It’s officially sweater weather. For two San Diego–based Golden Retriever buddies named Link and Otto, sweater weather is the most terrifying season of the year. A hilarious social media video captures these two scaredy cats, er, dogs, playing watchdog when they come across a sweater hanging from a pole. The pups’ walk takes a scary turn, at least for them, making for a laugh-out-loud moment worth watching.
Captioned, “Everyone stay safe out there…it’s sweater weather,” the video shows their mom taking the two pups on a walk when they encounter a dropped sweater hanging from a pole along the path. The dogs immediately jump into watchdog mode and attempt to bark down the imposing sweater.
The video has gone viral, quickly turning the charming duo into social media stars. Commenters were completely charmed by the terrified canines, and a sarcastic comment section filled with quips soon followed.
“How did they remain so brave?” joked one fan. Another added, “They saved your life actually.”
“I’m glad they didn’t overreact,” quipped another.
“In their defense,” one commenter noted, “it does look highly suspicious.”
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Why Golden Retrievers Can Be Afraid of Random Objects
https://www.youtube.com/shorts/Z4u1kb7G2Ac
Before these precious pups earn a reputation for being overly dramatic, though maybe just a little, it’s worth noting that Golden Retrievers as a breed can scare easily. Unfamiliar objects in particular, like a random sweater hanging from a pole along a walking path, can send a Golden into a startled tailspin.
Early socialization, exposure, and positive reinforcement can help a fearful Golden work through anxiety and build confidence. Unless these two had an unpleasant run-in with a sweater in their past, chances are the unfamiliar object simply seemed imposing, and their protective instincts kicked in, keeping their humans safe from the sweater.
This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Jan 8, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.