittens are 3 weeks old now! #mainecoon #kitten #cutekitten #kittensoftiktok #cattok

Wild Mane Maine Coons has some of the coolest, prettiest cats around. They're gorgeous every time, and even more, they're very affectionate. Whether the kittens they're loving on are their own or somebody else's, it doesn't matter.

The kittens in their cattery grow up with tons of help from all of the adult cats, which makes for some very well-loved, well-rounded kittens. When they're ready to go to their forever homes, they're wonderful additions!

Related: Super Sweet ‘Polar Bear Maine Coon’ Has the Prettiest Fur

This mama's name is Honey, and she's absolutely stunning. She's also rare: she's an orange female! Around 80% of orange cats are male, so it's always fun to see a female with this coloring... Especially when she's one of the prettiest cats ever:

Honey is the multitasking queen. Nursing 5 babies + bathing them + bathing herself #mainecoon #mamacat #mainecoonkittens #cutekitten #kittensoftiktok

Wrangling all of her kittens is definitely tough, and now that they're a few weeks old, it's getting even harder. Maine Coon kittens grow way faster than a regular kitten, so they become handfuls much quicker.

When it comes to the father of a litter, he typically doesn't really feel any sort of way about his kittens. Sometimes he might want to play with them, or in other cases, he could feel threatened by them.

Image via Shutterstock / Nadia Cruzova

For female cats, though, they genuinely love their kittens, and they often refuse to allow anyone else to care for them at all. Even their favorite humans are often turned away or hissed at when they try to get close to their kittens! If you really need to pick one up:

• Move very slowly.
• Don't start yelling or squealing loudly; speak softly.
• Always pet mama first; if she responds well to you, odds are, you'll have an easier time.
• Wait until after they've eaten.
• Keep them within her eyesight whenever you can.

Just be careful, kind, and considerate. You always want her to feel comfortable!

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I would love a Sphynx cat. My top three favorite cat breeds are the Maine Coon, the Ragdoll, and the Sphynx cat. That lineup makes no sense, but it's just how I feel! Fluffy cats are awesome, but there's something special about the hairless babies, too!

Well, at least I wanted one until I saw this video. The Sphynx cat in this home decided it wasn't warm enough, so he turned the heat all the way up to 90 degrees. His mom says he "yearns for the Sahara," and she is 100% correct:

Inhabited by the spirit of an immigrant father #cat #sphynx #moneysavingtips

I grew up in a "never even look at the thermostat" household, so to see @eyecanthus so freely messing with it is crazy! If I turned the heat up to 90 degrees, even for a second, I think my life would have flashed before my eyes!

Related: Fluffy Maine Coon ‘Shares His Fur’ With Chilly Sphynx Kitten

This boy is pretty new to his home and to TikTok, but already, we can tell that he's a lot to handle. In this video, he's become "inhabited by the spirit of an immigrant father," turning the thermostat up as high as it will go. He's lucky she was right there to notice!

In other videos, the cat is committing other crimes. Namely, he's decided he wants to be a pro-wrestler. The first person on his list, of course, is mom. She was not expecting any of this when she adopted him, but it's what she got:

Help he’s got me in a rear naked chokehold #violenceisnottheanswer #cat #sphynx #wrestling #funny

That is the funniest thing ever. Though this exact thing hasn't happened to me, I know all about getting a pet, thinking you're getting a baby, and instead getting an absolute menace. If your pet is a brat, you've done a great job!

This cat definitely wasn't aware that what he was doing would make the house warmer: he probably just saw a fun screen and decided to play with it. However, the way it played out definitely tracks. Sphynx cats love to be warm!

Image via Shutterstock / Gera Photo

Sphynx cats have a layer of "peach fuzz." They're able to keep warm to a certain extent, but they need some help. When it's cold out, you need to provide safe ways for them to get warm, or they'll take matters into their own hands. Try:

• Giving them a sweater.
• Having a heating pad for them to rest on.
• Making sure there are plenty of places for them to curl up.

Keeping the heat up a little in your house will help, too, but 90 degrees feels a little wild!

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Every time I look at my pets, I think of how many sweet babies are out on the street just trying to survive. The stray dog population is worse than ever—usually through no fault of their own—with many of them in need of a hero. So, when I see someone stepping up to take in a stray, it's my honor to highlight their rescue efforts.

Enter @kierstenlynnb, a devoted dog mom who drives around Houston, Texas, to find those in need. In a recent clip, she stumbled across one of the most precious pups I've ever seen, and he has the sweetest thank you.

We did it again! Another one saying goodbye to the street life🥲

The video shows Kiersten investigating an old, abandoned building where a stray dog has taken residence under some metal bars. He has severe skin issues, and his sad, defeated eyes stare up at her like he's all but given up on the hope of ever getting a happy ending.

But when she offers him some food and a few pets, the way he looks up at her is a literal silent "thank you," and it's a tearjerker. After some love and earning the good boy's trust, they pick him up and get him in the car, where he's safe, and he can finally exhale.

Related: Rescue Dog With Face of a Human Man Has Everyone Swooning

This is one of those rescue stories I'll be thinking about for a while. That darling baby deserves what so many strays do—a second chance. This dog isn't the first rescue, either.

My heart aches as I go through Kiersten's page, where she shares every rescue pup's story. It's impossible to pick a favorite, but while I'm waiting for an update on the sweet boy above, here's another post that will leave you sobbing.

Sweet Hopes story🥹🐾#foryou #fy #foryoupage #foru #viral #dog #dogsoftiktok #dogs #rescue #dogrescue

There are a million things I can say about the importance of adopting a shelter pup, but it's worth mentioning why helping a stray is just as important.

Nearly every pet I've had, save for one dog and one cat, has lived as a stray, and they found me at times when they, too, were hopeless and defeated. After bringing them home and providing all the basics (and a lot of love), they all had the storybook ending all strays deserve to have.

If you are ever met with a precious stray like the ones above, open your heart, if only to foster until their forever family comes along. They know who saved them, and they will spend the rest of their lives showing their gratitude.

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