Foster Dog's Sad Reaction When Not Getting Enough Attention Is Tear-Jearking
Fostering dogs keeps them out of overcrowded shelters, but it can take a while for a pup to feel secure in their cozy new digs. A foster dog named Orca went viral for her heartbreaking clinginess, with over 450,000 people reacting to a TikTok clip of her sad, furry face. According to the video, when Orca feels her humans aren't talking to her enough, she goes to her crate and curls up with her legs and tail tucked under her body.
@_jaelani_ like friend we're just doing homework we still love you, SHES AVAILABLE FOR ADOPTION #fyp#fosterdog#alabama#auburn#dogsoftiktok
Sympathetic viewers flooded the comments with advice to help Orca feel more comfortable, with suggestions ranging from decorating her crate with photos to hugging her more often. Some simply posted crying emojis. Luckily, getting so many eyes on Orca's little bout of doggy blues could lead her to the golden dream: a forever family. The video's caption explains that she's up for adoption, and many commenters expressed interest in adopting her or regretted that it wasn't possible.
A crate can give dogs a sense of security
Orca likely retreats to her crate because it's her safe spot. Humans often see confined spaces as constricting, but dogs tend to find comfort in them. They naturally seek out small, enclosed spaces to relax in. A crate can help a dog self-soothe, fall asleep, and escape overstimulation. Crates are especially helpful for rescue pups, as they give them a space they know is exclusively theirs.
If you want your furry friend to have a crate, start young. Crate training an eager puppy is much easier than trying to change a stubborn senior pooch's routine. Ideally, your dog will be crate-trained long before old age. However, older pooches also reap enormous benefits from having a crate, just like puppies. Nothing's better than a blanket-lined crate when the joints ache, or it's time for a trip to the vet.
However, you don't have to crate your dog, especially if they dislike it. There are actually a few dog breeds to avoid if easy crate training is the goal. Many herding dogs despise crates, and working dogs can be escape artists — but that doesn't mean every dog in the breed can't be trained. These pups can change their minds with extra coaxing. Try other comfort tools if the crate remains stressful, such as a cushy dog bed or lots of plush toys and treats every time they enter.