Parade Pets

Video games are a favorite pastime of many, with options overflowing for every skill level. Whether it's on your computer, iPad, or phone, gaming draws users in to test everything from strategy to reflexes.

Even our fur babies are starting to get in on the action. Capo the Dachshund got a little overexcited when he tried his paw at Fruit Ninja and almost cracked his iPad.

In the Instagram video from @capoandtaya, the darling Doxie was decked out in a black-and-white gaming outfit and completely absorbed in the fruit-slicing game on the iPad. Capo jumped and pounced on the screen every time he saw those fruits fly and even tried destroying a few pieces with his mouth.

The fur baby got more and more frustrated as each piece of fruit got away from his grasp. Capo practically tried smashing through the screen, but to no avail. Despite his tireless efforts, the precious pooch couldn't pummel the produce.

Followers were mixed on their reviews of Capo's gaming skills, but appreciated his dedication:

• "I love how he starts as soon at it says 'go'," one pointed out.
• "I hope you have a screen protector," another noted.
• "He’s not very good but I see potential," a fan encouraged.
  
  "Bro is the Fruit Ninja," someone remarked.
• "Stick to Candy Crush, little pup," a fan advised.

Though they may not be able to turn on a device or download something specific, dogs can actually play certain video games. A study from the University of Veterinary Medicine in Vienna discovered that touchscreen and tablet games even helped dogs avoid mental decline during the aging process and lessened separation anxiety.

Related: Rare Dachshund-Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Mix Looks Exactly Like a Stuffed Animal

The study revealed benefits of dogs playing video games, especially for older canines, which included:

• Mood enhancement and cognitive ability
• Increased motivation to learn new skills
• Improved memory
• Reinforcement of the dog-parent relationship and bond
• Stress reduction, evidenced by lower levels of cortisol

Capo may still need some practice, but his commitment and strong work ethic show that he could soon master the game.

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Every parent eventually reaches the milestone of watching their child take the next big step toward independence, whether it's scooting, crawling, or taking those first wobbly steps. For sandhill cranes, that milestone is learning to fly.

Jackson Hole Eco Tour Adventures shared an adorable video, captured by one of their guides, @cariddiphoto, showing a pair of sandhill crane parents patiently encouraging their growing chick to flap its wings and practice for its first flight. The little bird watches Mom and Dad closely before giving it everything it's got, enthusiastically flapping away, even though it doesn't get any air. The wholesome lesson has viewers smiling from ear to ear, and it's the kind of video that's impossible to watch only once.

Jaclsin asks in the caption, "Does it get any cuter than this?" and everybody's answer is a resounding NO!

One commenter disagreed in the best way possible. "It actually does get even cuter! If you’ve ever been lucky enough to be in a field watching these birds do their thing, the chicks look insanely like tiny dinosaurs walking through the field." This is something we'd love to see!

Related: Orphaned Sandhill Crane Colt Finds New Mom and Dad in Heartwarming Rescue Story

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Baby sandhill cranes, called colts, can walk within hours of hatching, but learning to fly takes much more time and practice.

According to the Colorado Crane Conservation Coalition, colts spend weeks building strength in their legs and wings before making their first successful flights at around three months of age. During their first month, they begin flapping their wings. By the second month, they start "dancing" and practicing pre-flight movements. In the third month, they continue dancing while refining their takeoffs, landings, and flying skills alongside their parents.

The Southern Wisconsin Bird Alliance explains that cranes dance for three main reasons: to attract a mate by showing off their strength and fitness, to strengthen the bond between a mated pair, and to express aggression or defend their territory.

Watching this little colt practice reminds us that even nature's best fliers have to start somewhere.

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.

Interested in adding a unique feeder to your backyard that will attract entirely new species of beautiful birds? Then check out this exclusive deal at Tractor Supply Co. The Royal Wing Prefilled Finch Sock Bird Feeder is only $10, and buyers have great things to say about it.

This unique feeder is designed especially to attract finches of all varieties, like American Goldfinches, Lesser Finches, Purple Finches, House Finches, Common Redpolls, and Pine Siskins. The sock feeder is made of soft mesh that lets tiny finches cling to it while pulling out their favorite seeds. And the large surface area lets multiple birds use it at once.

And to make setting it up super easy for you, the sock feeder comes prefilled with Nyjer seeds, so all you have to do is hang it up and you're ready to go! The feeder is also simple to refill thanks to its drawstring opening, so you can use it over and over.

Courtesy of Tractor Supply Co

For best results, Tractor Supply recommends placing the feeder near a protective cover that's away from the wind, like low shrubbery or evergreens. And make sure the feeder is at least 10 feet from railings or fences, in order to avoid squirrels.

"About 5 to 6 feet off the ground is ideal," writes a Tractor Supply rep. "Also helpful is being near a clean water source like a birdbath, fountain, etc if possible."

The majority of buyers recommend this sock feeder. And at such a low price, you'll definitely want to give it a try.

They gush about how it really works at attracting the beautiful, small outdoor birds.

• "The American goldfinches love it! Several get on it at once and eat on it off and on all day long... For the price, this is such an easy and inexpensive way to feed and attract more varieties of birds."
• "Amazing. We have been getting tons of finches and buntings."
• "The outdoor red headed finches love to feed off this sock."

Tractor Supply offers online delivery and free in-store pickup where available.

Related: Tractor Supply's $10 Window Hummingbird Feeder Works Like 'Magic'

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.

If you want everyone who visits your home to know how much you love birds, then you should check out this sale at JCPenney. The Avanti Gilded Birds Bath Rug is now only $30 when it normally costs $55 — that's almost 50% off!

