Parade Pets

Most of us have a grumpy face that sometimes we don’t even realize we’re making (also known as RBF).

That’s true for dogs also, and definitely for this sweet little black Pug who has such a great grumpy face that viewers can’t stop watching it in this now-viral dog video.

Puggy wuggy ☀️🐾 #pugsoftiktok #stitch #sun #fyp #blackpug

It’s the two teeth sticking out that really give it the full effect for me.

Obviously, the comments section was full of many opinions about what or who this grumpy little black Pug resembles.

“Does he sleep upside down hanging by his feet?!?!” one person wrote.

Another person suggested that the Pug named Stitch looked like Dracula.

A commenter even called him a “Pampire.” Perhaps for Halloween?

One commenter wrote, “Beautiful lil’ gargoyle.”

Another agreed as they wrote, “Where did you go to buy a gargoyle?”

Some commenters compared the little black Pug to film characters:

“Giving me Scarface vibes,” referencing the iconic Al Pacino film.

Another film fan said of the dog, “He looks like Carl from Sling Blade, and he wants to know if you can make him some biscuits.”

And some people were just huge fans of his teeth:

“So adorable, especially with those two teeth!!” one wrote.

Another said, “SPECTACULAR underbite, my friend”.

And finally, one commenter wrote, “Never seen a Pug with the look of JUSTICE on his face!!!!!!!!!”

Related: Tiny Pug Puppy Wearing a Tutu Is the Sweetest Little Potato We’ve Ever Seen

You may have noticed that Pugs often look quite grumpy, but in the most adorable way.

Though Pugs are known for being a little stubborn and easily miffed, as they were bred to be companion dogs, not workers or hunters, the way their faces look is somewhat out of their control.

Pugs are a brachycephalic breed, meaning they have short, flat faces.

The minute they scrunch their faces slightly, they tend to look a bit grumpy.

But no one looks quite as cute as Stitch, this little black Pug with those adorable teeth sticking out.

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You never know when you’re going to meet your best fur friend forever. Sometimes, the cat distribution system randomly chooses you, and it can happen in many ways, but you just know you’re meant to be together.

A Black Cat named Yuri chose his people by swatting at his PetSmart crate window. The rescue kitty was waiting for his forever family to *see* him, and once they did, he gave them one feisty, black panther-like show for the record books!

The adoption day journey from petsmart to his casa 🏡 happy original gotcha day my man #catadoption #adoptdontshop #catrescue

Yuri’s journey only began a short time ago, but this Black Cat from the streets of Los Angeles, who wasn’t in the best condition when he was rescued, is now having the time of his feline life doing big cat things in his small cat body!

A few things about this sweet and playful guy: His bio before being adopted said he’d be perfect for a “dog person” who can’t get a dog because he’s “the cat-dog for you!” The 2-year-old cat with “maximum” energy loves bouncing around and causing mischief, which is totally on-brand for any cat, TBH.

Related: Wobbly Black Kitten ‘Pepper Bottle Tall’ Transforms Into Thrilling Toilet Paper Heights

To fall in love with Yuri’s playful spirit even more, he likes showing off some of his skills and hobbies, like playing golf. He may not know how to hold the putter with his fluffy, black paws, but he’s still the MVP of his house golf team:

My cat is going to the nationals to pat everyone’s ball off the path #cutecats #catadoption #adoptdontshop

Aside from their obvious “black panther” look (thanks to higher melanin levels) and striking eyes that complement that dark fur (gold, copper, and green), there’s a whole lot of good that can come with adopting a Black Cat.

Despite their complicated lore—which puts them in the “overlooked in shelters and rescues” category—Black Cats like Yuri can be some of the best fur companions you could ever have.

These loving, smart, and playful pets are often naturally affectionate, social, and sweeter than many give them credit for. Black Cats can be huge fans of interacting with their humans, whether it’s playing a fun game or just hanging out for a good snuggle.

In case you thought it was only orange cats who acted a fool. Why was he raging in that first clip… I swear he doesn’t walk anywhere he only runs. It’s making operation out some weight on him really difficult #blackcatbehavior #cattok #blackcat

Forget the old wives’ tales about bad luck! In many cultures, it’s the opposite. In Egypt, Japan, and the UK, they’re said to bring good fortune and protection, form deep bonds with their families, and are loyal to the very end.

The bottom line? If you’re looking to add a shrunken jungle cat to the family, A Black Cat like Yuri is the literal cat’s meow!

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Usually, dogs are pretty smart, which is why they’re often trained to do specific jobs, such as service dog or police dog work. However, one pup is showing people that not every dog is cut out for work.

A Golden Retriever named Deejay is going viral after his parents posted a funny video on TikTok. In the clip, the pup is “about to form a thought,” and his facial expression is too funny.

Some days are just ruff 😅 #goldenretriever #funny #doggo #doglover #dogoftheday

LOL, the pup is hilarious. He had the derpiest look on his face as he sat there with his tongue poking out of his mouth. It appeared as if he was thinking really hard when he gave up and smiled. We’re cracking up!

People in the comments had some things to say about Deejay’s struggle to form a thought. One person said, “It’s like when someone is texting, and you see the bubbles stop.” Another viewer commented, “They’ll put so much effort into forming a thought only for it to be like ‘Chimkn’ or something.”

Others were scolding the pup’s parents for breaking his concentration. “He was ALMOST THERE! Why’d you guys interrupt?!” one viewer said.

Rumor has it Deejay is still trying to form his first thought!

Related: Golden Retriever Struts to the Door With Mom’s Designer Purse Like She Owns It

Despite Deejay’s derpy nature, Golden Retrievers are typically remarkably smart. These are one of the most common working breeds and were ranked number 4 on psychologist and dog lover Stanley Coren’s list of the smartest dogs.

