June 2024

Preparing themselves for their new sweet puppy to grow into a large Labrador, owners were stunned to find their full-grown dog did not become the breed’s typical size. Chocolate Labradors, when fully grown, usually stand from 21 to 24 inches high and weigh from 55 to 80 pounds, with males typically larger than females. The size also depends on the type of chocolate Labrador: American or English. When TikTok user @kalefraze and her husband first brought home their puppy, they would get comments from people saying the dog would grow up to be huge. But she didn’t look much bigger from when they got her when the pup’s 5-month mark arrived. Granted, Labradors don’t reach their adult height until they are about six to 12 months old, so the couple patiently waited to see if their dog grew more. The June 9 TikTok video shows the dog’s progression from a tiny puppy to her full-grown size, and now that the waiting game is over, the owners still have one tiny Labrador. People will tell the couple that their dog is the smallest Labrador that they have ever seen. The caption reads: “They tricked us,” but the size does not matter. She’s still their baby. The video includes photos of their full-grown dog to give people a sense of how small she stands. She barely reaches her owner’s knees when standing on all fours. On the plus side, she doesn’t take up too much room on the couch. These owners especially weren’t prepared for their pup’s size, or lack thereof, because her parents weren’t small. In the comment section, the owner mentioned the dog’s parents were “kinda big and chunky.” She also added that her short stature is not due to a lack of eating. The comment reads: “She EATS. She would eat the whole bag if I let her. Obviously, we fed her appropriately but she’s the most food-driven dog I’ve met.” Newsweek reached out to @kalefraze via TikTok for additional information. ‘Little Lady’ In less than a week, the TikTok video racked up 1.4 million views, 169,700 likes and 989 comments. “She’s just a little lady,” commented a viewer, while a second person wrote: “It’s like someone took a shrink ray to her, she’s adorable!!” Others shared similar experiences: “We have a black lab that’s 46 lbs! We get the ‘petite lab’ comments too.” Another said: “I think mine got some of your dog’s size. He’s 140lbs & not even overweight …” Stock image of a small chocolate Labrador sitting on a dog bed. Owners were stunned by their chocolate Lab’s full size. Eco Enter/Getty Images Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com 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. Read More

A precious video between a patient at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital and the hospital’s working canine has quickly melted hearts on the internet, proving a dog’s presence can make anyone smile even during the hardest times. The children’s hospital welcomed two facility dogs to the team last year: Nacho and Corrin. The two work in a pediatric health care setting, providing patient care and promoting healing, which is highlighted in their Instagram account @uichildrens_facilitydogs. The dogs encourage recovery by walking with patients during physical therapy or after surgery, decreasing their fear or anxiety, providing distraction and coping skills, helping patients learn to take medicine, and offering emotional support. The dog handlers are also full-time child life specialists at the hospital. Every time they work with a patient, Nacho and Corrin join. A May 19 Instagram video especially touched people’s hearts as it gave them a glimpse into Nacho’s day hanging out with patients. This time he was with Mason, a 2-year-old cancer patient. Nacho and Mason are no strangers. They’ve been hanging out frequently since Nacho started. “They have a really good relationship and Mason is always really excited to see Nacho,” handler and child life specialist Emily Bradley told Newsweek. “I know that Nacho has become a part of his family’s life.” In their latest session, Nacho and Mason covered it all: treats, pets, stylish glasses, and cars. Mason had the biggest smile on his face the entire time as Nacho sat with him on the bed. And Nacho wasn’t upset about working since he got his fair share of goldfish treats. Nacho and Bradley have previously spent time with Mason during his appointments, helped teach him how to swallow pills, and offered coping support during fusion appointments. Mason’s family has shared with Bradley that their son is always asking to look at the new photos or videos on Nacho and Corrin’s Instagram page, which touches Bradley as it shows the impact the dogs have made on the kids not only while in the hospital, but all the time. A precious video between a patient at the University of Iowa Stead Family Children’s Hospital and the hospital’s working canine has quickly melted hearts on the internet, proving a dog’s presence can make anyone smile… @uichildrens_facilitydogs/Instagram Nacho and Corrin have become celebrities at the hospital, Bradley said. Everyone knows their names and the dogs can’t get enough of the attention they receive from patients and staff members. “He loves his job a lot,” Bradley said. “I think he would rather be at work than at home on his off days…He loves all the attention.” Bradley noted that Nacho and Corrin are fully supported by philanthropic and donor dollars. The money goes toward the dogs’ food, treats, vet bills, care, and grooming. The hope is to one day have enough funds to bring on a third facility dog that will allow the hospital to have a dog working daily. ‘Fur Covered Angels’ The Instagram video quickly touched people’s hearts, amassing over 6.6 million views and 409,417 likes so far. “This is so precious and healing!” one Instagram user wrote, while another commented: “I could watch this on repeat forever. Love these two sooo much!” Another user posted: “Goldens are fur covered angels.” Touched by the clip, one user wrote: “What comfort in a scary place I love the calm loving nature of this dog this little boy is getting all the love this dog has to offer love the big smile on little man’s face hope he gets better soon.” Mason’s mother commented on the video as well: “Mason loves his time with Nacho!!! We will cherish this forever.” Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com 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. Read More