This classy bathroom rug coordinates beautifully with JCPenney's entire Avanti Gilded Bird set, which I've written about before. The elegant pieces include a bird-themed Shower Curtain, a Towel Set, and a Soap Dispenser and Wastebasket.

The bathroom rug is two-toned in color and measures 30 inches wide by 20 inches long .It's made of 100% cotton and is machine washable. It features a white cream color on one side and a darker tan shade on the right, with two embroidered birds in the center. JCPenney recommends pairing this with a non-slip pad beneath it.

One happy buyer writes that the rug "makes an interesting artistic statement." They continue, writing: "Its whimsical bird design and soft tones transformed our bath floor into an exotic eye catching focal point. The rug is of high quality with a soft luxurious feel."

Courtesy of JCPenney

Multiple people have written positive reviews about this rug on JCPenney's website. And while it's designed to be used in a bathroom, it would also look beautiful in your kitchen, in a bedroom, or in front of your front or back door.

• "I have this rug in front of my vessel sink and vanity. It adds to the beautiful statement of the entire set up."
• "Beautiful rug! The two embroidered bird on it are extraordinary! ... It just doesn't look like your ordinary bath rug... This rug is placed at our sliding back door. It looks stunning."
• "I love the earth tone colors in this rug contrasted with the bright birds. The rug is very plush and looks custom made."

The bottom line: at nearly 50% off, the Avanti Gilded Birds Bath Rug would make a great addition to your bathroom, or any other room in your home where you want to share your love of birds.

JCPenney offers easy shipping options and easy returns.

Related: JCPenney's 'Gorgeous' Bird-Themed Shower Curtain Makes Bathrooms 'Showroom Ready'

Related: JCPenney's 'Beautiful' Bird-Themed Soap Dispenser & Trashcan Make Any Room Elegant

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.

If you want your indoor cat to have a chance to play outside safely, then you'll want to check out this Walmart deal. The FurHaven Portable Mesh Playpen is just $22, and it comes with free shipping.

The lightweight, portable mesh patio gives your cat a comfy, contained space to play — whether you're outside, at home, or at a hotel. (It works great for dogs too!)

This playpen easily pops open to create an instant plapyen, and then twists and collapses closed for storage. It has a quick zippered entry with a toggle, and mesh panels for comfort and 360-degree views when outside.

This mesh catio is designed for medium to large cats, and also medium-sized dogs like pugs and corgis. It measures 29 inches tall, 42 inches wide, and 36 inches deep.

One happy buyer writes: "It's spacious enough for her tent bed, 3 bowls of food/water, a small litter box, and toys. The mesh is very resistant; no holes were made, even though my kitten claws it."

Courtesy of Walmart

Buyers rate this cute, portable playpen 4.5 out of 5 stars, with nearly 1,000 people giving it a perfect 5 out of 5 rating. One person calls it "perfect," saying that it's "really easy to set up" and also easy to "fold back up to put away." They said there was plenty of room to add a comfy bed and water dish for their pup while they recovered from an illness.

Here are a few things other people are saying:

• "Best purchase I ever made! ... I've used it to aid in schedule management and teaching my puppy when it's time to nap, eat, and sleep."
• "Get this kitty crib! ... The kittens have tried climbing the sides, and despite their sharp tiny claws, the mesh on the sides has held up beautifully."
• "My kitten loves this! It was perfect when I first brought him home for a safe spot and now we use it when I take him outside! Folds up nicely."

Walmart offers free shipping options and free 90-day returns.

Related: Walmart's Spacious Window Catio Lets Indoor Cats 'Have So Much Fun'

There is a Netflix documentary in development. The subject: a kidnapping. The victim: Elvis thegolden retriever. The alleged kidnapper: a woman in her 30s who thinks she birthed him. He's ready to tell his side of the story.

The TikTok from @thegoldenking1 opens with a caption that means business: "I'm ready to tell my story."

Four words. The documentary begins.

The text overlay delivers the full accusation: "POV: Preparing for my Netflix documentary on how I got kidnapped at 9 weeks old by a crazy girl in her 30s who thinks she birthed me."

I’m ready to tell my story #goldenretriver #trend #dogsoftiktokviral🐶🦮 #fyp#netflix

Nine weeks old and taken without consent. Elvis is currently preparing his close-up.

He's a golden retriever with a fluffy coat, soulful eyes, and the energy of someone who's been waiting his entire life to speak to a camera. He's been ready for this moment. The receipts are organized. The kibble is about to be spilled.

The receipts go like this:

"At first it was all cuddles and treats... then she made me sit for the goodies!"

The bait and switch. This pattern of behavior was established early on. 

"She breaks the treats in half and says it's one."

The most specific injustice in this entire comment section. Filed. Documented. It’s absolutely unacceptable!

"Sometimes I wonder about the dog I could have been"

The existential toll of the kidnapping has been noted.

"Only love can hurt like this"

He didn't elaborate any further. He didn't need to.

Related: Bernese Mountain Dog and Golden Retriever Are Giving Thelma and Louise—But Make It Fluffy

"Best DOGumentary ever!"

The genre's been established.

"Waiting for this to air. When's the release date? #JusticeForElvis"

A movement has formed. The release date is pending, and justice is being pursued. Whatever it takes.

"Do I bark at that camera?" — the subject preparing for his close-up.

"We are here for you. Tell your truth 🥰" — the emotional support team has arrived.

"Ready to spill all the kibble on this one" — production is underway.