Golden Retrievers are fast learners and people-pleasers. They pick up new tricks with limited practice and are highly motivated to listen to humans. This all makes them exceptionally easy to train, which is why they’re such common working dogs.

We’re likely to find these pups in a few different working jobs. Perhaps most notably, Goldens are often performing as service dogs. These are pups who have gone through rigorous training to learn to assist people who need an extra helping hand, or paw. Goldens are commonly search and rescue dogs because of their strong sense of smell and focus. Lastly, these pups are often hunting dogs, as they were originally bred to hunt ducks and geese.

If you’re looking to train a Golden of your own, you should start their training as early as possible, use treats and praise as positive reinforcement, and keep training sessions approximately 5 to 10 minutes to avoid losing their focus. Prioritize impulse control and socialization, and channel their natural retrieving instincts into structured games.

While Golden Retrievers are typically super-smart pups, Deejay is subverting expectations. Hopefully, he can find that thought he had lost!

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Ever wanted to have a fluffy cloud as a pet?

Well, this adorable Chow Chow puppy comes downright close to being a cloud walking on four legs.

This heartwarming dog video is stealing hearts everywhere, and people have a lot to say about this fluffy little cloud.

Just a little cloud spreading happiness ☁️🤍 #chowchow #puppylove #teddybear #cutepuppy #fluffypuppy

Look at that face!

How can you not be happy when you look at it?!

The commenters agreed with that assessment:

“What a beautiful fluffy cloud…… with a happy tail!!” one wrote.

Another said, “So cute. I love her. She made my day.”

“What a sweet little Chow!!!!!” someone else said.

Related: Adorable Chow Chow Puppy Looks Like the World’s Cushiest Pillow

It is hard to believe that Chow Chows wouldn’t be good family dogs who just want to cuddle all day with those sweet faces and fluffy bodies.

Though they are generally good family dogs, there are a few things to know about this rather unique breed.

Compared to some other breeds, Chow Chows aren’t that affectionate despite having such smushy, lovable faces you could hold all day in your hands.

According to Best Pet Facts, Chow Chows are actually very independent and don’t seek affection and attention all day, unlike other breeds like, for example, Golden Retrievers.

They are a bit more like cats in that sense.

They also don’t seek attention from strangers if you have guests over, and they don’t feel the need to walk up to everyone on the street to get adored (which again may be something you see more with Golden Retrievers, but we love them too!).

But also, like cats, just because they aren’t clinging to your side all day, it doesn’t mean they don’t love their humans.

They are very loyal and protective of their families.

Training and early socialization will help Chow Chows reach their full potential, as these are very smart dogs who can make excellent canine companions for a family.

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I think the best kind of hero story is the one where nobody makes a big speech. Someone just notices an animal struggling and does the obvious, kind thing.

That’s exactly what happens in this video.

Temperatures had climbed past 40 degrees Celsius (104 degrees Fahrenheit), and the local ducks were clearly feeling it. They are tucked into the shade, trying to survive the heat, and you can see them panting. It’s not cute in the “ducks being dramatic” way. It’s the kind of heat that makes everything go still.

Then a young girl steps in with the simplest idea: Bring the cool-down to them.

She sets up a sprinkler in the shade, and the change is immediate. The ducks don’t need a formal invitation. They get up, waddle over, and move right in like someone opened the neighborhood splash pad just for them.

I swear you can see the relief hit their bodies.

The panting slows. The flock gathers. The little wing movements start looking less like distress and more like duck gratitude. I’m not saying they gave thank-you honks and wing waves, but they absolutely did.

The post describes the moment as a reminder that not all heroes wear capes, and this is one of those times where the internet can put the cynicism down for a second. A person saw animals struggling in brutal heat and helped them. That’s the whole story, and it’s enough.

One commenter urged people not to forget wildlife as the planet gets hotter, and that’s what stays with me. These ducks were lucky someone noticed. So many animals can’t knock on a door, ask for a drink, or explain that they are overheating.

Sometimes kindness looks like a sprinkler under a tree.

Sometimes it looks like someone is paying attention.

When birds are panting, hiding, or sitting unusually still in hot weather, they may be trying hard to cool down. For moments like this, the RSPCA’s heatwave wildlife advice keeps the help simple: fresh water, shade, and gentle cooling when needed.

• Set out shallow water in the shade. Use a low dish or tray so ducks and smaller birds can drink, stand, or splash without getting trapped.
• Keep it clean and cool. Refresh the water often, especially on extreme heat days.
• Help without crowding. Watch from a distance once the water is out, and call a local wildlife rescue if an animal seems weak, injured, or unable to move.

These ducks didn’t need a miracle. They needed one person to notice the heat and care enough to turn on the water.

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Related: Ducks Decide a Bulldog Is Their New Mom and Follow Her Around Just Like Puppies

The only thing better than a cute pet is a cute pet in a sweater. No matter the breed, size or personality, once you get your adorable little furball into a stylish sweater, it changes the way you look at them entirely. 

If anyone knows how to bring out your pet’s best features, it’s Aldi. As summer comes to a close, Aldi is bringing back its popular pet sweater in an all-new seasonal lineup perfect for fall. Our favorite pick of the bunch? The Heart to Tail Multi Stripe Pet Sweater, hitting stores with a collegiate-inspired look that any good boy or girl would look absolutely incredible in.

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Aldi

Hitting stores starting Wednesday, Aug. 19, the Multi Stripe Pet Sweater is part of a long line of fan-favorite pet finds from the Aldi-based brand, offering parents an affordable approach to pet fashion. At $4.99, this green, blue and gray-striped sweater features a classic pullover design that slips on and off with ease, complete with two sleeves for the front legs and a ribbed foldable collar. 

