You might think it takes a lot to scare a big German shepherd, but apparently not, as a video has gone viral showing one dog’s petrified reaction to a tiny kitten.
The clip was shared on TikTok by user @kayla__d showing her “85lb German shepherd” cowering and nervously pawing at her owner when the “1lb kitten” approached her. Even when the dog’s owner stopped hugging her and pulled away, she still wasn’t ready and tried to move closer to him again.
The dog certainly didn’t look like she was ready to make friends with the tiny feline just yet. However, despite the large difference in size, the kitten didn’t seem fazed by the dog and just wandered around eagerly.
The video has left TikTok users in stitches since it was shared last week, gaining more than 17.8 million views and over 2.4 million likes at the time of writing. The caption alongside the clip jokes: “She’s actually terrified.”
Newsweek reached out to @kayla__d via TikTok for comment.
German shepherds are characterized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as being courageous, confident, and smart—but you wouldn’t think it based on this viral TikTok video. Standing up to 26 inches tall and weighing up to 90 pounds, they are known for being intelligent and powerful working dogs, who shine as steadfast guardians.
The breed is known for being very affectionate with their family and good with children, and there’s no doubt about their protective instincts. But the AKC highlights that they do also have a notable aloofness that doesn’t lend itself to forming instant friendships.
So perhaps the kitten just needs to give the dog some time to adapt and they’ll become friends eventually.
As with any dog, early socialization is vitally important for German shepherds as it helps them grow into adaptable and obedient adults. Puppy classes and reward-based training are excellent platforms to use, according to the AKC, but owners must remain consistent and positive throughout.
A stock image of a German shepherd and a small kitten. Internet users were left in hysterics by a large dog’s response to a tiny cat.
Akifyeva Svetlana/Getty Images
How Did Social Media React?
The hilarious clip has generated plenty of attention online, leading to more than 12,300 comments already. Many people lauded the big dog for being so dramatic, while others were desperate to find out how the pair are getting along now. The answer: not great.
In a follow-up video, @kayla__d showed the kitten trying to interact with the German shepherd only for her to quickly retreat. They certainly aren’t the best of friends quite yet.
Among the comments on the viral TikTok video, one person joked: “The Academy Award for best performance in a drama goes to the beautiful German Shepherd!”
Another person wrote: “People don’t realize that GS are really just big babies.”
“He knows his peaceful days are over,” added one TikToker.
Another comment reads: “Well, in her defence, it IS an orange tabby.”
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