It’s impossible to know how a pet will react to new siblings coming into the family. Some cannot contain their excitement while others are filled with jealousy. However, one dog’s unusual, yet precious, reaction has delighted viewers on TikTok.
The TikTok video posted by Taylor Santosuosso (@taylor_santo) last month shows her older dog, Goose, in the yard, slowly approaching its new puppy sibling, Maverick. This golden retriever was tiptoeing his way over while the pup sat still.
Although you can’t see the puppy’s face, it is clear from the body language that he was thrilled to see Goose. And as for Maverick, the tail wagging meant he was excited.
The video’s caption reads: “Goose, meet Maverick.”
The entire time Goose was walking toward Maverick, he had a smile on his face. It was love at first sight and now, the two are best friends, Santosuosso told Newsweek via TikTok.
Owners need to be attentive to their dog’s body language as it could determine the meaning behind the stalk. Dogs who engage in stalking behavior towards another can simply be trying to initiate play, or it might be a classic predatory behavior.
It is not common for dogs to view other canines as prey, pet website Cuteness states. Wanting to be stealthy, signs of a predatory dog will include them moving around slowly and silently. If owners spot this behavior, then they should intervene and start proper training to keep the other dog safe.
Luckily, Goose’s stalking is all in good fun. Santosuosso said he still does it to this day even though Maverick is much bigger.
@taylor_santo/TikTok
TikTok Users React
As of Friday, the clip had over 2.1 million views, 153,300 likes, and 714 comments. TikTok users instantly fell in love with the two dogs.
“His huge smile, trying NOT to scare the baby. So precious,” wrote one user.
Another user pointed out: “Their tails were wagging at the same pace.”
“Awww he was trying to not frighten his new friend!” a third user commented.
Another wrote: “Couldn’t figure out if he was stalking him or trying not to scare him!!”
Santosuosso said that this “stalking” is Goose’s way of playing.
“Usually when he gets up close they’ll both stare for a few moments and then run away to play!” she said.
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.