The birth of a new baby is an exciting time for everyone, right? Well, tell that to this golden retriever, who didn’t look too impressed about the bundle of joy his owners brought back from the hospital.
Machayla Culver, 27, welcomed her daughter Kaila on April 13, 2024, and while the new parents were ecstatic, their dog child, Maverick, didn’t seem too pleased about becoming a big brother. In a hilarious clip posted on TikTok (@machaylaculver), the pup could be seen staring at the crib, looking very unsure about the baby inside.
After being the baby of the family for so long, Culver, from Maui, Hawaii, didn’t know how Maverick would react to the new addition, telling Newsweek that he seemed “very confused, but intrigued.”
Thankfully, Maverick is getting used to Kaila with each passing day, and he’s even grown quite protective of her now too.
@machaylaculver / TikTok
“Our seven-year-old golden retriever, Maverick, was surprised and confused to say the least when we brought baby girl home. To us, his expression seemed more curious and concerned. He’s a loving dog and we knew he would quickly adjust to not being an only child anymore,” Culver said.
“But he has quickly become her number one fan and her security guard. It’s the sweetest thing to witness, and he doesn’t leave her side.”
At the time of the video, Maverick continued to watch over his new sister for several minutes until he was satisfied that she was OK. And he hasn’t stopped that habit either, as he continues to check on her regularly every day.
Despite Maverick’s initial shock, Culver has no fears about him becoming the best furry friend that Kaila could wish for. Golden retrievers are notoriously good with children, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) highlights how affectionate and playful they are with other dogs, and people of all ages.
Though energetic, they are incredibly trustworthy and love nothing more than making their owners happy, so it’s no surprise they’re one of America’s favorite dog breeds.
Since the video was posted on TikTok, Maverick’s unimpressed expression has amused many, and it’s already been viewed more than 5.4 million times and gained over 389,200 likes.
Alongside the hilarious clip, the caption jokes: “I wish I could read his mind.”
Culver never expected her seven-year-old golden retriever to go viral, but it’s been “so fun to experience,” and she loves seeing Maverick gain so many new followers.
She told Newsweek: “The reaction on social media has been incredible. It’s been so entertaining to read through all the comments. I’m glad this precious home video has brought joy to so many people.”
With more than 2,000 comments on the viral video, many TikTok users have lauded Maverick’s sassy attitude towards his baby sister. One comment reads: “Who ordered THIS? Not me.”
Another person responded: “The looks of betrayal lol.”
One TikTok user joked: “I think he’s owed an explanation.”
While another person added: “He’s taking guard dog duty very serious!”
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to [email protected] with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
Uncommon Knowledge
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.