If there’s anything dogs shouldn’t put in their mouths, rest assured, they’ll find it and stow it away inside their cheeks anytime the opportunity arises. The mouthfeel of some objects is enough to trigger their most primal instincts. And because they’re cute, funny little comedians, once they know they’re not supposed to do it, they’ll do it every chance they get.
Duke is one rock-loving Golden Retriever who thinks he’s pulled the wool over his mom’s eyes by hiding one in his mouth. He doesn’t realize Mom knows everything until she mentions the secret words to get him to drop it.
A happy Golden Retriever poses by a bush outside.Image via Unsplash
Without ever reading the headline, you’d probably guess this is about treats (because it’s always about treats)! Duke has learned how to game the system by rebelling against the “no rock” rule in hopes of scoring a tasty snack. I’d say mission accomplished here!
As the official “rock thief” of the dog world, Duke’s gotten really good at spotting the rocks that’ll fit perfectly inside his mouth without anyone noticing. I don’t know how long he can hide such a thing before he’s caught, but based on this clip, I’d bet this funny standoff could last for a while without the mention of Greenies.
“At this point, he thinks rocks are currency for Greenies,” one astute fan pointed out. “Duke has figured out how to get a Greenies treat 100% of the time,” another wrote. “Best Greenies treat commercial ever,” another praised.
Even the official account for @greeniesbrand responded, writing, “literally blushing,” so maybe there’s a commercial in this Golden Retriever’s future!
Related: Golden Retriever Hides Stolen Toddler Snack With Impressive Wrestling Moves
Duke Really Is a Rock Thief With His Eye on the ‘Greenie’ Prize
After watching a plethora of videos clearly showing Duke’s methods for more Greenies, I’m now thoroughly convinced that dogs are a whole lot smarter than we give them credit for.
It’s not like he’s done this once or twice, but as often as he collects rocks these days, because in the end, he knows he’ll score the ultimate prize (Greenies)!
Duke is a cutie-pie with brains to boot, so if Mom wants to trade him a treat for his newest rock, so be it. It’s a small price to pay for these hilarious posts!
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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Jan 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.