A dog owner replaced a rug in the room and quickly found the new pattern had a specific spot that piqued the canine’s interest. The pattern has a distinct circle near the edge of the rug, outlined in black. The color stood out from the rest of the pattern. Reddit user pmcg115‘s dog knew exactly what the spot was intended for, although the result was not what the owner expected. The dog plopped down in the circle like it was a brand-new bed for her to take her naps. She perfectly fit inside the perimeter, with even room to spare. The caption reads: “Our dog has been lying in this circle on our new rug like it’s a bed.” A photo from a Reddit post about a dog sleeping in a specific spot on the owner’s new rug. The rug’s pattern includes a circle and the dog believes it’s her new bed. pmcg115/Reddit She rested her head on her paws, mimicking a dog sleeping position sometimes known as Sphinx. Newsweek previously reported that the Sphinx pose is when a dog sleeps in this downward position with its front legs stretched out. As they fall into a deeper slumber, their head will eventually drop into their paws. In this position, dogs rest but not necessarily in a deep sleep. Other common dog sleeping positions include being curled in a ball, sleeping on their sides, belly-up and Superman. Luckily, no matter the position this dog wants to rest, she has plenty of room to stay within the circle. Redditor Reactions The hilarious Reddit post reached over 63,000 likes and 624 comments. People love her sweet thoughts about the new circle, claiming it is her safe spot. “It’s obviously HER circle, it’s made for her to know where to chill so as not to dirty the rest of the rug. Good gurl,” commented a Redditor. Another said: “Doggie knows it protects against harmful spells and curses haha.” A third person came to the dog’s defense: “Maybe it is. Have you tried laying in it?” With comments showing people concerned about how comfortable the dog is sleeping, the owner assured Reddit users that this dog has no shortage of beds. The comment reads: “Oh don’t worry this silly weirdo has plenty of actual bed options but chooses this spot anyway.” And since she continues to sleep here, some people suggested moving a bed into the spot so she truly can lounge like the princess she is. Newsweek reached out to pmcg115 via Reddit for additional comment. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com 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. Read More

A video of a water-obsessed dog enjoying his very own pool has gone viral and left viewers in stitches. This German shepherd couldn’t believe that a pool was in his backyard. He kept circling the perimeter, barking at the water as he tried to find a way to get in. The owner had to show him where the steps were, but when the light bulb went off in his head, it was game on. Read more: Compare the Best Rewards Credit Cards for Pet Owners The April 18 TikTok video posted to the account @crystalreneealdri shows the moment the dog got the courage to leap off the step and into his new pool. He was a natural, swimming back and forth, avoiding the steps at all costs. As the text on the video said, he was “living his best life.” It was a splashing frenzy as he slammed his front paws into the pool. Not quite the normal doggy paddle, but hey, it worked and he clearly was having a blast. Continuing to circle the pool, he showed no signs of slowing down. In fact, he made a game for himself and tried to see how high he could splash the water and catch it. Newsweek reached out to @crystalreneealdri via TikTok for additional information. Viewer Reactions The precious TikTok clip amassed nearly 4 million views, over 521,400 likes, and 1,058 comments by Thursday. Viewers were laughing at his unusual swimming method. “He’s a very um…. graceful swimmer,” said a TikToker, while another added: “The chomps while he swims are elite.” Someone wrote what the dog was thinking: “He’s like, ‘Mom look at me. I’m swimming this is fun.’” One viewer pointed out: “That is going to be one tired doggy.” Pool Safety With Dogs Between the sunshine beating down on them and the energy they exert, swimming can take a lot of energy out of dogs, making it crucial for owners to supervise their fur babies playing in the water. PetMD highlighted a few hazards to watch for before, during, and after swimming to help keep your dog safe. Owners should watch out if their dog drinks pool water. Luckily, chlorine in pool water is diluted. However, if a dog drinks an excessive amount, it can be harmful as they might develop mild gastrointestinal issues. Be extra cautious around salt water as it has more serious consequences, especially if a dog is dehydrated. Always keep a fresh water bowl close by. Owners should also be aware when their dog gets too tired. Like kids, dogs enjoy being in the water and might not want to admit they’re exhausted. If you see the rear part of the body sinking, it is a likely sign they could use a break. If you do not use a life vest or flotation device, which is recommended, be sure they have a safe and easy way to exit the pool such as a ramp, steps, or ladders. Stock image of a German shepherd at the edge of a pool. A TikTok video went viral after a water-obsessed dog finally got his own backyard pool. danaibe12/Getty Images Do you havefunny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com 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. Read More