Available alongside styles like Fig Cablenit and Cowl Neck, the Multi Stripe Pet Sweater is perfect for small to medium-sized dogs and comes in sizes XS through XL so you can find the right fit. Not too thick and easy to move with your pet’s body, it’s breathable yet cozy design is also ideal for breezy days, chilly weather and cold office spaces alike, giving you plenty of opportunities to dress you up in an adorable outfit.

Related: Five Below’s $20 Velvet Ottoman Is a Chic Storage Solution for Pet Parents

Whether you’re taking your dog for a hike on a brisk fall morning, letting them run around at the park or bringing them to the vet for a checkup, this lightweight fall layer is an easy way to keep them warm and comfortable while always looking their best. Its soft fabric and snug fit might even help some pets through moments of anxiety or stress, as it can serve as a comforting layer that helps them feel secure in unfamiliar or stressful situations. 

If you’re already imagining all the adorable photo moments possible with this sweater wrapped around your pup’s fluffy body, don’t wait too long after it drops on Aug. 19 to go scoop it up. As is the case every fall and winter season, these pet sweaters tend to sell fast in every color. And with this collegiate look likely to be the fan-favorite of the lot, you can bet other pet parents have it on their wish list.

While you’re there, why not upgrade your pet’s sleeping arrangement with the Heart to Tail Novelty Toadstool Pet Bed, too?

Related: T.J. Maxx’s $17 Pet Cuddler Looks Like It Belongs in a Ralph Lauren Catalog

Living in a pet household means finding creative storage solutions for both your needs and your pet’s. From toys and treats to grooming supplies, leashes, collars and more, the key to keeping everything organized and easily accessible is finding ways to tuck it all away without sacrificing the style or function of your space. 

Fortunately, you don’t have to look too hard for the perfect pet-friendly storage upgrade, as it’s currently waiting to be discovered at your local Five Below. Available in two colors for just $20, Five Below’s Oval Velvet Ottoman is an elegant solution for any organizational job, offering collapsible construction and a soft velvet finish for all your pet storage needs.

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Five Below

Obviously, a bit outside of Five Below’s typical $5-and-under price range but well worth the extra $15, the Oval Velvet Ottoman serves as an easy home upgrade with a collapsible design ready for just about any situation. Sold in both Cream and Pink colorways, it boasts an elegant appearance with a soft velvet exterior that any furball would love to curl up next to or on top of. 

And speaking of your friendly pets, this ottoman isn’t just a creative footrest you can toss various items inside of; it’s essentially a mobile storage bin that doubles as stylish home decor. Capable of elevating bedrooms, living rooms, dorm rooms and more, it’s just as good at corralling items like blankets, books, chargers and remotes as it is at keeping your pet’s toys, grooming supplies and other essentials tucked in one place.

Related: Aldi’s Popular $15 Pet Bed Looks Like It Belongs in an Enchanted Forest

Five Below

As for its overall size, this ottoman stands 13.8 inches tall with a 24-by-13-inch footprint and a maximum weight capacity of 250 pounds. Surprisingly sturdy and easy to assemble, it comes ready for action with just three pieces to put together: a collapsible hollow main body, a flat rigid base insert and a matching removable lid. Even better, its collapsible design lets you easily take it apart and tuck it away without taking up a lot of extra space.

Whether you snag one for yourself or a friend with pets of their own, one thing is for certain: Five Below’s Oval Velvet Ottoman is well worth the $20 investment. It delivers plenty of function and style with minimal effort required to put it to use, while both cats and small dogs alike can enjoy its soft, inviting exterior, and you can enjoy a cleaner space in return.

Looking for more Five Below shopping inspo? Check out these Dole for Pets Strawberry & Pineapple Chews and this stylish $15 Bogg Bag dupe.

Related: T.J. Maxx’s $17 Pet Cuddler Looks Like It Belongs in a Ralph Lauren Catalog

Giant dog breeds can be very intimidating. Seeing a dog who’s basically the size of a human is crazy, and if they come at you quickly, it’s only natural to wonder if you’re about to get run over. Most of the time, you won’t, but you never know!

Recently, a Newfoundland and an Irish Wolfhound ran into each other on the street, and it was a sight to behold. The two of them got into a hilarious giant-off, and it looked like a showdown that could shake the earth:

7 y/o Newfoundland Giulio vs 1 y/o Irish Wolfhound Achilles🐾 Two giants. Two completely different vibes 🐺🐻 #newfoundland #irishwolfhound #bigdog #giantbreed #trevisoitaly🇮🇹

Lika Wolfhounds simply had one of their dogs, Achilles, out for a walk. They live in Ukraine, and while they were walking, they ran into Giulio, a 7-year-old Newfoundland. This was their first time meeting, and based on the way they looked, you might not know who’s older!

It’s Giulio. At 7 years old, Giulio is fully grown: Achilles still has several years left until he gets there. Newfoundlands and Irish Wolfhounds are different kinds of giant, though, so they end up looking almost equal!

Related: Newfoundland Swims Out and Almost ‘Makes Friends’ With a Pod of Dolphins

Achilles actually has a sister, too: Luna. She’s also an Irish Wolfhound, and when the two of them are together, it’s even more intimidating. Seeing these two on a walk at night must certainly be something!

🇮🇹 Ragazzi volevano conoscere i nostri wolfhound… io ho detto: ok, incontriamoci 🐺✨ È stato super semplice e bello: tante emozioni, risate e chiacchiere. Davvero felici di questa conoscenza 🇺🇦 Ребята хотіли познайомитися з нашими вовкодавами… я сказала: ок, давайте зустрінемось 🐺✨ Все пройшло дуже легко і тепло: багато емоцій, сміху і розмов. Ми дуже раді цьому знайомству #🐺 #gentlegiant

Even though they’re a little terrifying, they’re also adorable. I just know they love to climb in bed every night and take up 90% of it.

