For kids, learning to share is a vital and foundational skill that enables them to build friendships, develop empathy and navigate social relationships. Sharing teaches them skills like cooperation, negotiation and more—and there is no better teacher than a dog. Having a dog helps children learn some of the most vital skills for success in life.
A video that recently appeared on TikTok shows exactly how dogs help children learn to share. The sweet moment captured the hearts of fans with a simple setup and an honest result.
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In the video, we see mom, dad, their kid and their golden retriever sit at the counter. Each person reveals what is on their plate. The parents have one piece of food, while the toddler has two. The dog, however, has none.
The family set their child up for success. The goal is clear: they want to see whether their child will share. With the dog sitting closely and watching quietly, after a brief pause, the toddler hands him one of his two pieces. There was little to no hesitation on his part.
While it looks like a small act, it carries plenty of weight. It shows empathy in real time, and the child making an independent decision, without anyone instructing him to share.
How the Internet Reacted
The adorable video got plenty of positive reactions from viewers. This child and his dog are clearly best friends, and as one commenter wrote, “never leave a BFF empty.”
The sweet video definitely made fans emotional, with some commenting, “I’m crying! This is the sweetest way to teach your children to share and how to also teach them to be kind to animals! Their bond is the cutest!” Other people wrote, “This would have me in TEARSSS” and “Never seen a boy so in love with his pup.”
But the most important part is that we can all agree that children and dogs should grow up together. As one commenter said: “Children raised around animals and taught to respect and care for them, make great adults.”
The Benefits of Growing Up With Dogs
Sharing is not the only lesson kids learn from dogs. Little boys and girls who grow up with dogs benefit in many ways, including lower stress levels, more physical activity and learning social behavior.
Kids learn to read cues and body language like what a wagging tail or lowered ears mean. Understanding body language helps kids grow up to be emotionally aware adults.
In this video, we see one of the most beautiful interactions between them. The golden retriever does not demand attention. The toddler does not guard his plate. The exchange is simple and direct.
In many homes, moments like this happen off camera. This one just happened to be recorded, and it reminds us how early empathy can start when a child and a dog grow up side by side.
Related: French Bulldog Joins Child in Time Out As a Show of Solidarity
This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Feb 19, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.