Last Updated on September 2, 2024 by Fumipets
Owner Not Impressed Over What Dog Is Barking About: Nico the Tomato-Loving Beagle’s Hilarious Protest Goes Viral
Dogs are known for their quirky behaviors, but Nico, a beagle mix, recently captured the internet’s attention with his unique love for tomatoes. When his owner, Erik Hane, decided to change the layout of his garden, Nico made sure his disapproval was heard — loud and clear. Let’s dive into this amusing story of a dog who just wanted his tomatoes back, and how it all unfolded online.
Nico’s Secret Food Stash Gets Moved
In the quiet corner of Erik Hane’s garden, Nico found paradise — specifically, a tomato plant that he frequented for a quick, juicy snack. This was not just any plant; it was Nico’s favorite, at ground level, where ripe tomatoes awaited him daily. Every time Nico was outside, he would return to the plant, stealing a few tomatoes to munch on.
Why the Tomato Plant Had to Be Moved
Hane, noticing Nico’s love for the tomatoes, decided to make a change. Concerned about Nico’s constant snacking and aware that dogs should only eat tomatoes in moderation, he decided to move the plant to a raised flower bed. This change was aimed at preventing Nico from consuming too many tomatoes and potentially the plant itself, which could be harmful to dogs.
Fun Fact: While ripe tomatoes are safe for dogs in small amounts, the green parts of the plant, including the stems and leaves, contain solanine, which is toxic to dogs. The American Kennel Club recommends feeding tomatoes to dogs in moderation.
Nico’s Outrage Over the Garden Transformation
Nico, however, was not pleased with this sudden disruption to his routine. According to Hane, Nico doesn’t bark much, but when he does, it means something is bothering him. And this time, it was clear what the issue was — his beloved tomato plant was out of reach.
The Viral Moment: Nico’s Reaction to the New Garden Layout
Hane shared Nico’s reaction in an August 22 tweet on X, formerly known as Twitter. The tweet quickly gained traction, reading: “I hear the dog barking at the top of his lungs, and I come out to see what it is. He wants me to put the tomato plant back at a height where he can eat it some more. I hate him so much.”
Accompanied by a photo, the post showed a disgruntled Nico staring at the newly relocated tomato plant with a look of pure frustration. His expressive eyes seemed to say it all — he knew exactly who had moved his food source and was not happy about it.
Nico’s Protest Gains Popularity Online
Nico’s discontent quickly went viral, amassing over 1 million views and 58,000 likes on X. Comments flooded in, with many sympathizing with Nico and expressing their amusement at the situation.
Some users responded to Hane’s tweet with playful comments like, “Order this very good baby a bushel of the finest sun-ripened tomatoes immediately,” while others demanded “justice for Nico,” claiming he had “never done a thing wrong in his life.” It was clear that Nico’s tomato saga had captured the hearts of many.
Public Reactions and Support for Nico
- Sympathy for Nico: Many people felt a strong sense of empathy for Nico, understanding his frustration over the loss of his favorite treat.
- Humorous Comments: The internet, known for its humor, responded with witty remarks. Some joked about the “feeling being mutual,” suggesting that just as much as Hane “hates” Nico for barking, Nico “hates” Hane for moving his tomatoes.
- Calls for Justice: Fans of Nico even jokingly demanded that Hane compensate his pet with a new batch of tomatoes.
The Aftermath: Nico’s Realization and Acceptance
After a few days of consistent barking and glaring, Nico eventually realized that his beloved tomato plant wasn’t coming back down to ground level. According to Hane, “He had given up on the dream a little bit.” Though Nico might have resigned himself to the new garden layout, his hilarious protest lives on through the viral tweet.
A Dog’s Determination: What Makes This Story So Relatable?
Nico’s persistence and his obvious emotional expression resonate with many pet owners who see their own pets in Nico’s actions. It’s a reminder of the quirky, lovable traits that make our pets so unique. Whether it’s a dog barking for a treat or a cat demanding attention, these small, everyday moments are what make our lives with pets so special.
Final Thoughts: Why This Story Struck a Chord Online
Nico’s story isn’t just about a dog barking over a plant. It’s about the bond between pets and their owners, the way animals communicate their feelings, and the humorous situations that arise from our everyday lives with pets. Nico’s insistence and determination have brought joy and laughter to many, proving once again why dogs are indeed man’s best friend.
FAQs About Nico and Tomato-Loving Dogs
1. Can dogs eat tomatoes safely?
Yes, dogs can eat ripe tomatoes in moderation, but they should avoid the green parts of the plant, such as leaves and stems, which contain solanine, a substance that is toxic to dogs.
2. What other fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs?
Many fruits and vegetables are safe for dogs, including apples (without seeds), carrots, blueberries, and cucumbers. Always consult with a veterinarian to ensure a specific food is safe for your pet.
3. Why did Nico bark at the tomato plant?
Nico barked because he was frustrated that his favorite tomato plant was moved out of his reach. He loved snacking on the ripe tomatoes, and the relocation disrupted his routine.
4. How can you safely train your dog to avoid certain plants?
Training techniques like positive reinforcement, consistent commands, and providing alternate treats can help discourage dogs from eating or playing with certain plants.
5. What made Nico’s story go viral?
Nico’s story went viral because of the humorous situation and his expressive reaction, which many pet owners found relatable. His owner’s witty tweet also captured the attention of many online users, leading to widespread engagement and shares.
References: Newsweek Article on Nico
