4 days ago
Hearts Melt as Rescue Golden Retriever Finally Sits Next to New Owner
Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources.
Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content.
Rescuing a dog doesn't always guarantee instant affection. While many adopted animals are relieved to be in a safer environment, building trust takes time—and, sometimes, even the smallest gestures can feel monumental.
That's what Reddit user u/MasterPh0 experienced after adopting a golden retriever named Teddy. In a post on May 1, the new dog owner uploaded a touching photo of Teddy tentatively sitting on the couch—just beside him. The caption said it had taken a full day for the shy dog to muster the courage.
"Found this [1]-year-old golden retriever up for adoption and knew this was the perfect opportunity to finally have a golden retriever," the user wrote. "I've owned chihuahuas my whole life, so this is my first big dog. His name is Teddy and I will honor the previous owners' wish in keeping the name."
Stock image: A golden retriever is seen resting indoors on a blanket.
Stock image: A golden retriever is seen resting indoors on a blanket.
Santiago Gmez Cuervo / 500px/500Px Unreleased Plus
Since being posted, the photo has quickly gained attention across the platform, racking up hundreds of comments.
The Reddit user said that Teddy had originally been brought into another home as a companion for a senior husky. However, after six months, the dynamic between the two dogs wasn't working out.
"I guess it just didn't work out in the end," the user wrote. "The husky was the family pet, so they decided to part ways with Teddy and let their husky live a comfortable life as a senior."
The American Kennel Club (AKC) says that it is completely normal for an adult dog to be less than enthusiastic about a new puppy. Not all older canines welcome the energy and attention of a younger companion—and that is fine.
An older dog may not appreciate being jumped on or treated like a chew toy, and some may choose to walk away, growl, or give a warning snap to set boundaries. While this behavior is typical and part of canine communication, any instance where an adult dog actually uses its teeth on a puppy crosses a line. In such cases, the AKC recommends seeking guidance from a veterinary behaviorist.
How To Settle in Your New Puppy or Dog
Newsweek reached out to Kennel Club-accredited dog trainer Joe Nutkins, who has provided three tips on how to help a pup settle into home:
"Create a space for puppy to go to for naps, quiet time especially if there are other dogs in the home or many family members. Puppy pens with a cozy bed, open crate with bedding, toys, puppy chews, snuggle mat with small treats in etc. become a puppy's safe space and helps them learn to rest when tired. This could also be a kids' tipi, space under the dining table etc." "Spend time on the floor with your new puppy; playing, handling, holding chews for them to use. This can be one-on-one time if there are multiple family members and helps build bonds and trust, as well as allowing us to interact more closely than when we are standing or leaning over." "Don't overwhelm! Although bringing new puppy home is exciting for here first few days are best kept for you and your pup. Keep visitors to a minimum, despite everyone wanting to visit; ideally, there should be none the first few days. Ensure you give pup some time to rest without you interacting with them. Consider stimulus like background noise, scent from air fresheners and perfumes, family members all calling the puppy at once etc. as this can be very overwhelming and confusing!"
Reddit Reacts
Almost 200 dog lovers have commented to share photos of their golden and share what it is like being an owner of one.
"So happy for you both! Excited for your first golden smile! You'll never regret it, even the hard days. Can't wait for the weird personality quirks and side eye of judgment. You'll never have a dull day! They're characters for sure! I love my judgmental polar bears," said one user.
Another posted: "He's gonna be a great boy! Just keep in mind that his whole world has been turned upside down. It's gonna take time for everyone (including you) to adjust and get used to routines. Be patient and loving and you're gonna have a best friend."
Newsweek reached out to u/MasterPh0 for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@ with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
