Last Updated on June 16, 2024 by Fumipets
Hysterics as Dog Demands Perfectly Folded Blanket Before Sitting
Viral Sensation: Oreo the Labrador
A video of a dog named Oreo, known for her particular preference for a neatly folded blanket, has taken TikTok by storm. Shared by the account @oreothedogbiscuit, the clip has amassed over 1.1 million views since its posting on June 10. Oreo, a 2-year-old Labrador, has captured hearts with her insistence on having her bed made just right.
Oreo’s Unique Bedtime Routine
Oreo’s owner, Ashleigh McIntyre, a 35-year-old from Newcastle, New South Wales, shared the story behind Oreo’s blanket demands. About a year ago, McIntyre got Oreo a blanket and started folding it neatly in half over her bed. After a few months, it became clear that Oreo preferred the blanket to be folded in a specific way every night.
“When I say ‘OCD,’ I’m obviously joking and I wouldn’t want anyone to think I’m making light of a serious disorder. She does have very clear wants and lets us know about them,” McIntyre explained.
The Viral TikTok Clip
In the viral video, McIntyre instructs Oreo to go to her bed. Oreo approaches the bed but stops, looking away from the camera and seemingly at her “dad” for assistance. The caption reads, “Making my OCD dog’s bed wrong to see what happens.” Oreo places one paw on the bed, retreats, and continues to stare at it, clearly displeased with the state of her blanket.
Can Dogs Have OCD?
Understanding Canine Compulsive Behaviors
Veterinarian Lisa Radosta notes in a PetMD article that while dogs don’t experience obsessive thoughts like humans, they can exhibit compulsive behaviors. These behaviors are often responses to stress, conflict, or frustration and can include actions such as spinning, tail chasing, fly biting, light chasing, barking, chewing, staring into space, and sucking on a toy or part of their body.
“Compulsive disorders (obsessive compulsive disorder, OCD) occur in dogs, although not with great frequency,” Radosta explains. These behaviors are exaggerations of normal actions, repeated out of context and in abnormal situations.
When to Seek Veterinary Advice
Radosta advises that what might appear as compulsive behavior could sometimes be attention-seeking. For example, if an owner reacts to a behavior by saying “no,” the dog may see this as attention, which can perpetuate the behavior. If you suspect your dog has a compulsive disorder, it’s important to consult a veterinarian for proper diagnosis and advice.
Oreo’s Communicative Nature
Oreo’s Bedtime Preferences
McIntyre shared that Oreo’s blanket routine is most prominent at bedtime. During the day, Oreo doesn’t seem to mind how the blanket is arranged, but come bedtime, it must be perfectly folded. This preference became evident when a puppy stayed with them, and the blanket was put away. As soon as the puppy left, Oreo nose-punched her bare bed, signaling her desire for the blanket.
“In winter, I fold half the blanket on the bed and wrap the other half over Oreo to keep her warm. This is why I fold the blankie wrong intentionally, so it takes a bit of adjusting for her to accept that I’m trying to help,” McIntyre noted.
Oreo’s Body Language and Communication
Oreo is a highly communicative dog, using body language to express her needs and wants. She will “nose-punch the window in the car” if she wants it open and “stare intently” at 6 PM when it’s dinner time. On walks, she will touch McIntyre’s leg with her nose if she feels it’s time for a treat.
“She’s obviously trained us very well,” McIntyre added. “We’re working on teaching her how to use buttons to speak. So far, she knows ‘play’ and ‘outside,’ but we have a long way to go.”
TikTok Reactions: Oreo’s Blanket Demands
In the latest viral clip, McIntyre asks Oreo if she wants her bed fixed. As McIntyre adjusts the blanket, Oreo finally settles onto the bed, lying with her back to the camera. A note across the clip humorously reads, “Can’t even look at you.”
Amused TikTok Users
The video has garnered a variety of amusing responses from TikTok users:
- @bustkygidgey: “Awwww so spoiled & cozy…don’t get it wrong again!!”
- @MadeByTeema: “When she looks to dad, she’s like ‘this woman again.'”
- @Duck: “She gave you the cold shoulder treatment!”
- @Don: “Training a hooman is a very important part of a pup’s life.”
Conclusion
Oreo’s story highlights the unique personalities and preferences that pets can have. Her particularity about her blanket not only entertains but also showcases the deep bond and communication between pets and their owners. As Oreo continues to charm viewers with her antics, she also reminds us of the joy and companionship that pets bring into our lives.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Why does Oreo prefer her blanket folded a certain way?
Oreo has developed a preference for her blanket to be folded neatly in half, likely due to habit and comfort. Over time, she has associated this specific arrangement with her bedtime routine.
2. Can dogs really have OCD?
While dogs do not experience OCD as humans do, they can exhibit compulsive behaviors as a response to stress or frustration. These behaviors are known as compulsive disorders in dogs.
3. How can I tell if my dog has a compulsive disorder?
Compulsive behaviors in dogs include spinning, tail chasing, fly biting, and light chasing. If your dog displays these behaviors excessively and out of context, consult a veterinarian for advice.
4. How did Oreo’s blanket routine start?
Oreo’s owner began folding the blanket over her bed about a year ago. Over time, Oreo started to prefer the blanket to be folded a certain way at bedtime, signaling her preference to her owner.
5. How can I manage my dog’s compulsive behaviors?
Managing a dog’s compulsive behaviors involves identifying the stressors and reducing them. Consult a veterinarian for guidance on how to address and manage these behaviors effectively.
For more information, you can read the original Newsweek article.