Both the Irish Wolfhound and the Newfoundland are considered “giant” dog breeds, but they look completely different. From looks alone, Achilles towers over Giulio considerably, but the truth is that the “fight” is much fairer than it looks.

Anita Kot / Getty Images

Technically, the Irish Wolfhound is bigger than the Newfoundland. While Newfies typically measure at about 28 inches tall at their largest, Irish Wolfhounds are a minimum of 30″ tall, and even taller for males. They also weigh more by about 20-30 pounds on average. Newfoundlands might appear bigger, though, because they’re:

• Shorter, giving them a “stockier” build.
• Fluffier, which contributes to the perception of their size.
• Less leggy: Irish Wolfhounds might look a bit smaller because their legs can sometimes appear disproportionate.

When all is said and done, Wolfhounds are bigger. All giant dog breeds are so awesome, if I had to pick, I don’t think I could choose!

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For every dog sporting a cool bandana, somewhere out there is an equally precious cat happily exploring the world in a knitted hat. That’s the world we all want to live in, and one special-needs rescue cat named Elvis is definitive proof why.

This “wobbly” Black Cat has cerebellar hypoplasia (CH), which causes him to literally “wobble” as he walks and investigates new things. But when Elvis is wearing this adorable knitted strawberry hat, he’s cuter than any berry in the patch!

Happy Wobbly Wednesday. New here? Elvis’s little hats help calm his tremors. Elvis was born with a different brain, but communicates much better than normal cats. Mum will be out today, Cha Cha is heading to a neurologist and hopefully we come back with good news. Elvis and friends will be partying with their sitter today 🎉 #cat #nature #elviswestley #wobblycat

Tre Gatti Farms is the special-needs animal sanctuary where Elvis gets to be his wonderful, wobbly self, and he couldn’t be any sweeter. As you can see, he’s not your average Black Cat. When Elvis has supervised outdoor time with Mom, he takes in every moment, and it’s all thanks to the confidence he has when he wears one of his many knitted hats.

This earth angel has been compared to a garden fairy, a trembling frog, and the most handsome boy in the world—all of these are correct, but he’s so much more than his condition.

Related: Black Cat’s Wobbly Workout With Tiny Weights Is Peak Gym Bro Energy

Wobbly or not, this is one cat who doesn’t let physical setbacks stop him from living his best life. And if you thought Elvis’ strawberry hat was a winner, take a look at another of his precious bonnets.

Happy Wobbly Wednesday Elvis was born with a Dandy-Walker malformation, which means his brain developed differently. It makes him wobbly, but it doesn’t stop him from finding joy. If yesterday wasn’t your favorite chapter, that’s okay. Today gets to write a new one. Shine on, wobbly diamonds 💎 #cat #catsoftiktok #wobblycat #dandywalkersyndrome

For a little guy who just turned 2 years old in mid-July, you’d never guess his journey began at 7 weeks old when Mom found him outside wobbling and struggling to walk. Lots of vet appointments, X-rays, MRIs, and tests later, and he’s still here, showing the world how amazing special-needs cats can be with enough love.

Cerebellar hypoplasia in cats is a noncontagious, nonprogressive neurological condition in which the part of the brain responsible for balance and coordination (the cerebellum) doesn’t fully develop. CH is often called “wobbly cat syndrome” (for obvious reasons) and causes tremors when the kitty moves.

For some wobbly cats, lightweight hats (fitted comfortably and not forced) like Elvis’ can be a lifesaver in terms of offering a better quality of life while dealing with the permanent condition.

Elvis gets genuinely upset when I take away his hats 😹 His hats don’t just make him look adorable, they help reduce his tremors. While most cats with cerebellar hypoplasia don’t respond this way, the gentle pressure seems to help Elvis. We’re still waiting for his upcoming neurology appointment to learn whether his wobble is caused by CH, a spinal condition, or a combination of both. Until then… the hats stay 💚🐈‍⬛ #cat #neurodivergent #elviswestley #wobblycat

As Elvis’s mom explains in multiple posts, the gentle, consistent pressure to the head helps stabilize the tremors, so they can focus on being a cat. In a nutshell, hats like an adorable strawberry-knitted cap can help kitties feel confident and secure while they explore. Elvis actually gets mad when Mom removes his because he loves the feeling so much.

Though these hats don’t help every cat with CH, they do help some feel a little less frustrated when the tremors kick in. As for Elvis, there may never be a more precious or wobbly berry in the whole patch!

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Dogs who are fostered need time to acclimate to their new surroundings. Many canines who wind up in shelters or rescues have traumatic pasts of abuse and abandonment. Foster parents play a key role in helping these fur babies trust again.

Sometimes the best support comes from a fellow furry friend. Mesa the foster dog was very anxious in her new environment, so Margarine the Pit Bull helped put her at ease.

Mesa didn’t have separation anxiety her first night with us but after that it started to show. At first I kept her separate from my dogs because she came with a slight cough. Kennel cough is so common in shelter dogs but thankfully she hasn’t coughed since starting her medication. Margarine has been keeping her company today, and she’s the perfect dog for the job. I hate that we’ll probably never know Mesa’s story. Was she taken from her mom too young, or did she spend her first eight months surviving alongside her before they were separated? Whatever she’s been through, it’s clear she’s carrying a lot with her. We’re going to do everything we can to help her feel safe. I took Mesa back to the vet today for more bloodwork, and unfortunately there hasn’t been any improvement yet. We’ll be back again tomorrow to see if her anemia is starting to improve. The vet is prepared to do a blood transfusion tomorrow if necessary. For now, we’re sticking to her refeeding schedule, letting her rest, and praying her little body responds the way we all hope it will. ❤️ Mesa’s rescue- Finding Eden Rescue #fosteringsaveslives #mesa #rescuedog #fosterdog

The TikTok from @bristexastails showed little Mesa, a rescue dog from Finding Eden Rescue, snuggling with her big Pittie sister in a dog bed. Apparently, the foster pup’s anxiety grew as time went on, so Margarine stepped in to lend a paw.

