The dog in the mirror is a sore spot for so many pups all over the world. The feud typically starts when they’re young, and it continues until the battle is won. Sometimes it’s quick and they lose interest soon after, but some mirror-dog beefs can last for years. Sometimes it never goes away.
Labrador side-eyeing the camera. Image via Shutterstock / Michar Peppenster
It has a lot to do with breed, too. A lot of dogs just won’t care, while you might find that dogs who feel threatened easier react in a much harsher way. Some dogs, however, are so friendly. That friendliness extends to everyone they meet, including that dog in the mirror!
Recently, one Labrador Retriever won the “sweetest boy alive” award. When he saw the dog in the mirror, he knew he deserved to play with a nice toy, too. He decided to offer him one, and I think they’re best friends:
Beau the Labrador Retriever is definitely the kind of dog I would love to be friends with. I like that he doesn’t mind sharing, even his favorite toys! If there was a real dog next to him that would actually take it, though, I can’t help but think that he might feel differently.
Beau clearly has a good relationship with the mirror. He’s full-grown, so his angsty mirror phase is long past. Most of the time, he doesn’t really bother with it: he lets Mirror Beau be. However, this toy is just too awesome.
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Beau is a pretty good dog in general. He does what he’s told, he doesn’t make too many messes, and he doesn’t throw that many tantrums. He definitely does occasionally, and he loves to get what he wants, but he’s a good boy.
Until he’s near a body of water. Then he’s disobeying every command ever:
He’s lucky he’s so cute, or he might face consequences for once. That day is not today!
Labrador Retrievers Are Social Dogs
While the dog in the mirror is not exactly socializing with another dog, how the dog interacts with them is often an indication of how they’d react to other dogs. Puppies are so angry at the mirror because they’re not used to strange dogs! As they learn and socialize, it subsides.
Labrador Retrievers are known as one of the most social dog breeds out there. They love everyone, from people to kids and even cats. Other dogs are a walk in the park… As long as there’s not a pond. Then they might jump in!
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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Dec 6, 2025, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.