Chihuahua's Tearful Reaction To Owner Packing For Vacation Has Everyone Sobbing
Dogs often seem to know when something is changing at home. Suitcases pulled from closets can be enough to send them pacing or hovering close by, as if bracing for separation. Small breeds like Chihuahuas, that form close bonds with their families, are especially quick to pick up on those cues. Their reactions can look almost human, with wide eyes and trembling bodies that leave little doubt about how much they want to stay close.
@bruiserandellewoods She's sitting on my bag because she knows I'm leaving. Crying real tears!đ #chihuahua #separationanxiety
That instinct is what turned Blondie, a 3-year-old Chihuahua, into a viral star. In a TikTok clip, she climbs onto her owner's packed suitcase and holds her place, eyes shimmering as if pleading not to be left behind. The caption jokes that she's "crying real tears," but viewers couldn't shake the image of such raw attachment.
A 2022 study in Current Biology showed that tear production can rise during emotional moments, especially when dogs are reunited with their owners, and scientists link this response to oxytocin, the hormone tied to bonding. That means the question of whether dogs cry real tears goes beyond a playful TikTok caption and is something supported by science. Blondie's viral protest seemed to reiterate those findings by showcasing this unusual phenomenon.
Helping your dog cope with goodbyes
When suitcases come out, many owners are left wondering how their dogs will handle the days apart. There are different options, and the best choice depends on a pup's personality, health, and how long the trip will last. For some dogs, staying home with a sitter feels more reassuring. A familiar environment and routine can keep stress low, especially for pets who thrive on one-on-one attention. Boarding facilities are another route, giving social dogs the chance to play and stay busy under supervision.
Little details also come into play when helping a dog adjust. A favorite blanket or toy can offer comfort while you're away, and practicing shorter separations before a big trip can make longer absences easier. For those who struggle more deeply, what helps a dog with separation anxiety often comes down to shaping their environment. Some owners create a quiet corner with familiar scents, or leave on soft music or white noise, and a few provide safe chews to keep their dog occupied. These small adjustments don't erase the sadness of a goodbye, but they can give a dog something to hold onto until you walk back through the door. Then again, your dog may just be ready to travel anywhere with you, regardless.