The average mental picture of a dog on a beach likely involves running, or perhaps digging—but not so for one pup.
A viral TikTok video featuring a golden retriever's human-like preference for a beach chair over digging in the sand has sent the internet into hysterics. Since the video was posted, it has received over 230,000 views and over 43,000 likes.
"Other dogs at the beach vs my dog," the owner, @sweetlifeofshiloandluna, captioned the video. "No chair is safe around here."
The video opens with footage of a black dog digging in the sand as expected—but the scene then cuts to the star of the show: the creator's golden retriever, sitting upright in a beach chair, looking every bit like a human sunbather enjoying a vacation.
TikTok users were quick to react, sharing their amusement and relatable experiences with their own golden retrievers.
"My late golden always chose a chair or bench when available anywhere we went!" one person wrote, while another viewer speculated on the dog's inner thoughts: "He [is] looking like he dreading going back to work on Monday and is enjoying everything he can right now."
The dog's dignified posture in the chair even led some to dub him "the lifeguard."
Why Do Some Dogs Sit in Chairs?
This behavior, while amusing, isn't entirely uncommon for dogs.
There is little to no scientific evidence to explain why dogs like sitting in chairs, according to a blog post by Wag!, a dog walking and pet sitting platform. Observations from experts and dog lovers, however, are in large supply. The article noted that dogs might seek out chairs for warmth or to be closer to their owner's scent, especially if they hop into a chair after a person gets up.
Other reasons for a dog's chair preference, as outlined by Wag!, include seeking a better view, particularly of the outdoors. A chair "puts him at a level where he can see what is happening on the counter," or provides a nice view of the outdoors. This can stem from boredom or a desire for stimulation, or even a territorial instinct to protect the dog's territory against intruders.
For many owners, allowing their dog to sit on furniture "meant for humans" is a personal choice, often seen as endearing. As the Wag! post states, "Most people don't mind sharing furniture with their dogs and will even pull up a chair for Spot to eat together with the family." However, if a dog's chair-sitting behavior becomes an inconvenience, such as excessive shedding or, in rare cases, aggressive behavior, owners might choose to discourage it.
Wag! advised that using reward-based dog training and positive reinforcement can be effective to keep dogs off chairs, if the owner so desires.
Newsweek reached out to @sweetlifeofshiloandluna for comment via TikTok.