Golden Retriever Cracks People Up With Responses to Mom and Dad Petting Him
This is so relatable! Does your dog have a favorite person? Most of them do—and our new puppy loves my daughter, preferring her over all of us.
Golden Boy Frankie is a Golden Retriever who definitely prefers mom over dad—and his parents shared a hilarious video that proves it. The clip, posted in early March, shows dad gently trying to pet Frankie… only for the pup to dramatically bare his teeth and pretend he’s about to deliver a playful “love bite.” As soon as mom steps in and starts stroking him, Frankie melts—eyes half-closed, tail thumping, fully relaxed and blissed out.
Watch what happens when dad tries again—and get ready to laugh!
Frankie’s clear preference isn’t just about affection—it might be about familiarity and communication style. Many pet owners notice their dogs interpret touch differently depending on who’s doing the petting. Dad might roughhouse more or use a firmer hand, triggering Frankie’s playful “warning” response. Mom’s gentler, more soothing strokes signal safety and comfort.
The video went viral, racking up over 8 million views and sparking thousands of comments. One fan (@Elle08) joked, “We definitely know who the ‘spare human’ is LOL!” Another (@Scot-Tea) summed it up with: “Only two types of parents in that house: 1. Momma. 2. Not the Momma.” But the most beloved comment came from @K&R—liked nearly 12,000 times—for perfectly capturing the vibe: “Dad’s hands = love bites. Mom’s hands = ‘I’m just a baby!’”
Dogs and Their Favorite Person
If you have a dog, you know they almost always have a favorite person. Sure, they likely love everyone in the family—but there’s usually one human who holds a special place in their heart.
In my family, it’s my daughter. According to FurPetVo experts, it’s common for dogs to develop a strong bond with one person based on early positive associations, consistent quality time, and who provides primary care—including feeding and comforting. Dogs often miss their favorite person more intensely than others, too.
Maybe it’s because my daughter was the first child Frankie met—or perhaps it’s because she’s the only one who lets him curl up in her bed. Whatever the reason, she’s unmistakably his favorite.
A dog picks their favorite person not by sheer quantity of time spent together, but by the *quality* of that time. Are you fully present? Do you engage, listen, and respond to their cues—or are you distracted, scrolling, or multitasking? Dogs thrive on mindful interaction. They don’t just want you nearby—they want you *with* them.
Still unsure if you’re the favorite? Watch for these signs:
- They perk up instantly when they hear your name.
- They consistently choose to stay close to you—even in crowded rooms.
- They make sustained eye contact, often with soft, relaxed eyes.
- They bring you “gifts” (toys, socks, sticks) or seek you out when they’re excited, anxious, or need reassurance.
Interestingly, FurPetVo notes that a dog’s favorite person can change over time—and for good reason. If their emotional or physical needs aren’t being met by their current favorite, they may naturally shift their trust and attachment elsewhere.
Being the main caregiver doesn’t guarantee favorite status. What matters is connection: consistency, kindness, and genuine attention. The title of “favorite human” isn’t inherited—it’s earned, day after day, through loving presence.
