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A warm bed, plenty of food and water, all the toys, cuddles, and pets that a dog could want — these are the things that our dogs have regular access to every single day, so it’s easy to imagine that all dogs are living similar lives. Heartbreakingly enough, though, plenty of them are without forever families, so when they’re rescued, it can be a huge adjustment to transition into a life where there’s more love and less scarcity.

That means that it might take them a little time to get used to doing the things that most dogs do without thinking twice about it, and for the rescue Beagle in the video below, that’s playing with toys.

Here, we see a precious dog named Elias hanging out on the floor, finally having a good time, stress-free (though maybe he’s a little stressed about it, since he stops playing anytime he realizes his mom is looking at him).

It’s taking him a while to figure everything out, and since the toys are so unfamiliar, it makes sense that he’s a bit apprehensive. But it definitely looks like he’s making progress!

Anyone else crying, or just me?

Related: Pudgy Beagle Puppy Who Just Ate Dinner Immediately Demands More Food

Elias’ Sweet Rescue Story

The story behind Elias’ adoption is so sweet. As his mom explained in an earlier video that was shared last year, he was taken in by a rescue before he found his forever home, and it definitely sounds like he found the right place for him — especially since he had a built-in big sister waiting to become his BFF!

It didn’t take very long for Elias and Denali to become fast friends, even going on hikes together. He fit into his family so well right off the bat, even if he did have some learning (and potty training) to do.

While six year old Elias is still adjusting to his new life, it looks like he’s receiving plenty of hugs from both the human and four-legged members of his family, and plenty of patience to spare. It can be scary trying to navigate post-shelter life, but this dog has it down!

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This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Mar 20, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.