"Same, and then I dyed my hair to match his so he'd never know"

The most chaotic solidarity comment in this entire session. Someone went to extreme personal lengths to avoid detection by their own dog. The dedication is staggering.

Here's the thing about a golden retriever who thinks he was kidnapped by someone who thinks she birthed him: they're both kind of right about how intense that bond actually is. And science just weighed in on why.

Turns out the woman in her 30s isn't completely wrong.

According to research covered by Vice, scientists at the University of Cambridge looked at DNA from around 1,300 golden retrievers and compared it to large human genetic datasets. What they found was very surprising: humans and golden retrievers share 12 genes that shape both the golden retriever personality and human emotional traits. It’s the same wiring. Even though we’re two completely different species, we share a connection.

Eleanor Raffan, the study lead,  called the results "really striking." The genes they found continue to show up in emotional states and behavior in both species. One gene tied to how trainable a dog is matches human traits around problem-solving and emotional sensitivity. Another link to fear in goldens shows up in humans who are anxious and moody.

Vice describes golden retrievers as sitting at the center of something new in science: natural stand-ins for studying human mental health and emotional sensitivity. These dogs respond to the world in ways that look a lot like humans. They're clingy, and they're emotionally tuned in. They pick up on stress like it's their second language.

Which explains everything, including mom’s birthing claim.

She didn't just bring home a pet. She found a creature that shares her emotional wiring, looks into her eyes, and triggers the same bonding feelings that connect parents to their children. Of course, she thinks she birthed him. Science is practically making the case for her.

The receipts are still real, though. #JusticeForElvis stands.

Release date pending.

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Some puppies are extra quiet when you first bring them home, but don't let them fool you — they're just getting warmed up. Once they find their voice, they will definitely use it, and it will be the cutest thing ever... even if the dog in the video below went straight to intimidation mode.

This Bloodhound puppy is as sweet as can be, according to her humans, but that scary bark says otherwise.

She is the sweetest bloodhound puppy but she’s learning her voice and she actually does loves kisses🤣❤️#funnypuppy #puppy #funny #funnydog #bloodhound

All they wanted to do was give this sweet baby some kisses, but instead, the "spicy" puppy let out some truly angry barks for such a small dog!

Don't worry — she wasn't actually that angry. In the caption, her humans wrote, "She is the sweetest Bloodhound puppy but she’s learning her voice and she actually does loves kisses."

According to their previous videos, this puppy is part of a litter that the family welcomed pretty recently, so it does seem like she's just now getting a grip on that bark of hers (and looking adorable doing it, not gonna lie).

Bloodhounds are very vocal dogs, so they better strap in. If she's this noisy as a puppy, she's only going to have even more to bark about as she continues getting bigger and stronger!

Related: Adorable Bloodhound Puppy Greets Officers With So Much Joy, It’s Impossible Not To Smile

At first, puppies usually have very tiny barks — they are new to this whole dog thing, after all. But if you notice sometimes your puppy is suddenly sounding a lot scarier and louder than they used to (and possibly even barking more frequently), congratulations: Your dog is learning how to use their voice.

As Purina points out, puppies will begin barking around the time they are eight weeks old, and soon enough, you'll notice them barking at you, which means they're figuring out how to communicate.

You will come to know them best, which means that you're really who knows best when it comes to the reason your puppy is barking, whether it means they're hungry, having separation anxiety, warning you of danger, or they just want attention.

And if you have a very vocal puppy, take heart in the fact that as they get older, they'll likely calm down a lot — and of course, there are ways to train dogs to bark less (or at least more quietly).

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Pet siblings are too funny, and when there is an interspecies dynamic at play, there's often even more comedy gold to be found.

TikTok user @featherbutt frequently takes to social media to share the antics of their Cockatoo, named Boujee. Surprising no one, Boujee is filled with personality and mischief. Recently, they shared a video on social media of Boujee messing with her kitty sibling in the most hilarious way. The video quickly went viral, generating 1.5 million views, over 105k likes, and over 1,900 comments.

Watching the video, it's easy to see why!

Boujee doin her thang 🤪 #cockatoo #parrot #parrotsoftiktok #maincooncat #viral

Commenters on TikTok got a huge kick out of Boujee and her shenanigans, and sounded off on the video:

• "If rage bait were a bird"
• "Her intrusive thoughts are so damn loud I can hear them😅😅"
• "The satisfaction is all over her face 😂😂😂🥰🥰"

In observing Boujee, even if only on social media, it's obvious that cockatoos are highly intelligent, silly, and playful. Cockatoos are so smart that their intelligence is equivalent to that of a human toddler. It makes them unique and very interesting pets.

Cockatoos are excellent problem solvers and love a challenge. This can backfire, as many cockatoos are known to unlock their cages or get into places where they don't belong.

Along that same line, because of their smarts, Cockatoos can get bored easily, which makes them prone to mischief and troublemaking. While this is oftentimes totally innocent and playful, it is important to make sure they aren't able to break things or get into things that could be harmful to them.

On top of all of this, Cockatoos have a huge capacity for emotional intelligence and loving their family. They're incredibly loyal and get very attached to their people. They're also very sensitive and require a good amount of mental stimulation to be happy and healthy birds.

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Related: African Grey Parrot Politely Asking Cockatoo for Head Scratches Is Such a Little Gentleman

An employee at a marina on Seattle’s Orcas Island heard a sound he couldn't quite place. He looked outside and saw a bald eagle and a great blue heron engaged in combat right there on the dock.

