Golden Retriever Practically Tries To Jump Into The TV When Animals Are On The Screen
Many of the same sights, sounds, and smells that get our attention as humans intrigue our dogs, too. The wafting aroma of meat cooking in the kitchen, the sound of a whining dog outside, and the sight of a wild animal. Even on a television screen, animals can quickly captivate a dog's interest — dogs like Odie, a golden retriever who lives in Belgium. His owner shared on TikTok the moment when the dog noticed some of his relatives on the screen during what appears to be a documentary or nature program.
@odie_thegoldie Everytime he sees animals on TV he wants to play along 😅 #odie #odiethegoldie #goldenretriever #puppy
In the clip from August 2025, Odie is seen staring at the television mounted to the wall, his tail wagging with excitement and curiosity. He paws at the table below it in an attempt to get closer to the action. Moments later, he's seen with both paws on the table and his snout only a couple of inches from the screen. He sniffs and pulls his face away, probably wondering why the jackals have such a faint chemical smell. "Every time he sees animals on TV, he wants to play along," the caption reads.
This isn't the first time Odie has made his fans smile on social media. In September 2025, his human caught the puppy patiently waiting to show off his new toy to his neighbors. It goes without saying that Odie brings joy not just to his owners, but to his 8,500+ TikTok followers by simply living his life.
Benefits of TVs for dogs, and what they love to watch
What do dogs see when they watch TV? As Odie proved, these animals can not only recognize images on a television screen; they can enjoy them, too. Plus, television can actually help mentally stimulate dogs while reducing separation anxiety and stress. It can also create the illusion that a human is home with it — especially if you regularly have the television on while you're home.
Many owners turn the TV on specifically for their dog, either when they're busy cleaning around the house or when their four-legged friend is home alone. Even some boarding facilities have televisions in their suites for their canine guests. The question is: what do dogs like to watch? A 2025 Scientific Reports study of 453 dogs found that they're most interested in other animals on screen, especially other dogs. They also like watching moving objects, like balls or running animals, suggesting that motion captures their attention more than static scenes.
Nowadays, you can find many options for channels and programs for your pet to enjoy, including Animal Planet, National Geographic, and DOGTV. If you want to put a movie on, consider one of the many where dogs are the main characters. "Homeward Bound: The Incredible Journey," "Eight Below," or any of the Benji or Lassie films are all great choices. Your pup may or may not show the excitement level of Odie, but hopefully, they'll still enjoy it from the floor or sofa. Interested in more golden retriever stories? Check out this golden retriever puppy who lives on a cruise ship and has a very important job.