A golden retriever leaning into the life of a passenger princess has left TikTok viewers in stitches after he barely attempts jumping into his owner’s car.
The owner painted a perfect picture of how this golden retriever was putting on an act while trying to get into their car. With his front paws up, it looked like the pup was ready to go, but instead, he looked around for help and never hopped in.
This had to frustrate the owner because, as seen in the second part of the January 5 TikTok video posted by @enzounleashed, this dog can clearly jump. He’s full speed ahead when the zoomies hit, hopping on top of the bed and couch with ease.
To be fair, pet parents give the whole world to their fur babies, so one cannot blame this dog for accepting the royal treatment when it comes to getting in the car. He is a “passenger princess” and if he wants to be lifted into the car, then that’s what’s going to happen.
@enzounleashed/TikTok
Clearly, this dog knows when to save his energy. He’ll keep the jumping to a minimum until he can release it all at once while running around the house.
And it seems like he isn’t the only dog that does it. TikTok viewers were cracking up in the comment section and shared their similar experiences.
“How do I send this to my dog? She can hop our chainlink fence but won’t jump in the pickup,” said one TikTok user.
Another person commented: “My English golden can’t get up on the bed, in the car, nothing. We think he just likes to be spoiled.”
Newsweek reached out to @enzounleashed via TikTok for comment.
Dogs Hesitant with Cars
Traveling by car can be extremely stressful for dogs, whether it’s because of their associations with driving to the vet or their uneasiness. But through proper safety precautions and positive reinforcement, dogs might be able to overcome their car fears.
Battersea Dogs and Cats Home, an animal rescue and rehabilitation center, recommends that owners create a warm, cozy environment with familiar items like a dog bed or blankets. This will make the car more attractive to their dogs as the familiarity will make them feel more secure. Plus, it might help stabilize them in the moving car.
Owners should also give their dogs time to get used to the car even before turning on the engine. Walk your dog around outside the car and let them explore it on their own. You’ll want to reward them if they move closer to the car on their own. Once your dog gets comfortable walking around the car for a few laps, you can then introduce them to the inside.
Again, you’ll want your dog to lead. If they are not ready to hop into the car, do not force it. You can build up their confidence by rewarding them with treats placed inside the car. Keep moving it back until they hop up on their own. Gradually increase their time inside and eventually reward them with a long-lasting treat like a kong.
Once your dog feels comfortable, you can try closing the car door and then eventually driving. The positive associations leading up to the test drive should make them feel comfortable enough in the car. Always remember to be patient.
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.