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For many golden retrievers, holding something isn’t optional. It’s comforting. You’ll often see them greet people with a toy in their mouth. Not because they want to play, but because it gives them something to do with all that excitement.
Without an outlet, that instinct finds its own path. And sometimes, that path leads straight to whatever object is closest, as seen in a hilarious Reddit video where one golden just can’t help himself to the merchandise in a store.
In a video posted on social media platform Reddit, we see a golden retriever who came to the Frying Pan Anglers shop in Basalt, Colorado, with his dad, only to become a part-time “employee.”
But this employee was caught stealing on the job. The video shows the dog happily carrying glasses around the shop like he is doing an amazing job. In his mind, he is.
Then you realize he’s not stocking shelves. He’s stealing everything he can carry.
At first glance, he seems helpful.
He walks around the shop confidently carrying items like he has a job to do. Customers smile. It feels charming. Almost official. He looks like he works there, but he absolutely does not.
What Are Fans Saying About It?
Golden retrievers are among the most popular dogs. Many pet parents love them, and it’s easy to see why. They’re lovable, loyal and love to have fun—including carrying anything and everything in their mouths.
One person commented, “I love how he doesn’t have a clue what he is holding but he knows he wants it.” Another person wrote, “Anyone that owns a golden knows this dance. ‘I think I have something they want back, let me act natural until I can find a spot to destroy it.'”
Others thought the dog is doing the business a favor, with one person saying, “Product demonstration to boost sales.”
Related: See the Rare Moment a Golden Retriever Realizes a Big Ball Is Actually Life-Changing
Why Golden Retrievers Need to Carry Something
The urge to pick things up is hardwired into a golden retriever’s DNA. Bred as gundogs to retrieve waterfowl, they possess what is known as a “soft mouth.” This allows them to carry delicate items without leaving a mark.
Today, their instinct to carry something shows up differently. Shoes. Socks. Random household items. And, apparently, shop supplies.
How to Redirect Their Carrying Behavior
Instead of trying to stop the behavior completely, it usually works better to guide it.
Give them designated items they’re allowed to carry, rotate toys to keep things interesting and reinforce when they choose the right object.
The goal isn’t to turn off what makes a golden a golden. It’s to keep the frying pans out of their mouth.
Related: Adorable Puppy’s Obsession With One Stick Turns Into Pure Chaos
This story was originally published by Parade Pets on Apr 1, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add Parade Pets as a Preferred Source by clicking here.