“Mesa didn’t have separation anxiety her first night with us but after that it started to show,” the caption explained. “Margarine has been keeping her company today, and she’s the perfect dog for the job.”

Mesa’s background is a mystery, though she’s clearly been through a lot of stress. Her foster mom is giving the canine cutie lots of love and comfort to lessen her fears.

“I hate that we’ll probably never know Mesa’s story,” the caption continued. “Was she taken from her mom too young, or did she spend her first eight months surviving alongside her before they were separated? Whatever she’s been through, it’s clear she’s carrying a lot with her. We’re going to do everything we can to help her feel safe.”

Many dogs placed in foster homes have trauma in their past and need compassion and patience in their new environment. Gentle communication, a structured routine, and positive reinforcement will help your foster dog start to let their guard down. Other tips include:

Related: Rescue Pit Bull Mix ‘Terrified of Everything’ Shows the Sweetest Sign of Trust

• Create a safe space for your foster where it’s calm and quiet so they can have some time to themselves to decompress.
• Follow your dog’s cues on interaction and let them set the pace on socializing. Don’t force closeness — give your foster pooch the space they need until they feel secure.
• Proceed slowly with exposures to new environments and introductions to new people. Stick to calm activities until your dog feels more comfortable.

Margarine was happy to give Mesa the support she needed. In addition to a new foster home, Mesa also has a new BFF.

For more information on Finding Eden Rescue, visit their website.

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If you’ve ever tried to do an at-home haircut, then you know that styling hair is hard work. There’s a reason why stylists have to go to school before they can cut hair! Well, one woman is learning this lesson with her furry friend.

A Goldendoodle mom recently shared a viral video of her dog named Alpha. In the clip, the pup sits on a bed while the camera pans around him to show off the fresh haircut his mom gave him. His new look is nothing short of incredible.

She turned me into a Warthog🐗 #fyp #dog #goldendoodle #trend #foryou

Alpha sure does look… unique. The at-home haircut his mom gave him is a bit on the uneven side. The text in the video says she made him look like “a warthog who lost a fight with a lawn mower.” That’s pretty accurate!

People in the comments are cracking lighthearted jokes at Alpha’s expense. One person said, “Never seen a dog with a mullet before,” and another person commented, “Give that dog a members-only jacket, a Marlboro Red, and a ’78 Pontiac Trans Am!”

Others are praising his mom for a valiant attempt, such as one viewer who said, “Great job! Be proud of that groom. Mine are not perfect either, but they are brushed and clipped. No painful mats to pull skin.” Another person is encouraging his mom to keep it up and commented, “Don’t give up! You’ll get better each time. I did. He’s still a cutie!!!”

This pup is certainly turning heads with his new hairstyle!

Alpha’s not the only fur baby whose human butchered a haircut. At-home grooming can be harder than it looks for a few reasons.

Dogs move unpredictably. They rarely sit still, making it easy to accidentally cut loose skin around their armpits, hind legs, and ears. If you have a food-motivated pup, then you might be able to bribe them into staying still for a snack, such as a lick mat smeared with peanut butter, but even eating causes minor movements.

Related: Brussels Griffon’s ‘ZZ Top Beard’ Makes Him Look Like He ‘Drives a Harley’

A dog might also undergo stress when they’re being groomed. The buzz of the clippers and the feeling of the brushes in sensitive areas can cause anxiety, turning a simple trim into a wrestling match that can increase the risk of injury.

Most people don’t have the proper tools either. Standard human clippers can pull, and they lack the power to glide through thick coats. Tangles tight against the skin create more challenges and make it impossible to pass a blade safely without hurting the pup’s skin.

Without professional training, proper restraint techniques, and special tools, DIY grooming carries a high risk of accidental nicks, uneven cuts, and skin irritation.

While we understand the temptation to attempt at-home haircuts, it’s best to find a professional groomer you trust and can return to time and time again. This is a safe investment in your dog’s long-term well-being.

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Summer may be starting to wind down, but it’s not too late to set up bird houses to attract songbirds and other feathered friends. And Walmart has a popular option available for such a low price, you could even pick up two if you wanted.

The Pennington Red Cedar Bluebird Wild Bird House, which is marked as a “best seller” on Walmart’s website, is only $13. Plus, it’s a fan favorite with an average 4.6-star out of 5 overall rating based on more than 1,400 reviews.

The birdhouse is made of Eastern Red Cedar, making it naturally resistant to weather. It’s the perfect size for bluebirds (and similarly sized songbirds) to use for nesting, with its 1.56-inch opening that meets Bluebird Society guidelines.

The birdhouse has air vents in the wall and floor openings for good circulation, and opens in the front for easy cleaning — which is a huge pro for anyone who has ever bought a cheap non-opening birdhouse only to realize how much of a pain that can be.

Its innovative design also means that it can be installed with a pole mount, or flush to a tree or post.

Courtesy of Walmart

This little birdhouse can house an adult and 5 to 6 baby birds. It’s 6.75 inches long, 6.5 inches wide, and 13 inches tall, and it was “manufactured by (an) Amish master craftsman,” according to the manufacturer.

