Golden Retriever Smiles From Ear to Ear Out of Elation Over Dad Returning Home

I've said it a million times before, but we don't deserve dogs. They're loyal, compassionate, and make the best companions who love us unconditionally no matter how much money we make, things we have, or reasons we may not feel worthy. Wally the Golden Retriever is the definition of why dogs are so great, if only because of the way he greets his dad each day in the sweetest way.

If everyone had the love of a dog, the world would be a much better place. Watch Wally's sheer joy over dad's return and try not to melt!

Thanks to @wally.meets.world , I will only accept this kind of greeting forevermore. Goldens have a certain way about them that puts everyone in a good mood, but Wally's bio, "big Golden Retriever with big emotions," is spot on. He has a gentle way about him that exudes pure happiness.

This lovable pup can't help but smile when he finally gets to be with Dad, and it's putting some of his 156,000 followers in their feelings (for good reason).

"That’s his human. Pure love," one person noted.

"Peak Golden going for a toy to handle his emotions," another wrote.

"Gosh, I’d give anything to be greeted by my own Wally when I get home," another added.

The results are in and Wally wins for Best Smile of 2024, thanks to Dad for the inspiration!

Related: Golden Retriever Watching New Baby on the Monitor Is Pure Joy

Do Dogs Really Smile?

Dogs like Wally really do look like they're smiling when they're happy, but is that what they're actually doing? PetMD explains yes, dogs can smile —but it's not a "true grin" the way humans do.

Your pup's expression, including "wide-mouth panting, relaxing with their tongues out, and submissive grins," can mean they are actually happy. Many think it can stem from the way dogs have evolved to understand human behavior over time (like smiling), due to being domesticated.

For example, if you smile at your dog when it appears they're smiling, they may have learned this exchange is what's expected and in turn, they do it more. They love to make their people happy, so they learn how to trigger that reaction. Basically, they're smart, which we already know!

Wally's reaction to his dad coming home is that of pure excitement and contentment. It's raw and real and honest emotion. Science says Wally's just thrilled he made his dad smile, so he's smiling in return. So once again, we do not deserve dogs!