Crafty Australian Sheperd Unveils Mischievous Charm While Trying to Steal Stack of 'Pringles'
Australian Shepherds are beloved for their energy and intelligence. They can make quick and complex decisions, often protecting the animals in their care. However, these skills can also be used to steal a crispy snack when the humans are preoccupied.
At least, that’s what this good girl likely thought when she was pulling off the almost perfect crime. Until an unfortunate wrong turn brought her heist to an abrupt end. But it’s what she did after she got caught that makes her the best girl.
See what she did when apprehended in a video shared on October 16:
You can’t blame a girl for trying! Storm (@em_s_smith) thought she’d hit the jackpot when she scored a stack of Pringles. Apparently, this beautiful Australian Shepherd had heard those rumors about being unable to eat only one chip, so she ensured she grabbed a few. And if you’re going to commit the crime, you might as well go for gold! Her plan worked beautifully until she entered a room where Mom was waiting. She was so close! When requested to “Leave it,” she complied and dropped them on the floor, like the well-mannered pup she is. In the comments section, Mom revealed she allowed her to have a chip for being such a good girl!
Do Dogs Understand When They Have Something They Shouldn’t?
Dogs learn what’s expected of them based on our responses to behaviors we find pleasing and the ones we don’t. When they pick up something they’re not supposed to have, like food off the counter, they may recognize from past experiences that this behavior leads to a negative reaction from their human. This understanding can make them appear guilty or sneaky when caught. However, their behavior is more about associating the object or action with a consequence, rather than an inherent understanding that they are doing something wrong. According to VCA Animal Hospitals, when dogs steal food, they are unlikely to remember doing it once the treat is gone.
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People came to this dog’s defense. One person remarked, “Poor baby! She was clearly cleaning up a mess from the kitchen, only to be accused of a crime later! The indignity!.” Ha! It’s a defense worth trying. Viewer @jilliebeing responded, “This is the goodest girl, even though she tried to play it off casually.” Her willingness to give them up proves she is! Another person shared, “Omg, my dog would have eaten all the evidence long before I could catch him in the act. No shame in that guy!” Mine also would have inhaled them too quickly to catch.
Even the most well-behaved dogs may have moments of weakness. Resisting salty snacks is difficult for them, just like it is for us.
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