Hysterics As Golden Retriever Wakes From Nap Really Confused: ‘Am I Dog?’

A sign of a good nap is waking up with no recollection of the day, time, or even year. This is hilariously demonstrated by Levi, a golden retriever who doesn’t seem to know where or who he is.

In a viral video shared on his TikTok account, @luvman23, the dog stands still and occasionally grunts. The text over the video, which has amassed 3.5 million views, reads: “There is no one more confused than a golden retriever who just woke up from a nap.”

Viewers flocked to the comments to share what they imagined the dog might be thinking.

“Lemme get this right, I’m still a dog,” wrote one user, earning 26,300 likes. Another joked, “Am I a dog? Is you hooman?”

“They manually reset after a good nap. That’s just startup noises,” laughed a third.

“I identify as a golden retriever that just woke up from a nap,” quipped another, resonating with many.

Can Dogs Feel Confused?

Anyone who has ever interacted with a dog knows they can express a range of emotions, such as happiness, sadness, anger, and surprise. However, when it comes to confusion, the answer is less straightforward.

According to Purina’s website, dogs cannot feel confusion in the way humans do. It states: “Many scholars argue that confusion is not an emotion but a mix of fear and anger. Canine experts agree that dogs lack the capacity to experience such complex emotions.”

Many dog owners might disagree. The American Kennel Club (AKC) highlights behaviors that can leave dogs seemingly perplexed, suggesting that dogs may experience something akin to confusion in certain situations.

1. Mixed Messages: Dogs don’t understand synonyms or interchangeable cues. Use consistent, unique words for commands and avoid reusing cues for multiple behaviors. Ensure everyone in the household communicates consistently.
2. Inconsistent Rules: Dogs thrive on routine. Allowing certain behaviors only sometimes (e.g., jumping up) creates confusion. Set clear, consistent boundaries everyone follows.
3. Mishandled Names: A dog’s name signals attention. Overusing it, using it for scolding, or choosing a name similar to commands (e.g., “Sid” vs. “sit”) can confuse your dog. Make their name a positive cue.
4. Yelling and Punishment: Dogs don’t understand human language. Yelling creates fear and anxiety without teaching them anything. Redirect undesirable behaviors and reward positive alternatives.
5. Late Reactions: Dogs live in the moment. Punishing them after the fact (e.g., for past accidents) is pointless and confusing. Instead, focus on timely redirection and prevention.
6. Unpleasant Consequences: Negative outcomes (e.g., baths after “come”) deter cooperation. Ensure commands are paired with rewards or positive experiences to encourage obedience.

Newsweek reached out to @luvman23 for comment via email. We could not verify the details of the case.

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