ALSO SEE: Walmart’s 2-in-1 Cedar Bird Feeder Adds Rustic Charm to Your Backyard

Shoppers are loving this birdhouse for its fresh, natural appearance, durability, and low cost. Here is what a couple of other reviewers had to say online:

• “Was delighted with the design so I ordered four more… I’m ready to put them out for my gorgeous bluebirds. They deserve everything.”
• “I have had Chickadees, Bluebirds and Titmice build nests and fledge their young.”

One shopper even said they “had a bird within two days” of putting up the bird house! Others rave about all the different adorable birds it attracts, and love it so much that they’ve gotten more to put up all around their property.

Related: Home Depot’s Charming Pub-Shaped Bird Feeder Adds Whimsical Style to Any Yard

Related: Tractor Supply’s Charming Cafe Bird Feeder Creates the Cutest Backyard Dining Spot

I love unlikely animal friendships, but a French Mastiff having an ongoing evening rendezvous with a deer feels like someone accidentally filmed the softest fairy tale at the park.

In the video, the big dog meets his deer friend near a lake, and the whole thing feels almost too gentle to be real. They move around each other with that careful, curious energy animals sometimes have when they’re not sure how this friendship started, but they have both decided to keep showing up.

The caption calls it an evening rendezvous, which is exactly the right word. This doesn’t feel like a random wildlife sighting. These two have a standing appointment. The French Mastiff arrives with giant dog sweetness, and the deer seems to understand the routine.

I love that there are multiple videos of them together, because that changes the whole feeling. It’s not one lucky clip where a dog got excited and a deer happened to tolerate it. It’s a little tradition. A weird, beautiful park friendship with hooves, paws, and apparently a shared calendar.

One commenter pointed out why the clip feels different from so many dog-and-deer videos online. Sometimes those interactions look one-sided, with a dog trying to play while the deer wants to leave, defend itself, or escape. Here, the body language reads much softer. The deer isn’t being chased into a panic, and the dog isn’t steamrolling the moment. It feels more like mutual curiosity than chaos.

That is what makes it so easy to watch. The French Mastiff is huge, but he doesn’t come across like a threat. The deer is delicate, but not helpless. They look like two wildly mismatched friends who somehow figured out their own rules.

I still think moments like this need careful human eyes nearby, because deer are wild animals and dogs are dogs. But when a rare bond happens gently, it’s hard not to feel lucky that someone caught it on video.

Some friendships happen at work, some happen at school, and apparently, some happen beside a lake between a Mastiff and a deer who keep choosing the same place at the same time.

A dog and deer friendship may look magical, but you still want to protect both animals. The National Park Service’s wildlife safety guide tells us to give wildlife space, avoid feeding them, and keep encounters from becoming risky.

• Watch for mutual choices. If the deer backs away, stiffens, stomps, lowers its head, or tries to flee, call your dog back calmly.
• Keep distance when needed. Even gentle dogs can accidentally scare wildlife, and even calm deer can kick, charge, or panic.
• Don’t encourage chasing. A sweet moment should never turn into practice for prey drive, so recall and leash control matter.

This French Mastiff and deer may have their own little rendezvous, but safety is still the best wingman.

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Related: Giant Mastiff ‘Corralled’ by the Tiniest Fence Follows All the Rules

Parade Pets aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Indoor cats need lots of mental stimulation and easy opportunities for zoomies. Thanks to this Walmart deal, you can provide just that without breaking the bank.

The Domipet Cat Wall Shelves Set is now just $50, down from its original price of $70.

This space-saving design turns your wall into a veritable playground for your kitties. It’s made from wood and sisal rope and includes five fun pieces.

They include a scratching pad, a scratching post with three perches, a cat bed, a separate cat shelf, and a cute cat condo with an attached bridge/hammock.

The manufacturer notes that this is “crafted from thick particleboard and supported by triangular metal brackets, each piece holds up to 22 lbs securely.” Plus, all parts are pre-drilled to make installation easy.

Courtesy of Walmart

The set securely mounts to solid walls like concrete, stone, solid brick, and natural dense stone. If installing on drywall, make sure you only install onto wooden studs for stability and safety.

Buyers have rated this 4.3 out of 5 stars on Walmart’s website. They say it’s “very easy to assemble.” One buyer wrote: “The booklet tells you where to have everything line up to fit wall stud arrangement and where you’ll actually need to use wall anchors which drywall type are provided as well as screws to use with studs.”

Reviewers say their cats wasted no time getting on the playset.

• “As soon as I got any piece up on the wall he was all over it so it’s easy to say he is going to get a whole lot of enjoyment out of it.”
• “We have four cats and they all love it! We actually purchased two of them and did one whole wall.”

Walmart offers free shipping options with this set, along with free 90-day returns, if needed.

Related: Walmart’s Highly Rated Cactus Cat Tree Gives Kitties a Desert-Inspired Retreat

Related: PetSmart’s Adorable Couch Cat Scratcher Gives Kitties Tiny Furniture of Their Own

Many of us find old people to be quite cute. Many of us also find kittens to be quite adorable.

So what if you combined them? That’s what is happening with this sweet smoke gray Maine Coon kitten: his rather grumpy face and dark fluffy coat make him look like an old man, and viewers are having a field day with it.

Meet this little smoke gray Maine Coon, just over 2 months old. #mainecooncat #mainecoon #mainecoonkitten #ashmainecoon #smokegraycat

The smoke gray Maine Coon kitten is just a little over 2 months old, but his face is beautiful and wise (and grumpy) beyond his years!

“What a beautiful, majestic baby!!!” one person wrote in the comments.

Another wrote, “Beautiful, precious little sweetheart.”

And then, of course, several commenters wondered where they could get this majestic cat.

This cat is from a Maine Coon breeding company, but it looks like it’s located in Australia, so it may not be so convenient for everyone.

