Labrador Retriever 'Learning How to Big Bro' with New Puppy Is Full of Cute Chaos

For the most part, all of the essentials of what it means to be a family dog all come very naturally to our pups. Unconditionally loving the animals and people around them, walking on four legs, and somehow, causing as much puppy chaos as possible.  Then, there are the skills like potty training (and not chewing on every household item they can get their hands on)that they will need a little help from us humans to master.

Dogs can teach other dogs how to do things, too, though... and while the big brother Labrador Retriever in this TikTok video may not be a natural at that, he and his new puppy are figuring it out together as they go in the most adorable way.

In this sweet video from @oakley.and.chipper, we see the big brother, a black Labrador Retriever , Oakley, trying to figure out exactly how to fit into his new role now that he has a little brother, a chocolate Lab puppy named Chipper... and all the adorable confusion that came with it.

At this particular moment, Oakley was learning how to share with his baby bro, though it was clear he wasn't a big fan at first! When Chipper tried to play with his bone, Oakley would take it back, and the cycle continued. Hey, Oakley, it's called taking turns!

Fortunately, Chipper seemed to take it all in stride, though there was a bit of grunting and huffing going on. And this story does have a happy ending, because in the comments, their mom confirmed that these boys do, in fact, share beautifully now that they've adjusted.

Good boys!

Do Dogs Understand the Concept of Sharing?

As Chewy points out, sharing is one of those skills that truly does need to be taught. Some dogs will be naturally more possessive and protective of their stuff than others are, especially when it comes to their food.

Like many other skills, it's going to take a lot of practice and positive reinforcement to nail this one. You can start by offering treats when one dog gets close to a toy that decidedly belongs to the other dog, and lots of praise in moments when they allow the other dog to inspect or play with a communal toy, too. Your dog will connect the act of sharing with a reward, and that will make everyone's lives much easier.

Chewy also recommends enlisting the help of a professional if you notice your dog exhibiting "guarding" behaviors, including growling and snapping, when the time comes to share.

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