Golden retrievers are best known for their goofy, friendly personalities, but internet users were not prepared for one to form an unlikely friendship with a rodent.
A Reddit user, who goes by u/VariationLow5046, has shared photos of her 5‑month‑old golden retriever climbing into the enclosure of her guinea pig, Murphy, and lying peacefully beside him. The post, shared on March 26, was titled: “Does anyone else [have] a golden puppy who loves [and] think he’s a guinea pig?”
According to the owner, the bond began when the golden was just 12 weeks old. She wrote: “Their relationship has blossomed ever since.”
Now, the puppy regularly spends time inside Murphy’s cage, lying next to him as if he were one of his own kind. At times, the dog even helps himself to Murphy’s food, nibbling on hay and taking a sip from the guinea pig’s water bottle.
The woman added that she also owns a 5‑year‑old golden retriever, “but that doesn’t stop him from loving his baby guinea pig brother, Murphy!”
She believes the affection goes both ways, explaining that Murphy appears relaxed and happy whenever the puppy visits.
“I know my guinea pig loves it because he does popcorns (happy/excited) when he comes to visit, also he grooms himself and eats. Since they are prey animals this means he trusts him completely!”
She concluded the post by describing their bond as an “odd” but “cute relationship,” adding that she may need to upgrade Murphy’s space to accommodate his growing canine companion.
Golden retrievers are known for their playful, affectionate nature, but they were originally bred as hunting dogs.
The American Kennel Club (AKC) says the breed was developed as a gundog, designed to retrieve waterfowl for hunters. Goldens are energetic, powerful workers that enjoy outdoor activity and are naturally inclined to fetch and swim, thanks to their working background.
Despite those instincts, this golden is far from the only one to show affection toward smaller animals.
One Reddit user commented: “Our golden loves to check in with our guinea pig, and will give her little licks and sniffs. The hard part is stopping her from munching on the poo though.”
The original poster replied: “Yes!!!! Mine loves his poo, good fiber and less cleaning I have to do though.”
Another user wrote, “SUPER CUTE! Mine thinks he is a bunny, goldens are the best,” while a third offered a more cautionary perspective.
“This is so cute. My red golden girl is a patient, affectionate, sweet, angel to all people and children. I also have also had to physically stop her from killing / eating / attacking multiple woodland creatures, sometimes unsuccessfully (sorry baby bunnies). She’s also absolutely heartbroken when she gets yelled at for it while in the act. I pray she never lays eyes on anyone’s guinea pig.”
Newsweek reached out to u/VariationLow5046 for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.