It happened at Deer Harbor Marina while the employee was inside his houseboat making dinner. FOX 13 Seattle tracked him down after the marina posted the footage, and the marina's own caption had a pretty good line: "Ironically, while the U.S. was taking on Belgium Monday night, another all-American showdown was happening right here at Deer Harbor Marina. Even the local birds are competing for the best waterfront views."

The video shows a great blue heron squared off against a bald eagle, wings out and beak snapping, while the eagle stands there looking confused. A few ducks nearby seem to be trying to stay out of it completely. FOX 13 called it a duel between a wading bird underdog and an all-American raptor, and that framing fits almost perfectly.

An employee at a marina on Orcas Island heard a disturbing sound coming from the docks, only to find himself with a front-row seat to a battle between a great blue heron and a bald eagle. "Ironically, while the U.S. was taking on Belgium Monday night, another all-American showdown was happening right here at Deer Harbor Marina," Deer Harbor Marina wrote in the caption on their initial Facebook post. "Even the local birds are competing for the best waterfront views in Deer Harbor!" FOX 13 Seattle tracked down the employee behind the camera to get his take on the rare duel between a wading bird underdog and an all-American raptor. He said the fight happened in the evening while he was making dinner inside the employee's houseboat at the marina. Video Courtesy: Deer Harbor Marina

The comments had a lot of opinions:

"Real life Pokémon battle"

The line that says it all.

"Ducks in the background de-escalating…"

The best supporting detail in the whole clip.

Related: Newborn Polydactyl Maine Coon Kitten Sucks Her Extra Toe Bean Just Like a Thumb

"I'm with the heron"

"Herons are baddies"

The heron had a fan base by the end of this.

One commenter pointed out that it's illegal to harass bald eagles, which is absolutely true under federal law. But this wasn't a person harassing an eagle. It was just two wild birds doing what wild birds do. They're squaring up.

So what actually causes two birds like this to confront one another in the first place?

According to Hakai Magazine, a lot of it comes down to space and survival, not just an obsession with territory and some random bad mood.

But bald eagles are territorial by nature. They'll even chase off other eagles that get too close to their turf, and that same instinct extends to how they treat other birds nearby, including blue herons. Eagles are also known to raid heron nesting colonies directly, cracking open eggs or flying off with chicks while the adult herons scream and scatter, trying to defend the nest. When food or territory is on the line, eagles turn back.

Herons aren't pushovers. Researchers on the coast of British Columbia found that herons will actually build their nests right next to eagle pairs on purpose, using the eagle's territorial instinct as a kind of shield against other predators. It's a very risky trade-off, but it means herons spend a lot of their lives living in close range of a bird that could turn on them at any moment. Researchers have started calling it the "mafia protection racket."

That kind of proximity means tension is high from the start. A heron squaring up against an eagle on a dock isn't as random as it looks. Herons are used to living close to danger, and they know how to hold their ground when they need to, sharp beak and all.

As for who won this particular dockside standoff, the footage doesn't say. But judging by the comments, the internet's already picked its favorite. Team Heron apparently has the numbers. The bald eagle flew away. The blue heron held its ground.

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Bernedoodles have become a popular pick of pet parents over the years, thanks to the winning combination of the beloved Poodle and Bernese Mountain Dog breeds. Boasting a kaleidoscope of coat colors like honey gold, chocolate, snowy white and midnight black, these pooches look like walking multi-colored clouds. Add the swirling merle pattern to that fur, and heads will surely turn.

Truffle is an ultra merle Mini Bernedoodle puppy that's so floofy and adorable, people aren't sure if he's real.

Big yawns & cuddles after a holiday weekend . . . #puppy #toebeans #puppytok #vacation #cuddle

In the TikTok from @trufflecosta, the precious puppy was enjoying some cuddles from his mom. Truffle wriggled around, yawned, and rubbed his eyes, almost like he had just woken from a nap.

The canine cutie's coat could make anyone do a double-take. A marbled mosaic of cinnamon, gray, and white fluffy fur, Truffle's coat was like a poofy work of art. His floppy ears flying and tilting in all directions, along with his playful personality, exuded cartoon character or puppet vibes. Truffle looked like he was created in a studio or toy factory.

Followers fell in love with the floofy fur baby and compared him to everything from a plushie to a Jim Henson character:

• "Where did you get that living teddy bear?" one asked.
• "Has to be one of the best looking dogs ever... he looks like something off Fraggle Rock," another pointed out.
• "I thought it was a plushie — my heart!" a follower gushed.
• "It's like a stuffed animal came to life," someone noted.
• "Jim Henson would be jealous of your little Muppet," a fan remarked.

A Bernedoodle's coat is very lush and voluminous, giving them that cloud-like appearance. Thanks to their Poodle heritage, however, these hybrids aren't big shedders, so pet parents can enjoy that fluffy fur without the scattered dog hair.

Related: Tiny Chihuahua Puppy Uses Sock for a Sleeping Bag and It's Too Cute

Bernedoodles range in size, depending on which parent they take after. They can weigh anywhere from 10 to 90 pounds, with smaller dogs being referred to as Mini Bernedoodles. This crossbreed makes a wonderful family dog due to their loving and loyal personality.

And, like Truffle, Bernedoodles are over-the-top adorable.

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I've seen plenty of wobbly kittens trying to walk, but I've never met one quite like Lieutenant Dan. The tiny orange fluffball has the biggest, most expressive eyes and the sweetest little personality, and while he's still figuring out how to get around, he's already won over thousands of people online.

His back end has viewers joking that he's driving around with a flat tire, but judging by all the love pouring into the comments, Lieutenant Dan has an entire fan club cheering him on.

