To us, a hair dryer is just part of a normal grooming routine. To a puppy, it might look — and sound — like a high-pitched wind machine sent to ruin their day. Many pet parents have witnessed their furry companions react with suspicion or full-on panic to household items. Now, one hilarious video captures a Golden Retriever puppy who is absolutely convinced the hair dryer is a threat.
Golden Retriever puppy thinks hair dryer is out to get him in funny video
Shared by Instagram user @maui_thegoldenpup, the video features a Golden Retriever puppy named Hugo who is clearly not a fan of post-bath blow drying. The clip begins with Hugo sitting calmly on his owner’s lap as she attempts to dry him off with a hair dryer after a bath. However, within seconds, the calm turns into panic. He starts flinching, then squirms out of her arms and makes a quick getaway.
According to the onscreen text, the owner was caught off guard by Hugo’s reaction. She mentioned that he seemed fine at first, but his discomfort escalated quickly. On a second attempt during another bath, Hugo had the same distressed reaction. Although the hair dryer was set to “no heat” and “low air,” Hugo wanted nothing to do with it. Meanwhile, a towel proved to be a much more acceptable drying method for the sensitive pup.
Interestingly, Hugo’s curiosity occasionally got the better of him, and he would sniff the dryer, only to panic again when switched on. His owner also noted that her two other dogs, Maui and Ruby, had never been bothered by the hair dryer as puppies, making Hugo’s reaction even more unique.
If your dog is scared of a hair dryer, there are gentler ways to help them dry off. Toweling them thoroughly is a good first step, and some dogs may prefer absorbent microfiber towels designed specifically for pets.
If using a dryer is necessary, consider a pet-specific model that is quieter and has adjustable heat and speed settings. Always start at a distance, and allow your dog to sniff the device while it is switched off. Gradually desensitizing them with short, low-pressure sessions can also help build comfort over time. Most importantly, be patient and let your dog set the pace.
