Anyone who has a pup knows that they can be full of energy one minute and then immediately turn into a cuddle monster the next. The balance between playtime and relaxation is something every pup navigates, and sometimes they just can’t seem to make up their minds. One viral video captures this perfectly, showing a dog caught in the ultimate struggle between playing and cuddling.
Dog goes back and forth between playing and cuddling in cute video
Shared by Instagram user @appathesamoyed, the clip features a Samoyed named Appa who is having a tough time deciding whether to play with his ball or settle in for a cuddle. In the clip, Appa is joyfully playing with the ball, but after a moment, he pauses, stretching out and curling up as though he’s ready to relax. However, it’s not long before the playful mood kicks in again, and he’s back to nibbling on the ball. The onscreen text humorously reads, “Can’t decide between playing or cuddling,” perfectly summing up the adorable indecision.
With their fluffy white coats, pointed ears, and bright eyes, Samoyeds have earned the nickname “smiling Sammies” because of their joyful expressions. They’re highly social dogs that form strong bonds with their families, making them especially fond of activities like cuddling, playing, and being part of the family dynamic. This breed is both active and loving, which is why Appa’s playful nature is no surprise.
Just like Appa in the video, dogs sometimes hug themselves as a way of expressing excitement, contentment, or simply to self-soothe. In Appa’s case, the act of briefly cuddling himself between bursts of play could show that he’s overwhelmed with happiness and trying to settle his own energy. It’s also common for affectionate breeds like Samoyeds to seek physical sensations that remind them of closeness and safety, even if it’s just from themselves.