Say hi to Dan😊 he ain’t got no legs

The adorable video was shared by @germanyflowers.

The caption reads:

"Say hi to Dan 😊 he ain't got no legs."

Fortunately, Lieutenant Dan does have legs. He's just not using them the way most kittens do yet.

The video begins with his cat mom gently supporting him in a tiny homemade harness before setting him down. Instead of taking off on four paws, Dan promptly tips over and that somehow makes him even more endearing.

Related: Paralyzed Dachshund Yelps With Joy the Moment He Realizes He Can Run and Play Again

Between his oversized eyes and his determined little spirit, it's impossible not to fall in love with him.

• "Dan is orange so this could go either way."
• "I literally love him to death, but his eyes do look a little more bulgy than the average kitten. It could be a neuro thing. But he's perfect either way."
• "Dan finds no reason to walk away. Dan is happy with you. Dan is a green flag."
• "The back tire is a little flat."
• "I say this with love... Dan is going to be an ✨expensive kitty✨."
• "My kitten was slow to walk. I was worried, but eventually she got bored of laying around and started wobbling, and eventually walked. She's a healthy girl."

"The back tire is a little flat" made me laugh much harder than it probably should have.

More than anything, though, I hope Lieutenant Dan keeps proving everyone wrong one tiny wobble at a time.

Young kittens can be clumsy as they learn to stand, balance, and walk, but if your kitten seems unable to bear weight, repeatedly falls over, drags their legs or isn't making expected progress, it's a good idea to schedule a veterinary exam.

Some kittens simply develop a little more slowly than others while others may have orthopedic, neurologic, or congenital conditions that benefit from early diagnosis and treatment.

Your veterinarian can perform a physical exam and recommend any testing, physical therapy, or supportive care that might help.

The most important thing is not to assume your kitten will "grow out of it" without first getting professional advice.

Whatever Lieutenant Dan's journey looks like, one thing is already obvious.

He may have a wobbly start, but he has no shortage of people rooting for every tiny step he tries to take.

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Every morning is the same. Someone really needs to chill. But that someone is not going to chill. Someone else is rolling her eyes in exasperation about the entire situation.

The TikTok from @kylieapitts sets the whole thing up perfectly. Text overlay: "POV: What every morning is like with the Weiner dog I told my husband we could not have." Caption: "Even Bailey is sick of his 💩☠️ Everyone said if you have a Boykin Spaniel, then having a Dachshund will be a breeze… LOLLLLLL☠️🤣😭"

She told her husband they couldn't have this dog. They have this dog.

His name is Winston, and he's a dapple Dachshund with tiny legs and enormous confidence, marching across the couch like he's about to deliver some very important neighborhood gossip.

The transcript is the morning negotiation nobody asked for:

Even Bailey is sick of his 💩☠️. Everyone said “oh if you have a Boykin spaniel then having a dachshund will be a breeze…. LOLLLLLL☠️🤣😭 #minidachshund #weeniedog #dogmom #funnydogs

"If you're gonna lay down with me, you have to actually lay down."

"Okay, you can sit up here, but you actually have to chill."

"No, uh-uh. I told you you had to chill."

"I'm not gonna lie, you are kind of crazy."

"I never know what's gonna be next."

Then he winks. Next, he jumps.

Bailey the Boykin Spaniel has been watching all of this from the couch. She's melting into the cushions like life has been particularly hard despite having absolutely zero responsibilities. She's got documented opinions about Winston, and she'd like them on the record.

"Bay said she didn't sign up for this mess."

"I loved being an only dog child, ya know!” 

"Even Bailey is rolling her eyes at him 😂"

Bailey's feelings are 100% valid. Bailey's feelings are shared by many.

The comments arrived in full solidarity:

"I've had mine for 13 years and every day I question my decision 😂"

Thirteen years. Still questioning that decision. But, still there.

Related: Mom Buys Her Corgi a Cheap $3 Wig—and the Transformation Is Hilarious

Validates the headline directly.

"Ours just turned two. Ain't ever had a chill day in his life!"

"The chill is still loading"

Non-negotiable and absolutely correct.

"You can't look them in the eyes; it activates them somehow 😂"

The most specific dachshund survival tip in this entire comment section.

"When that saxophone gets louder and louder, you know it's about to hit the fan"

Every dachshund parent just nodded. If you know, you know.

Everyone said it would be a breeze, and everyone was wrong. Here's the thing about dachshunds: chaos isn't a flaw. It's a feature.

Winston didn't just wake up and choose chaos. He was built for it.

According to Dogster, dachshunds are genuinely some of the most stubborn dogs around, and the reason goes all the way back to what they were originally bred to do. Dachshunds were hunting dogs bred to track down and chase badgers and other animals into their underground burrows. That job meant working completely on their own, making split-second decisions, and never stopping just because someone told them to.

That history is Winston, every single morning.

When something catches a dachshund's attention, Dogster explains, they lock in completely and everything else disappears. Winston isn't ignoring the request to chill. He just found something way more interesting than chilling.

Fearlessness is built in, too. Dachshunds were bred to go nose to nose with badgers and porcupines without blinking an eye. That same fearlessness means that consequences don't really register with him. They want to do things their way, and there's genuinely not a lot anyone can do about it at that moment.

The good news is that stubborn doesn't mean it is completely impossible. Dogster says consistent positive reinforcement, keeping training fun, and keeping things fresh go a long way. Treats help a lot too. Patience helps the most. It's a slow process, but it gets there.

And here's the thing: most of the people in that comment section have a dachshund. None of them gave theirs back.