A dog, who had known nothing but cruelty’s life, changed when she was fostered, and now Peanut Butter the pit bull cross has found her forever home. Mady O’Reilly, a volunteer and foster carer with Metro East Humane Society in Edwardsville, Illinois, told Newsweek she took Peanut Butter into her home after she arrived into their care in May after surviving a horrific dog attack. The owner surrendered Peanut Butter after she was attacked as they didn’t want to deal with her injuries. “Peanut butter first arrived at Metro East Humane Society in late May after surviving a dog attack,” O’Reilly said. “The attacking dog was unfortunately shot. Her owner relinquished her to Alton Animal Control to deal with her injuries. Animal control officers reached out to us for assistance, and we said, ‘Yes,’ so she came to us the next day. “She was traumatized and in total shock when she came in after going through all of that. She was practically catatonic on the surgery table during her initial clean-up and exam, which you see at the start of the video,” O’Reilly added. The footage, shared to her TikTok account @oreillymady, starts with Peanut Butter being treated at the vets, looking, as O’Reilly said, “catatonic”. Barely moving or looking at her rescuers, the dog is then brought into a kennel in a blanket, where a choke chain had to be cut off her with bolt cutters as her neck had become so swollen from the attacks. From left: Peanut Butter looks “traumatized” and “catatonic” at the shelter in May after being attacked by a dog; before undergoing an incredible transformation after being fostered. Her carer told Newsweek the change in her… TikTok @oreillymady “Her back right foot was mangled, and she had multiple puncture wounds in her neck, which caused that swelling in her neck that you can see. The fluid built up so much that the choke chain she came in with was stuck around her neck, and we needed to call in next door’s county animal control to use their bolt cutters and give her some relief,” O’Reilly said. The viral video, watched over 567,000 times since being shared on June 1, then shows Peanut Butter lying quietly with a devastatingly sad expression in her kennel, safe but alone, and not reacting to an outreached hand. “She would cower in the corner of her kennel and, when the door would open, she went into survival mode and shook while avoiding eye contact,” O’Reilly said. Peanut Butter wasn’t interested in treats and was stressed out by all the noise and commotion of the shelter. O’Reilly worried about it turning her “into a dog she so obviously wasn’t.” Each year, around 6.3 million animals are taken into shelters across the United States, including 3.1 million dogs. While the number appears huge, it is far decreased from 2011, where around 7.2 million animals, including 3.9 million dogs, wound up in shelters. And in further positive news, around 4.1 million shelter animals are adopted each year, including 2 million dogs, according to the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals (ASPCA). O’Reilly made the decision to take Peanut Butter home as a foster, and the change in her is immediate: the video shows her become an adored pet, getting cuddles, laying in a soft bed with a smile on her face, playing and cuddling. Taking care to introduce Peanut Butter slowly, O’Reilly said she kept her separate from her other dogs for the first three days. And while she was first fearful of O’Reilly’s partner, Jonathan, she eventually opened up to the “best foster dad”. “That first night’s sleep is always my favorite part of bringing a foster home, and she took every bit of advantage of it,” O’Reilly said. “She had the cutest snores from her little gargoyle snout, and I cried happy tears to see her so relaxed. I literally couldn’t stop looking at her.” The dog is almost unrecognizable (right) from the terrified pup who arrived at the shelter (left). Peanut Butter has now found her very own forever home. TikTok @oreillymady Plenty of commenters on O’Reilly’s viral video of Peanut Butter urged her to adopt the dog permanently, but she said that, while those comments are “well-intentioned and sweet,” she is an advocate for “the importance of fostering and for not pressuring fosters to keep their pets.” “An adopted home is one home for one pet; a foster home is one home for potentially an endless amount of pets who can be helped. And there truly feels like an endless amount of pets who need that help.” And this week, things worked out the way they were supposed to: while working at the shelter, a young couple with two small children and another dog at home met Peanut Butter and immediately fell in love with her. “She was so gentle and sweet with their son,” O’Reilly said. “He dumped the whole bag of treats on the cement, and she was immediately his biggest fan.” O’Reilly has been sent updates on how Peanut Butter is settling in at her forever home and she is “already enjoying her new life,” she said. “She loves their kids and she loves their other dogs, and while her kennel was very noticeably empty last night, our hearts are super full to have been part of her story,” O’Reilly added. Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com 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. Read More