You can always count on a working dog to handle any task, but this Australian shepherd definitely leaned into his job more than expected.
In a viral TikTok video shared by owner Lauren (@grizzonthego), Grizz can be seen lying on top of his puppy sibling called Banjo, who is now 2. Grizz appears to be relaxing while Banjo’s legs are squirming underneath.
The text layered over says: “when your dog takes puppy sitting a bit too serious,” earning over 62,000 likes.
Lauren joked in the caption: “Maybe this is why Banjo sits on Grizz all the time now. Payback for trying to smother him.”
Today, that couldn’t happen as Banjo—who is a large Munsterlander—is “the size of a mini horse,” states the caption of another clip showing the black and white German breed.
Viewers were quick to weigh in on Grizz’s determination.
“He’s so proud,” said one user referring to Grizz, and Lauren replied: “He wanted to get rid of Banjo so bad.”
Another commenter added: “When an Aussie has a job you better believe it will be done and done oddly but more importantly doggo is doing it to the fullest. My brother has 8 kids one Christmas our Aussie was herding them in the kitchen. My mom asked what he was doing he was still I puppy. I told her his job lol they are an amazing breed.”
“This is how my dog tried to babysit me,” said another user.
Lauren reassured that Grizz removed himself after the eight‑second video. But should older dogs be left alone when a puppy is introduced to the family?
Why Older Dogs Need Breaks
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), older dogs need regular breaks from energetic puppies. Even if they get along well, it’s important to step in before either dog becomes tired, frustrated, or overstimulated. Interrupting play, redirecting the puppy, or giving each dog separate rest time can prevent tension from building.
The Importance of Supervision
The AKC states supervision is essential when introducing a puppy to an older dog. Even if both animals seem to get along, they’re still dogs—and accidents can happen. A smooth first meeting doesn’t guarantee an effortless relationship, and owners shouldn’t assume the process will unfold as seamlessly as it does on TV.
The AKC notes that many owners overlook early signs that an older dog is uncomfortable with a puppy’s behavior. These signals of stress are often ignored, which can lead to a situation where the older dog eventually snaps, making it appear as though the reaction came out of nowhere. Proper introductions are only the beginning; ongoing supervision is key to helping both dogs build a healthy, safe bond.
Creating Safe Spaces for Both Dogs
The AKC also stresses the importance of giving puppies their own contained space, such as a crate or playpen. This setup helps with house training, stops unwanted chewing, and reduces the chances of conflict by limiting interactions to moments when they can be fully supervised. It also ensures the older dog has somewhere to retreat when they need a break, helping both dogs maintain a positive, healthy relationship.
Newsweek reached out to @grizzonthego for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.