The chill is still loading. Bailey's still definitely rolling her eyes. Winston's already on to the next thing.

It's only Tuesday.

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It's easy to see why Doodle mixes are so popular — they're so adorable, they're almost unreal. While Goldendoodles might be the first breed that comes to mind for many people, you do not want to sleep on Bernedoodles, which are a mix between a Bernese Mountain Dog and a Poodle.

And after you meet Truffle, you might be trying to figure out how to add one of these puppies to your family the way I'm about to...

Big yawns & cuddles after a holiday weekend . . . #puppy #toebeans #puppytok #vacation #cuddle

Truffle's humans caught him in an extra cuddly moment in this video, and OMG — this is the kind of content we really need to see on the internet.

From the way those ears wiggle to how he covers his eyes with his paws, it's like this dog knows exactly how cute he is and he's willing to take advantage of it. How does Truffle not get everything he wants with moves like these?

And just when you think he couldn't possibly get any cuter, Truffle lets out that little sneeze. So cute!

I really don't see how his parents are able to get anything done when they live with a dog who happens to be this cute. Obviously, their only job should be snuggling him all day.

Related: Multicolored 'Squishmallow' Bernedoodle Puppy 'Dances' With a Blueberry, and It's Hilarious

With over 1,500 comments, it's safe to say that everyone is falling in love with Truffle:

• "A calico fluff. This baby is the cutest pup I've ever seen. Congrats on hitting the puppy lottery, he's perfect."
• "How are you supposed to go on with your day when you have that at home?"
• "Omg that is the cutest fur baby I have ever seen."
• "Cuteness overload! I wanna hold him."

Not only are people comparing Truffle to a plushie, but they also think he looks like everything from a character from the classic show Fraggle Rock to a living teddy bear. He even received an AI accusation or two, but nope — Truffle is the real deal.

So, um, anyone know where I can adopt one of these Bernedoodle puppies? I suddenly feel like the most important thing in my life is becoming a mom to a real life plushie.

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Momma cats spend a lot of time cleaning their kittens. For the babies, it's warmth, care, and probably the closest thing they'll get to a full-service spa.

For Luna, the Maine Coon, however, one difficult client sends the appointment off the rails.

Luna really doesn’t like when her kittens fight back during bath time 😂 #mainecoon #kitten #mainecoonkitten #cutekitten #catsoftiktok

In the video, Luna has one tiny kitten for bath time. She is licking, fussing, and making sure every piece of fluff is properly cleaned.

Then the kitten fights back.

Not enough to start a real rebellion. Just enough to interrupt Mom's plan.

Luna freezes, throws her head back, and throws her head up toward the ceiling like an exhausted soap opera star asking the universe why motherhood has become so difficult.

The difference is crazy #mainecoon #kittens #mainecoonkittens #cutekitten #catsoftiktok

The post explains that Luna doesn't appreciate it when her kittens resist during bath time, and her expression makes that clear. She doesn't look angry so much as personally betrayed.

"I gave you life, and this is how you respond to grooming?"

One viewer immediately declared that Luna is the drama. Another admitted to replaying the clip 20 times, which makes sense because the head toss gets funnier with every watch.

Maine Coon kittens already look like tiny clouds with paws, but this baby came with opinions. The kitten is small enough to fit under Mom's chin and still confident enough to challenge the bath schedule.

Luna has the energy of a parent who has answered the same question all day and just heard it one more time.

The whole exchange lasts seconds, but it tells a complete story: Mom has a job, the baby objects, and Mom briefly leaves the conversation emotionally.

Anyone who has cared for babies of any species will recognize the feeling.

Of course, Luna goes right back to being their mom. The dramatic pause isn't a resignation letter. It's simply a moment. And every overworked mother deserves one.

What do you think Luna was saying with that head toss?

A mother cat spends much of her day nursing, grooming, protecting, and teaching her kittens. As the babies become more active, she may choose more time away. Giving Mom a calm place to rest can help without separating the family too soon.

VCA Animal Hospitals notes that nursing cats can become anxious when their nesting area feels too noisy, bright, or busy.

Watch for these signs that Mom may need more support:

• She keeps trying to get away. Give her a safe space she can enter and leave on her own.
• She seems tense or overwhelmed. Let her choose when she wants attention.
• She stops eating, avoids the kittens completely, or seems unwell. Call your vet immediately.

Luna's head toss may be comedy gold, but even the most devoted cat mom deserves a quiet minute before the next bath begins.

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Related: Stunning Rare Ragdoll-Maine Coon Mix Is a Big Ball of Fluffy Sunshine

Sweet Pea, the Cockatoo, has been obsessed with her dog brother, Copper, from the moment she joined the family. As the sweet bird's first and best friend, the Black Lab has a high bar to live up to if the bird's to be her usual happy self. Recently, Sweet Pea gifted the pup with Mom's slipper, and his reaction is kind of heartbreaking.

Caught Sweet Pea stealing my slipper to show the dog, but he wasn’t interested 😢🦜

Rescue Cockatoo, Sweet Pea, is a one-of-a-kind gal with a huge heart. She loves offering Copper household items in exchange for his forever friendship (whether he asked for it or not). The video shows Sweet Pea showing Mom's slipper to an unenthused Copper, and the rejection is palpable!

Copper is used to Sweet Pea's shenanigans by now, but she's a sensitive gal. The walk back to Mom to express her disappointment shows how deeply the precious bird feels about her dog brother, and why his not caring about the slipper hurts.

Luckily, Mom swooped in to the rescue to convince Copper to give the slipper another look (though, Sweet Pea still needs a minute to process the pain).

