Golden Retriever Enjoys 'Stick Heaven' After Storm Comes Through and Blesses Yard

There's an unwritten rule that when a dog finds a stick, they must have it. However big or small, that stick will be the greatest thing a pup could have. Just ask Duke, the Golden Retriever, who got to reap the benefits of a passing storm when it left him with so many amazing sticks to choose from.

In the TikTok clip shared by Duke the Golden Boy ( @thegoldenpupduke ), the excited pup can hardly contain himself while sifting through the scattered tree gifts. Watch him below!

Duke can be seen thrashing a huge, leafy stick around as he runs through the yard. He couldn't be happier tossing his new toy around and showing the world how grateful he is for the storm's presents.

"A stick goldmine," the caption reads, and that's an understatement. Duke's got it made with all his new choices, and his devoted followers are just as excited for him.

"Omg, stick heaven for pups!!" one person stated. "I want to be as happy as that pupper with all the sticks!" another said. "Such joy after a big windstorm! It's the Golden Lining, a Golden Retriever can make anything special!" another added.

It's true. Goldens like Duke are so joyous in life's smallest moments, we could all learn and live by their lessons.

Related: Golden Retriever Puppy's First Airplane Trip Is Full of Fun and Cuddles

Why Do Dogs Love Playing with Sticks?

Dogs, especially those in the Retriever family, have a soft spot for sticks and the bigger, the better! Animal trainer Brandon McMillan explains there are a few reasons dogs flock to sticks . They might enjoy finding sticks because it's in their genes. The instinct to hunt and gather is part of their history so by retrieving a nice stick, they're innately fulfilling that need.

Sticks are exciting to dogs because they have different smells and sensations, which they use to figure out the world around them. That's why they might prefer one stick over another! And when an interesting stick comes around, dogs may choose it because it's similar to a bone and they enjoy the act of carrying it around, showboating that they discovered the world's greatest treasure!

Brandon added that as long as you're monitoring your stick-carrying dog and they're not eating them, all is good. Besides, if it only takes a basic stick to make your dog happy, it's a small price to pay for their joy.