Related: Maine Coon’s Litter of Stunning Kittens Is in Their ‘Chaos’ Phase—and They’re Owning It

Curious about smoke gray Maine Coon cats? With such an interesting-looking kitty, how could you not be curious?

Smoke gray Maine Coon cats are Maine Coons, but with very distinctive coats.

The way their hairs are colored—lighter at the roots and then progressively darker until the tips—creates a smoky effect, hence the name, and it’s considered quite rare.

Smoke gray Maine Coons usually come in black, blue, red, cream, and Tortoiseshell, according to Catster.com.

Since smoke gray Maine Coons are just another variation of the Maine Coon breed, they have the same personality traits, including high energy, curious, friendly, loyal, and trainable.

It’s also hard to believe that this 2-month-old smoke gray Maine Coon kitten will soon be fully grown and quite large.

When they reach adult size after 12 months, females are typically between 12 and 15 pounds, and males will reach between 18 and 22 pounds.

But no matter how big he gets, hopefully he will always maintain that old-man face.

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I don’t know who started making tiny hats for dogs, but I’d like to personally thank them for their service. Every now and then the internet gifts us a video that’s so ridiculously wholesome it improves your mood almost instantly, and this little Chihuahua in a newsboy cap absolutely qualifies.

The best part is that he already looks like a tiny gentleman before the hat even appears. Add one adorable little cap, though, and suddenly he looks like he’s about to sell me today’s newspaper, tell me the golf course is running behind schedule, or politely ask if I’d care for a spot of tea.

He was SO excited to show you his new hat 🎩 💜 #dogsofinstagram #chihuahua #chihuahualife #cutedog #dogreel

The impossibly cute clip was shared by TikTok user @littlechiiworrld, and it starts with the tiny black-and-white Chihuahua staring sweetly into the camera.

The caption asks, “Do you wanna see my new hat?”

Then, after a dramatic pause, it reads, “Wait, you do?”

Obviously we do.

The video cuts to the little pup proudly wearing the most adorable newsboy cap you’ve ever seen as the caption asks, “Here it is. Do you like it?”

Related: Dapper Cat With ‘Mustache’ Is Giving Major Distinguished Gentleman Vibes

Like it?

Sir, I’m prepared to buy a subscription to whatever newspaper you’re selling.

The comments immediately turned into a meeting of the Distinguished Gentleman’s Society.

“Such a distinguished little gentleman in his fancy hat.”

Couldn’t have said it better.

Another viewer admitted, “Got such a big dopamine hit from this almost passed out.”

Honestly, same.

“So handsome and distinguished.”

One person looked at the tiny hat and immediately had questions.

“Are you going to sell me a newspaper or play a round of golf?”

The answer is obviously both.

Another viewer wrote, “I was not expecting that style. Brilliant.”

Someone else decided he’d wandered straight out of Peaky Blinders.

“He’s a Peaky Blinder.”

And another commenter gave him perhaps the cutest job title of all:

“Omg! He looks like a little newsey!”

Now all I can picture is him running down the sidewalk yelling, “Extra! Extra!”

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I’m so excited for Halloween, though I do think a lot of stores are getting crazy with how early they put stuff out. Like, why on earth was I seeing Halloween aisles in early August?! I mean, I’m burning a brand new pumpkin candle right now, but I’m mad about it!

One thing I will never be mad at, however, are spooky kittens. Recently, one kitten caught everyone’s attention: she was posted with the rest of her litter, but she stole the show! Her face is spooky, smoky, and so precious:

Look! A colorful kitty~ #threecoloredmainecoon #mainecoonkitten#cutepet #selfbreeding

Majestic Maine Coons is home to lots of cats and kittens, given that they’re an Australia-based cattery, but these three are some of their greatest hits. The kitten in the middle, in particular, has everyone totally smitten! I love that they have three different colors in the same video.

It’s unclear exactly who this spooky-smoke kitten’s parents are: lots of cats have been posted on the account, and in lots of different colors. However, it doesn’t really matter: her coat tells us everything we need to know! She’s a Tortie Smoke.

Related: Grey Maine Coon Gives Birth to a Litter of Baby Dust Bunnies

Majestic Maine Coons is no stranger to having incredible kittens. Miss Spooky Smoke is absolutely stunning, but there’s another kitten whose face forms a near-perfect Yin-Yang symbol, and he’s perfect:

Just look at this, super well-behaved #mainecoonkitten #mainecooncat #maine #grewonmyheartba #cutetothepointofbubblingover

I think I want every single cat from this cattery. I want to take them all home, but unfortunately, that’s not possible. I can’t wait to continue to watch them grow up until they’re big enough to find forever homes, at least.

This kitten may have a layer of smoke settling over her coat, but she’s also a Tortie. That means a few things: she’s definitely a girl, she probably has an attitude problem, and her coat is made up of black and orange, with no large white spots. Tortie cats feel much more Halloween to me than black cats!

Nils Jacobi / Getty Images

Black and orange are the most common colors you’ll find on a Tortoiseshell cat, though there are others. Depending on the genetic pair, you could have:

• Cinnamon Tortoiseshell.
• Diluted Tortoiseshell (grey/tan, for example).
• Blue Tortoiseshell (which is rare).
• Chimera Torties, where two embryos fuse into one cat. (also rare).

There are some other combinations, but they’ll be pretty hard to come by. The most common Tortie you’ll find is black and orange, though occasionally, they’ll have some Smoke thrown in that’ll change everything!

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Cats are going to scratch something—that’s a given. The question for cat parents is whether it will be your sofa, rug or whatever else they can get their paws on.

You can spend a fortune on a beautiful bed, and your cat will sleep on the cardboard box it came in. You can buy a scratching post and watch them immediately choose the sofa. This cat bed takes a different approach, combining sleeping and scratching in a clever design.