Related: Dramatic Cockatoo Demands Dad's Attention in the Funniest Way

As painful as that was for Sweet Pea, she has other house buds she can turn to, like an African Grey Parrot named Brody. Most days, Sweet Pea spends her time annoying or taunting him, but sometimes, the two share a heartwarming moment that Mom catches.

In this one, the doting Cockatoo gently pets Brody's head with her little claw, and he's more than happy about it:

Watch my parrot ask his parrot friend for head scratches 😳 Do I need to worry he might start to consider world domination?! Let me know your thoughts #parrot #africangrey #smart #genius

There's no doubt that Cockatoos are one of the smartest birds on Earth, but the reason Sweet Pea's slipper offering is so adorable is because of the meaning behind it. These intelligent, social, and affectionate Parrots like bringing items to their favorite people and pets as a way of building a bond, showing their love, and sometimes asking for attention.

In the wild, these birds do the same by sharing food or nesting materials as a way of getting the attention of a potential mate or to show they care about their flock. Humans and household companions become their flock, and gift giving is their way of saying "I love you."

Sweet Pea may have gotten her feelings hurt this time around, but knowing her, she'll try again and again because she really is that sweet (hence the name)!

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Being a brand new kitten is probably a little scary, but mostly a lot of fun. There's so much to explore, there are people who can't wait to meet (and pet) you and tell you how cute you are — honestly, what's not to love?

I can tell you with complete confidence that it is going to be hard to avoid wanting a kitten after watching this video, so strap in and good luck. She is the most adorable!

cat cattok pet adorable pettok

This video from @lilo_the_kittyy on TikTok shows Lilo doing that thing that all kittens do every time they're presnted with something they've never seem before, like staring down the barrel of the camera while batting at it.

Commenters all seem to agree that this is more of a Littlest Pet Shop toy come alive situation. All of those tiny features, combined with her huge eyes? She's definitely too cute to be real. Her new humans are so lucky they get to snuggle her every day!

{And for the record, the '90s kid in me really wants to make sure you know that the Littlest Pet Shop animals that comments are referring to are the newer ones, not the ones from when we were kids and they were a bit more realistic.)

Lilo definitely seems to have found the right home for her... and now we get to see her grow up via the magic of social media, so that's pretty cool, too.

Related: Oriental Shorthair Kitten Legit Looks Exactly Like Dobby From 'Harry Potter'

Lilo's account made its TikTok debut on July 1, but in that short time, she's already made so many friends from all over the world. She almost has 1,000 followers — not too shabby in less than two weeks!

Catching people's attention with those huge eyes probably helps quite a bit, though. And boy, does she love to show them off.

Just look at what a gorgeous kitty she is here:

cat cattok fyp kitty pet

She's full of so much energy that she always has to be on the go, but it doesn't seem to bother her one bit. She's got places to do and people to see... and maybe, she just needs a free evening to watch her favorite shows on TV now that she has discovered cartoons!

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I've fostered dogs in the past and can honestly say, I'm a total foster failure. Both dogs I fostered became permanent family members and I have zero regrets, though I realize how important fostering is for shelter dogs. Many animal lovers foster numerous canines with the knowledge that these fur babies will move on to their forever families. Giving them a loving home environment so they don't have to sit in a shelter while they wait is a wonderful and selfless act.

This adorable black and white puppy is enjoying life in her foster home and clearly getting lots of affection.

the cutest air swim ever!!! please share and follow to help the puppies #puppy #adoptdontshop #foster @Junebug Foundation

In the TikTok from @foster4theheart, the canine cutie was being held by her foster mom and getting tons of kisses.

"Are you powered by smoochies?" her mom asked, giggling as the pretty pup kicked her legs back and forth in a sort of 'air swim'.

"This little foster pup has to be the cutest thing ever!" the onscreen text read, stating the obvious.

The adorable fur baby literally smiled as her foster mom covered her with kisses, and even leaned her head in whenever her mom stopped as if to say, "Keep going!" The puppy's tail never stopped wagging.

Followers fell in love with the charming pup and noted they would have a hard time letting her go.

"Thank you for the PSA and reminding me I am not strong enough to foster lol," one pointed out.

"I fostered ONCE 6 years ago... anyway Phoebe loves living her best life with us," another shared.

"Yea, at that point she would no longer be a foster. That would be my new child," a follower posted.

"This would be a foster fail for me," someone admitted.

"That's one of the cutest things I've ever seen!" a fan raved.

There are some factors to consider before applying to become a foster parent for canines. Ask yourself some defining questions, such as:

• Do you have experience with dogs?
• Are you able to walk, feed, and interact with a foster dog on a consistent schedule?
• Do you have the time and energy to give a foster dog the love and attention it needs?
• Do you have other pets, and how do they get along with other dogs?

Related: Multicolored 'Squishmallow' Bernedoodle Puppy 'Dances' With a Blueberry, and It's Hilarious

These are just a few things to ponder before making a commitment. A foster dog may need to stay with you from weeks to months, depending on the situation. Many shelters provide food and supplies to foster parents, and veterinary expenses are usually reimbursed. Check with the shelter or rescue that you are considering applying to as a foster.

Like this irresistible puppy, many pooches immediately steal your heart. Whether a foster dog ends up with another family or with you, it's never a fail when they get a forever home.

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Pets bring so much joy to our lives, and it's such a special journey to see how our bonds change throughout the years. Getting to spend special days with our pets and form memories is truly the whole point of this life journey we go on with them.

