80-Pound Rescued Bernese Mountain Dog Loves Being 'Rocked Like a Baby'

Is it just me, or does anyone else have a dog who seems to have no idea how large they actually are? My Boxer mix isn't a big dog by any means, but she also isn't a lap dog. I would really miss the days when she was a puppy and could easily nap on my chest... except she still tries to do that and almost suffocates me in the process. She's a sweetie pie, but she has no clue that she's not that tiny puppy anymore, and even if she does, she isn't too bothered by it as long as she still gets her cuddles!

This philosophy certainly seems to apply to the sweet pup in this TikTok video. Despite the fact that she belongs to a pretty big dog breed, she still loves to be rocked like a baby. And with a face like that, who could deny her that experience?

This precious footage comes to us from @thebernerbunch, who shared the video on Monday, March 11. Having recently adopted this rescue dog, Annie, her new mom has realized that she loves being rocked — go figure!

"When you find out the 80 lb, adult rescue dog you adopted, who had little to no human interaction prior to being rescued, feels safe when she's rocked like a baby..." Annie's new humans wrote in the video. 

This sweet Bernese Mountain Dog looks so relaxed in her mama's arms — almost like they were meant to find each other this whole time! And sure, she's a huge dog, but it doesn't matter when she managed to find a human who doesn't mind as long as it makes her feel loved! 

One comment really sums it up well: "Who could see that dog and not spend every second with her just gazing into her eyes and kissing her nose?" 

How to Help Rescue Dogs Feel Safe

Many rescue dogs come with heartbreaking stories, and this means that it can be a true adjustment when they join your family. They may not feel safe around humans or other animals, and they may be coming from a place where they had to have all of their defenses up at all times.

Fortunately, there are ways to disarm them and teach them to trust you and feel safe in their new home. The Alliance of Therapy Dogs recommends starting out by giving them a guided tour of your home on a lead, letting them get the lay of the land. 

It can also be helpful to create a safe space for them in the home, like a crate with bedding and their food and water bowls. Don't disturb them while they're there — at least, not until well after they're used to living with you.

Giving them a daily routine can make a difference, too. Feeding them and walking them at the same times every day, and giving them a bedtime can help them know what to expect, which can go along way in making them feel that they'll be cared for.

It can be a process, but in the end, it's worth it. As humans, we can do so much for dogs who really need it, and they're sure to return the favor with plenty of love right back.