The Bungalow Rose Cat Ear Cotton Rope Cat Bed combines a cozy place to sleep with a scratching surface, giving cats something to curl up in and something they are actually encouraged to scratch. And right now, it is on sale for just $27.99, down from $78.99.

The best part about the bed is the cotton rope construction. The sturdy rope doubles as a scratching surface, giving cats an outlet they naturally seek. For some cats, the best scratching post is the one already sitting in the exact spot where they want to sleep.

Related: Costco’s Cat Tree Is Half Jungle Gym, Half Statement Furniture, and Completely Brilliant

Dimensions are 18.9 by 19.7 by 5.5 inches, just enough to fit small to medium cats. At less than $30, the bed comes with a soft, removable cushion, giving your cat both comfort and entertainment.

The lightweight design allows you to move the bed where your cat loves to spend its day. You can put it beside the sofa or move it to a sunny spot where your cat can nap and sunbathe.

For cat parents who want to save money, this two-in-one piece is an amazing option and is a better alternative than watching your cat turn your sofa into a scratching post.

Also, remember that location is everything. Don’t hide it somewhere your cat cannot find it. Place the bed where your cat loves to scratch. If your cat loves the sofa, place the bed nearby to make it a more appealing option.

Related: The #1 Way to Stop Your Cat From Scratching the Furniture, According to Experts

Becoming a new parent can be overwhelming. For dogs, they are instantly outnumbered with an entire litter of puppies, all requiring care and attention. Tending to each little fur baby can be quite a daunting task for even the most seasoned pooch parents.

Horton the Bulldog finally came face-to-face with his puppies and immediately felt outmanned by the sheer number of his offspring.

In the Instagram video from @trevinos_bulldogs, Horton walked into a room and was greeted by a swarm of Bulldog puppies.

“When daddy Horton met his babies for the first time,” the caption explained.

Horton gently sniffed his pups to get acquainted, and they quickly rushed to give their dad some sniffs in return. The papa pooch soon felt overwhelmed and lumbered over to the dog bed to collect his thoughts, but his puppies didn’t want to let him out of their site. Every one of his fur babies followed their father and even tried to nurse from him, which made him feel more trapped.

Soon, the puppies were like his shadow as he kept trying to escape their ambush. Horton had a “the walls are closing in” look on his face and searched for an exit, but to no avail. Followers got a kick out of the comical scene and guessed what may have been going through his mind:

• “Mom’s back there like ‘See what I’ve had to deal with this past month? You can babysit for a bit, I’m taking a nap!’” one joked.
• “He’s like, this is too much,” another commented.
• “Looks like dad ain’t ready to be a dad,” a follower pointed out.
• “He’s like… get back… give me some space,” someone posted.

Dogs have strong parental role models in their ancestry line from wolves. Father wolves share in the puppy-raising duties, serving as protector and teaching his pups survival skills.

Related: Bulldog Realizes Mom Is Talking to the Vet — and Her Dramatic Reaction Is Too Funny

However, since canines don’t have to hunt in the wild for their basic necessities, male dogs aren’t required to take on a lot of the responsibilities with puppy rearing. Male dogs are almost indifferent to their puppies, and most aren’t present when the litter is born.

Still, dogs are pack animals like their predecessors and can form special bonds with their puppies. In time, Horton may embrace fatherhood and become very close with his canine cuties.

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I love it when two dogs are technically both doing their jobs, but one of them has decided his job comes with permission to smack a coworker.

In the video, Dixie Belle, the horse, is grazing peacefully, minding her own beautiful business, while Rosco, the herd dog, starts circling a little too close. From far away, you can already feel Cletus watching the situation like pasture security just got a suspicious alert.

Cletus adores Dixie Belle, and the caption makes it clear this is not new information. So when Rosco moves in like he might nip or push her along, Cletus decides the meeting is over.

Then comes the smack.

Not a dramatic fight. Not a full scene. Just one perfectly timed livestock guardian dog correction that says, “Thank you, Rosco, but your services are not required near my girl today.”

That’s why I love this video so much. Rosco probably thinks he is helping. Herd dog sees horse. Herd dog sees movement. Herd dog thinks, “Great, I have a task.” Cletus, meanwhile, has a completely different department. He’s not moving livestock. He’s protecting his favorite horse from unnecessary nonsense.

One commenter summed up the whole conflict perfectly by imagining both dogs thinking the same thing: They are just trying to do their jobs. Rosco’s clocked in for herding. Cletus is clocked in for security. Dixie Belle is simply trying to eat grass without being turned into a workplace dispute.

I get it because my dog Lola is always trying to herd everything, and if you don’t understand the breed, it can seem fully insane. Heelers and herd dogs can look like chaos engines, but in their brains, movement needs organizing. They’re not always being bad. Sometimes they’re just applying for a job nobody posted.

Cletus didn’t care about Rosco’s resume. He saw suspicious circling, a possible nip, and his beloved Dixie Belle standing there. That was enough.

This was not just farm drama. This was a boundary meeting with hooves, paws, and one unforgettable slap.

Herding dogs and guardian dogs can live around the same animals, but they’re not built for the same job. The AKC‘s herding breed guide explains that herding breeds have an instinct to control the movement of other animals, which helps explain why Rosco was circling instead of relaxing.

• Know the job behind the behavior. Herding dogs may circle, stare, chase, or nip, while guardian dogs may block, watch, or interrupt.
• Supervise mixed roles. If one dog is moving animals and another is protecting them, keep an eye on tension before it escalates.
• Reward calm around livestock. Practice recalls, “leave it,” and quiet observation so dogs can think before instincts take over.

Cletus may have delivered the smack, but in his mind, he was just updating farm policy.

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Related: Livestock Guardian Dog Jumps for Joy Around His Horses and It’s Too Precious