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German Shepherd Bailey Can't Wait For Her Own Family To Love

Breed: German shepherd

Age: 8-9 months

Sex: Spayed

Size: 60 pounds

Bailey's story: Bailey is an amazing girl. She's incredibly friendly with dogs of all sizes and kids of all ages. Well-behaved, potty trained and crate trained, Bailey knows basic cues; has a medium energy level; is extremely sweet, loving, kind and gentle; and wants nothing more than to please her family – once she finds one of her own. She's current on vaccinations and microchipped. SAFE Rescue Team will pay her chip registration fee for life.

Suggested adoption cost: $500

Adoption procedure: Fill out SAFE Rescue Team's adoption application here.

Hysterics As German Shepherd Meets New Kitten But It Doesn't Go As Planned

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.

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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.

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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.

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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. 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

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 TikTok user.

Another comment reads: "Well, in her defence, it IS an orange tabby."

Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.Com with some details about your best friend, and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.

Why Socialization Is Key For Your German Shepherd Puppy

Thunder Bay – LIVING – A family pet is often considered an important part of your children's growing up. Think back to the memories you may have for your family pet when you were growing up.

Dogs are a popular pet for many people, and German Shepherds here in Thunder Bay are one of the most popular breeds.

German Shepherds are renowned for their intelligence, loyalty, and protective instincts. However, these traits can sometimes manifest as fear or aggression if a dog isn't properly socialized. That is why socializing your German Shepard is so important.

Early and consistent socialization is crucial for raising a well-adjusted and happy German Shepherd.

Watching your dog and other dogs play, there might be times when to you it might seem they are playing or wrestling and getting a little rough. Reality is

Benefits of a Well-Socialized German Shepherd:

Reduced anxiety and fear: Exposure to various people, environments, and situations helps your GSD develop confidence and adapt to new experiences without feeling threatened.

Improved behavior: Socialized dogs are less likely to exhibit unwanted behaviors like excessive barking, jumping, or nipping.

Safer interactions: A well-socialized GSD is more likely to interact appropriately with other dogs and people, reducing the risk of aggression or fear-based reactions.

Enhanced quality of life: A confident and well-adjusted dog enjoys a richer life, participating in more activities and forming stronger bonds with their family.

Socialization Tips:

Start early: Begin socializing your puppy as soon as you bring them home (after they've received their initial vaccinations).

Expose them to variety: Introduce your GSD to different people (ages, sizes, appearances), places (parks, stores, busy streets), and situations (car rides, vet visits, grooming).

Make it positive: Use positive reinforcement with treats and praise to create positive associations with new experiences.

Supervise interactions: Always monitor your dog's interactions with others, especially during puppyhood.

Enroll in puppy classes: These classes provide a safe and controlled environment for your puppy to learn social skills and basic obedience.

Off-Leash Dog Parks: Tips and Etiquette:

Ensure your dog is ready: Your GSD should have basic obedience training and good recall before visiting an off-leash park.

Observe first: Before entering, watch the dogs already playing to assess their play styles and energy levels.

Supervise closely: Keep a close eye on your dog's interactions and body language. Be prepared to intervene if necessary.

Know when to leave: If your dog seems overwhelmed, anxious, or overly aroused, it's time to leave the park.

Clean up after your dog: Always bring poop bags and dispose of waste properly.

Dog Park Essentials:

Leash: Even in an off-leash park, it's important to have a leash for entering and exiting.

Water and bowl: Keep your dog hydrated, especially during warm weather.

Poop bags: Be a responsible pet owner and clean up after your dog.

Treats: Use treats for positive reinforcement and recall.

First-aid kit: Be prepared for minor injuries.

Remember, you know your dog, having the basic respect for your dog's energy level, his ability to listen to you, all apply at the dog park.

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