Sharing is caring, but try telling that to a dog who just wants a quiet nap. While some pups are endlessly patient with their companions, others have a way of showing exactly how they feel without saying a word. A viral video shows how one Australian Shepherd handled a clingy foster dog with the kind of expression every introvert will recognize instantly.
Instagram video shows dog reacting to foster dog occupying his personal space
Finley, an Australian Shepherd, is no ordinary pet. He is also Maggie’s psychiatric service dog, a role that has made him a constant and grounding presence in her life. Maggie has often said their bond has “completely changed” the way she lives day to day. Alongside Finley, she also raises Sadie, another Aussie. But earlier this year, Maggie decided to open her home to foster dogs, giving pups in need a safe place to stay until they find permanent homes.
Her third foster, Milo, has brought both joy and humor to the household. At just six months old, Milo is playful, affectionate, and, as one video shows, extremely clingy. In the clip, Milo hugs Finley from behind and resting on him as though he were a pillow. Maggie calls the moment “cute” as she films, but when the camera pans to Finley’s face, the scene takes a turn. His wide-eyed, uncomfortable expression makes it clear he’s not thrilled about the invasion of his personal space.
Despite his unease, Finley stays put and tolerates Milo’s clinginess with quiet resignation. Maggie laughs in the video, joking, “This is why we can’t keep our foster dogs.” She quickly reassures Finley with pets, calling him a “good boy” and thanking him for being patient with Milo’s antics.
Within a week, the reel had nearly 5 million views and more than 256K likes, with thousands of comments pouring in. Many commenters couldn’t resist translating Finley’s unimpressed expression. One viewer wrote, “Finley said, ‘get rid of it.’” Another joked, “Finley’s nonverbal communication skills are at 100%.” Many related to his wish for alone time, with one fan writing, “Finley is making abundantly clear he’s happy being an only child.”
