Dogs thrive on consistent schedules. If anything is slightly different from their normal routine, they can get a little out of whack.
Luckily, they don’t make a big fuss over their owner’s schedule mess-up. They will just judge them and give them the cold shoulder—at least that’s what happened with this springer spaniel owner.
The owner overslept after not feeling well. Turns out she woke up with COVID. When she looked at the clock, it was already 11:11 a.m., way later than what she and her dog were used to.
But instead of her dog Mia begging to be fed or taken outside, she sat there quietly. Mia finally locked eyes with her owner, staring her down with the biggest look of disapproval.
@mia_thespringerspaniel/TikTok
Mia was perplexed her owner dared to sleep in. It doesn’t matter that she wasn’t feeling well. A routine is a routine and needs to be kept. Whoever said dogs don’t judge clearly has never met Mia.
Plenty of viewers of Wednesday’s TikTok video know exactly what it feels like to get judged by a dog.
“Slept in until 1 p.m. once, woke up from the dramatic sighs that he was doing next to my ear,” commented one viewer.
Another added: “Their judgmental stare is horrible, isn’t it? I have two that give me the look if I have a lay in on the weekend.”
Dogs might judge their owners, but thankfully, they’re quick to forgive.
Mia’s owner told Newsweek that she wasn’t in the doghouse for too long. Mia quickly forgave her for the late start to the day.
Why Do Dogs Like Routines?
Having a consistent routine with a dog can truly support every aspect of an owner’s relationship with their fur baby. It doesn’t matter if they’re puppies or senior dogs, there is a benefit to routines for them all.
A puppy’s routine of sleeping, eating, and potty training will help them adjust to their new homes and families. Adult dog routines should include exercise, enrichment, and training, the American Kennel Club (AKC) said. This will allow dogs to be more comfortable and confident. As for senior dogs, they will thrive off a routine to help reduce anxiety.
The AKC goes on to list boundaries along with schedules. Too rigid a routine will be counterproductive, leading to an anxious dog. Set clear expectations. If you make one rule, such as not sitting on the couch, keep it the same. Otherwise, your dog might get confused.
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.