3 days ago
Tears at Dog's Bedtime Routine from Puppy to Adult: 'Nothing Has Changed'
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A Staffordshire bull terrier's bedtime tradition has captured hearts online, with a viral video showing just how much (and how little) has changed since he was a tiny pup.
The dog's owner, who posts under the handle @rocco_the_blue_staffy, shared touching footage of their dog Rocco—a gray Staffordshire bull terrier—following the same nightly ritual from the age of 8 weeks to now, aged 2.
In the first clip, baby Rocco energetically leaps into his dad's arms after hearing the question: "Do you want to go to bed?" The video then cuts to present-day Rocco, now a fully grown and considerably larger dog, still happily being scooped up and carried to bed in the same loving fashion.
The video, which received 41,800 likes and 774,200 views on TikTok, features the text: "8 weeks to 2 years and still do the same night night." The caption reads: "Rocco as a baby to now nothing has changed."
Staffordshire bull terriers, according to the American Kennel Club, are known for their courage, intelligence, and affection. Often called "nanny dogs," they are particularly good with children and thrive in loving homes where they can form strong bonds with their humans.
Establishing a bedtime routine like Rocco's can be key to ensuring dogs feel safe and secure. As Pooch & Mutt explains, a consistent routine helps dogs wind down and associate certain cues, like a phrase or a specific time, with sleep. Bedtime rituals might include calm activities, a last toilet trip, and making sure their sleeping area is inviting and peaceful.
While it might seem unusual to carry a full-grown dog upstairs, it's perfectly manageable with the right technique. Dogs Trust advises placing one hand under the dog's chest and the other supporting the back legs to lift safely, avoiding strain on the animal's back and joints.
TikTokers couldn't get enough of Rocco's nightly cuddle.
A stock image showing a Staffordshire bull terrier asleep on a bed.
A stock image showing a Staffordshire bull terrier asleep on a bed.
CBCK-Christine/iStock / Getty Images Plus
"You sir are what every dog owner should be like. We only have them for such a brief amount of time, they deserve all the love you can give," one user commented.
"Staffies are my absolute favorite dogs, they're so loving," wrote Claire.
"I've spent the last 13 years sleeping on the corner of the bed while our staffy sprawls out all over the bed," joked Sam.
"I had to buy a super king bed to fit my two Staffies in our bed—they sleep horizontally," another added.
Newsweek reached out to @rocco_the_blue_staffy for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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