I will not lie. This video choked me up within 0.2 seconds. The sweet Golden Retriever‘s face paired with the words flashing across the screen: “Husband: you need to be ready for this to be her last summer…” I almost insta-clicked the red X because I was just so *not in the mood* for any more sadness, but something compelled me to keep watching, and I’m so grateful I did.
The video goes on to explain how the husband and wife have a difference in perspective. The husband sees the Goldens’ life gradually coming to an end, the wife sees the pup just slowing down. The wife thinks a new puppy would help, the husband thinks she’s too old now.
You can probably guess how this unfolds. Enter ‘Beau’ the new puppy, and to say that ‘Ally’ is brought back to life would be an understatement of epic proportions.
This post really got to people, with so many viewers relating and having similar experiences. Many told stories of doing the exact same thing with their own dogs, and having wonderful outcomes. “A Golden puppy helped my senior Rottweiler feel young again. She helped guide him when he got lost and confused. I am so thankful she helped him pass gracefully and happy.”
Another commenter said, “We got our elderly English Bulldog a little Frenchie brother, and she adores him. It brought her spark back as well! Here’s to our old ladies just needing a younger bestie to show them how to have fun again.”
Why New Pups Can Brighten a Senior Dog’s Final Years
Image via Shutterstock/The Dog Photographer
As with so many things, a lot of this depends on your dog’s individual personality. If they have enjoyed another dog’s company in the past and adapted well to change, and are not suffering from any debilitating illness or stress, a puppy can revitalize a dog both mentally and physically.
They can provide companionship and help your senior dog live longer, while your senior dog patiently trains them, and teaches them manners and how to “dog” correctly. You’ll see a boost in mood and energy in your senior dog if it’s an appropriate match.
Related: Senior Golden Retriever Totally Blossoms When Mom Brings Home a New Puppy
In this case, Ally is out chasing a puppy half her size, ears up and tail wagging, without the weight of those years as we saw so present in the beginning of the video. She didn’t just perk up. She totally changed her mind about it being her time to leave.
For Thanksgiving week, watching this felt like a blessing right when everybody really needs it the most.
This story was originally published by PetHelpful on Nov 26, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.