Parade Pets and Yahoo may earn commission from links in this article.
The Oscars are around the corner to award our favorite actors and filmmakers with that coveted golden statue. They should create a category for fur babies, since many of them definitely have a flair for drama.
Teddy the Golden Retriever recently tapped into his inner thespian and pulled off quite a performance at a visit to the veterinarian.
The gorgeous Golden apparently required a doctor to give him a once-over due to some “injury”, yet the TikTok from @taylor.the.creator.07 revealed that Teddy was just fine and most likely pulling a fast one.
“When the vet says he is faking his injury and there is nothing wrong with him,” the onscreen text shared.
Teddy sat next to his mom with his eyes closed, feigning discomfort and distress. His mouth was turned down into a frown to express the great inner turmoil he was battling. The canine cutie was probably using a “method acting” approach, which was very convincing. Still, the vet wasn’t buying it and gave Teddy a clean bill of health.
The pooch’s mom found the fur baby’s dramatic portrayal quite amusing. He probably just wanted extra attention or to get out of training class. Another possibility is that Teddy is turning into a hypochondriac and he embellished some soreness he was experiencing so his mom would get him checked.
Followers were split on whether Teddy was acting or if the vet got the diagnosis wrong.
“He wants a second opinion,” one remarked.
“He’s in so much pain he can’t see straight. I’m afraid only a treat will help him now. And perhaps a new stuffy,” another suggested.
“Oscar-worthy performance,” a follower raved.
“He just doesn’t want to go to school,” someone noted.
“He said ‘You gonna believe that guy?’” a fan pointed out.
Why Do Dogs Fake Injuries?
Though it’s rare for dogs to pretend they’re injured or sick, some have mastered the art of theatrics. This practice is more common in puppies, who are known for their mischief.
The main motive for dogs to fake being hurt or ill is for attention, affection, and, of course, extra treats. Canines learn that when they’re limping or not feeling well, we shower them with extra love and pampering. They notice the benefit of that “sore paw” or added whine and pour it on to get more of the goodies from mom and dad.
Related: Golden Retriever’s Funny Reaction to Spotting Mom in Nail Salon Is the Best
Teddy is already very skilled at his craft, though he’ll have to possibly take some acting lessons to fool the doctor.
🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾
This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Mar 12, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.