Just about every animal lover ever has asked the question, “If this animal is not my friend, then why are they shaped like an adorable friend?” This is especially true when they see a big, fluffy wild animal, such as a wolf or a grizzly bear. These may be mighty apex predators, but that doesn’t mean that they aren’t also totally adorable at the same time.
Now, thanks to some very up close and personal, very rare grizzly bear footage, people are asking this question all over again. This video from Utah’s Hogle Zoo in Salt Lake City has people wanting to cuddle with this cute apex predator that one could easily describe as a big old murder plushie.
If all anyone knew of grizzly bears was what they could glean from this footage, they might easily mistake this creature for a very rare and unique dog breed. Just look at the way they sniff at the camera.
Their eyes are full of curiosity, and they even appear to lick the lens a bit. In one adorable instance at the start of this footage, this grizzly bear is panting with their tongue hanging out of their mouth, just like a lovable canine companion!
Related: Massive Bear’s Precious Doggy Paddle Gives off Pure, Wholesome Teddy Bear Vibes
According to this video, grizzly bears have an “incredible sense of smell,” which allows them to always be tuned in to their surroundings. In this particular instance, this adorable grizzly bear might be sniffing this camera to figure out what it is. Without a doubt, the curiosity in this creature’s eyes is totally adorable and priceless!
This Rare Grizzly Bear Footage Is Winning the Internet
A playful-looking grizzly bear.Image via Shutterstock/ROBERT ENRIQUEZ
(Image via Shutterstock/ROBERT ENRIQUEZ)
Viewers on social media had a lot to say about this one. Many people had a similar train of thought to us when they viewed this clip: “If not friend, why friend shape? Looks like this cutie wants some good cuddles.” With other social media users adding, “Oh, I just want to hug that big old plushie!”
However, some viewers on social media expressed a strong desire to affectionately play with this grizzly bear, making comments like, “I just want to boop their nose,” and “Don’t worry, everyone, I already booped them through the phone!”
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 PetHelpful on Apr 1, 2026, where it first appeared in the Pet News section. Add PetHelpful as a Preferred Source by clicking here.