Paige Ry, or @paigery12 on TikTok, shared a video of her day on the water with her beautiful Golden Retriever. While lounging in the water, Paige's Golden uses her legs and feet like a makeshift pool noodle, and the results are dreamy and so relaxing.

The video went massively viral on TikTok, generating over 27 million views, 6.8 million likes, and over 5400 comments. The video has immaculate vibes and may inspire feelings of FOMO.

My life is golden

Paige captioned her video "my life is golden," and the thousands of commenters on social media fully agreed with her sentiment.

"This right here tells me everything I need to know about you as a person🥹❤️"

"We all know the best leg workout is holding up a golden retriever lol so cute"

"a pup who is going to be okay ✨"

Keeping your dog safe around the water is of the utmost importance. This comes from making sure your dog is comfortable in and around bodies of water and always making sure you prioritize supervising them.

Some Tips For Water Safety for Your Dog:

• Always make sure there's plenty of fresh water around when your dog is swimming so they aren't drinking their swimming water
• Watch for hazardous materials or algae that can be harmful to your dog
• Keep out of strong currents and tides
• Equip your dog with a well-fitting lifejacket for additional safety
• Always make sure your dog knows how to get out of the water, whether it's a pool or otherwise
• Watch for signs of exhaustion and dehydration, which can be very dangerous

With a little bit of time, training, and thought, you can make the dreamiest day at the water for your dog, too. And best part is you can be a pool noodle for them!

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Related: Black Lab Puppy Takes the Dreamiest Boat Nap — and We’re Extremely Jealous

It's scientifically proven that seeing cute animals releases dopamine and makes you happier. And when that cute animal is probably the fluffiest kitten you could imagine? Well the dopamine will be off the charts!

TikTok user @gnocchiandbear shares their two British Longhaired Persian cats on social media. Bear, the black one of the two cats, recently showed off for the camera, loafing and bounding along the bed. Bear is absolutely adorable and also undeniably looks like the bounciest ball of lint.

Warning: The following video of Bear may, in fact, induce immediate-onset kitten fever.

he looks like a ball of lint #kitten #fluffykitten #persiancat #britishshorthair #cuteanimals

The cuteness overload was real and viewers and commenters on social media could not get enough of Bear.

"Feisty ball of lint"

"I can’t believe it’s real 😭😭😭"

"My heart just fell on my stomach 💜😍💜🥰💜😍"

Suffice to say, Bear is precious and we're lucky he has graced our various screens with his adorable floof.

Image via Unsplash

Getting your new kitten used to being groomed is a great way to ensure they're properly socialized and used to being handled. It's great to start this around two to seven weeks of age, so that hopefully you'll have an adult cat who is fully comfortable being groomed if need be.

Some Tips For Acclimating Your Kitten To Grooming:

• Start when your kitten is already relaxed, not when they're amped up or playing
• Keep initial sessions on the shorter side, no more than 10 minutes
• Introduce tools like brushes and clippers slowly and with patience
• Give rewards and treats for positive behavior
• Always brush their hair in the direction of growth
• Use cat-safe wipes or warm washcloths around the ears and eyes

With plenty of patience and time, you and your kitten will have a great relationship to grooming. It's a great way to get closer and a sweet way to bond with your little furry friend.

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Related: Rare Brown Kitten With Serious Medical Issues Faced Long Odds—Then Everything Changed

Rescuing a dog comes with an endless list of things that make each day better than the one before. Topping that list is when they completely trust you enough to be their fun, silly, goofy selves. There's no better example than Molly, a rescue dog who quickly rose to viral fame for her special talent: dancing!

Vocal Molly 🤗🎤#fyp #molly #dogs #low @T-Pain

Thank goodness the internet exists so the world can be as blessed as dog dad @fraank_dsm with Molly's epic choreography! The hilarious clip shows the charismatic rescue pup doing her thing to T-Pain's "Low" like it's her audition for the next music video (please hire her, someone!).

"She especially likes ‘WITH THE FUR, WITH THE FUR’ the whole club was looking at her!" one fan wrote. Another pointed out her reaction, adding, "Her stopping to see if the whole club is looking at her," while another praised the good girl writing, "Molly shaking her moneymaker is the cutest thing… You go, girl."

Now that everyone's aware that this dancing rescue dog exists, may there be a million more videos of her shaking her groove thing, because it's pure sunshine in a bottle!

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

The sweet party pup is all over Dad's TikTok page as the most beautiful girl in the world (as seen in a series of photos here), but her mega-viral fame didn't come until April 2026. That's when Miss Molly gave her first big "pawformance," and fans fell madly in love!

Look at this excited pup go (and her outfit is A+):

@NINA SKY #fyp #music #dogs #molly #dogsdancing

There are a lot of cool pets online, but Molly's in a category of her own. In general, dogs can wiggle, jump, or seem as though they're dancing when excited, but Molly's cute moves may come from a series of things she's learned, mostly Dad's hype over her doing the routine.

While dogs don't know how to dance to a beat on their own accord—because they can't keep rhythm like humans—they can be trained through "Musical Freestyle" or "Dog Dancing." This teaches them to learn complex choreography with positive reinforcement and training called shaping, which pieces a bunch of single tricks together to look like a whole dance routine that appears as though they do have rhythm.

Experts say you can teach a dog to "dance" by luring them with a yummy treat and spinning them in a circle while adding a verbal cue like "dance." Once they do that, offer praise so they connect the reward with the movement. With time, you can loop this trick in with another, so the movements are fluid—just like a real dance.

It doesn't matter how Molly's dance came about. We demand more of Molly getting down with Dad in the car, forever (please and thank you)!

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