Dogs have an incredible way of surprising us with their love and loyalty, but sometimes, they take it to a whole new level. In some amazing cases, dogs have stepped in as parents to animals of completely different species—proving that love and care know no boundaries. Whether it’s raising a kitten or protecting an orphaned fawn, these stories show just how deeply dogs can connect with others, no matter how different they may be.
1. Dog Adopts Tiny Lamb
Source: The Dodo/Youtube
A dog named Max adopted a tiny lamb named Bo after her biological mother rejects her. From the moment Max heard Bo’s cries, she instinctively took on the role of a loving mother, bonding with the lamb as if she’d done it many times before. As Bo grew, their bond remained strong, with the lamb following Max around the property and even playing fetch alongside her. Despite Bo eventually rejoining the other sheep, she still runs to Max every day, showing the unbreakable connection they share. Their relationship is described as one of pure love and joy, with Max fulfilling her deep desire to be a mother and Bo thriving in their unique mother-daughter bond.
2. Dog Becomes Mom to a Family of Ducklings
Source: The Dodo/Youtube
A sweet dog became the unlikely “mom” to a group of ducklings when they were just one day old. Initially puzzled by the tiny creatures, the dog quickly embraced his role, allowing the ducklings to climb all over him and nest in the fluff of his tail. As the ducklings learned to swim, the dog acted as an island for them to rest on in the pool. They followed him everywhere, forming a unique and playful bond.
3. Pit Bull is Foster Mom to 50 Kittens
Source: The Dodo/Youtube
A pit bull named Ginger, who has been raising foster kittens for years, meets a kitten she simply can’t say goodbye to. Ginger, who was rescued from a euthanasia list in 2018 while pregnant, gave birth in her foster mom’s bathroom and instinctively knew how to care for babies. After raising her puppies, she channeled her motherly instincts into nurturing foster kittens, offering them comfort and safety. When a feral kitten named Harry arrived, Ginger immediately bonded with him, helping him turn a corner in his recovery. After fostering over 50 kittens, Ginger’s human finally found one she couldn’t let go of and the two are now inseparable.
4. Dog Rescues Magpie
Source: The Dodo/Youtube
A pittie named Peggy initially wanted nothing to do with a weak and exhausted magpie named Molly, who was found covered in grass. Peggy would avoid Molly at first, scurrying away from the little bird. However, over time, the two began to lie next to each other, and soon their bond blossomed into regular cuddles. As their connection grew stronger, Peggy’s maternal instincts kicked in, and she even began to produce milk for Molly, becoming her unlikely “mom.”
5. Dog Adopts a Whole Litter of Piglets
Source: The Dodo/Youtube
A loving dog adopts an entire litter of abandoned piglets, nurturing them as if they were her own. The video, shared by Emily Watson via the Dodo, shows the piglets happily nursing from their new mom, who provides them with the care and warmth they need to grow big and strong. Though the video doesn’t offer much context, it beautifully captures the tender bond between the dog and her adopted piglets
These stories of dogs acting as parents to other species remind us just how special and compassionate our furry friends can be. Their ability to care for animals so unlike themselves shows that love isn’t about differences—it’s about connection. Whether through instinct or pure affection, these dogs have given us beautiful examples of kindness.
We encourage everyone thinking of getting a pet to only adopt instead of shopping and use this amazing pet adoption search tool by WildWatchers to find shelter animals near you!
Read more resources about adopting animals on One Green Planet, including 7 Reasons to Adopt Your Next Furry Best Friend, 5 Reasons Why Everyone Should Adopt a Pet, and These Heartwarming Before and After Pictures of Adopted Rescue Animals Will Make Your Day! Read tips for pet adoptions and what to consider before adopting an animal.
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