Dogs and kids don't always mix, no matter how much a dog acts like a kid themselves. Many dog parents will find that their pups will need some training before they interact regularly with children if they haven't had much experience being around the tiny humans before, and that's totally normal — it's unfamiliar territory for them. But other dogs are naturals; they see a baby or toddler and innately know that they should be gentle. It's kind of amazing to see that kind of bond play out.
Maybe that's why so many people are gushing over this completely adorable video on TikTok. This is a big dog and a little kid, but they couldn't be sweeter together if they tried. The love these two have for each other is so clear to see.
In this video shared by @becca_all_day over the weekend, her German Shepherd , Otto, is playing with her toddler, and while he's definitely a big dog (and much bigger than the kid), he's also as gentle as can be. It's easy to see why they are inseparable!
Otto's little brother is cracking up as he licks his face and plays with him, and even though the kiddo keeps playing with Otto's face and mouth, he never once even looks like he's thinking about chomping down.
The giggling and playing goes on for so long. It looks like Otto really loves his little human... and the feeling is most definitely mutual.
Commenters gushed over just how adorable this video is, and many added that their own German Shepherds are also excellent with kids.
One commenter wrote, "I'm always wary of big dogs with babies, but this completely made me smile. neither one of these guys are going over the edge at the other one. they know each other and know how to play."
Another commenter said, "This dog has impeccable bite inhibition."
What Is Bite Inhibition?
In case you don't know what bite inhibition is, that commenter is right — this dog is exceptionally skilled in it!
The Spruce Pets explains bite inhibition as a training method that will teach dogs how to bite without putting enough pressure on what they're biting to harm someone, so they are much less likely to hurt people (or other animals) with their bite. It can be helpful to teach puppies this skill, since they're always biting, and will aid in their socialization as they grow.
You can start by letting your puppy bite you, but if they bite too hard, say "ouch" and stop playing. They'll learn that if they want to keep playing, they'll have to bite lightly.
It may take different approaches and time to teach your dog this valuable skill, but it will be worth it in the end, since everyone will be safer for years to come!
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