Sleepy Golden Retriever Refuses to Drop His Toy - Even Though He's Nodding Off to Sleep
Both my dogs love their plush toys. My Dachshund actually hides several of them from her Pug brother so she can snuggle with them when she naps. She's very strategic when it comes to stuffies.
Wally the Golden Retriever seems to have the same affection for his toys, to the point where he holds on to them while he naps.
@wally.meets.world He was so tired but he did not want to drop his new toy #goldenretriever#dogsoftiktok
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In the TikTok from @wally.meets.world, the gorgeous Golden was practically asleep yet still had his new toy in his mouth. It was like he considered the new plushie, which looked like a toy apple, as a part of himself. Maybe it provided him comfort, or he was making sure no one would steal it. Either way, Wally definitely felt a kinship with the squishy toy.
When his dad tried to pull the toy out of Wally's mouth as he dozed, the persistent pooch held on to the object and refused to let go. Finally, his dad gently removed the toy despite a sleepy whimper from Wally.
Followers were charmed by Wally's devotion to the stuffed apple, with some relating to that strong an attachment.
"Just when I thought that Wally couldn't be any cuter... I was wrong," one remarked.
"I admire that level of commitment, Wally," another raved.
"A warm milk bottle and a belly rub will do him in," a follower noted.
"Me with chocolate at 1 am," someone admitted.
Why Dogs Get Attached to Their Toys
Dogs can form bonds with certain toys, almost like humans do with a favorite sweater or coffee mug. These toys provide comfort and a sense of security for dogs. As the toy becomes more familiar and part of their day-to-day lives, a dog sees it as a stable part of their routine and something they can count on.
Related: Golden Retriever Banished to Bedroom Has Uncontrollable Need To ‘Supervise' Maintenance Man
These toys also provide mental stimulation for dogs and give them something to focus on. The tactile aspect of the object, whether it's soft and squishy or a hard plastic ball good for chewing, is also pleasing to your pooch.
Wally will probably keep his new toy close by from now on, even in his sleep.
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This story was originally published May 3, 2026 at 7:10 PM.