Awkward Dog Desperately Attempts To Fit In at Social Gatheringsâ'She Tries'
People tend to associate dogs with bubbly, energetic and social personalities, but like humans, each dog is different. Some dogs are shy and want nothing to do with humans other than their parents.
Take, for instance, Millie. Although Millie's blue heeler breed is known to be friendly and sociable, she's an exception. Instead of being up in everyone's business asking for pets, Millie is "socially awkward" whenever she's in a social setting.
"She's always been pretty anxious," Cherepko told Newsweek via TikTok. "In social events, she tends to hang out around me or my husband. Or like in the video she likes to sit in random spots around the house and just creep around. She wants to be social but doesn't know how."
More From Newsweek Vault: The Top Rewards Credit Cards for Pet Owners
In an April 27 TikTok video posted to owner Mia Cherepko's account, @miamassetti, Millie is huddled in the corner between the couch and the wall. Trying her best to stay involved with the guests, Millie awkwardly sneaks a side glare here and there.
She eventually moved outside, but again, she kept to herself. Sitting behind someone's chair she looked around with hesitation again. It looked like Millie wanted to be involved, but staying by herself in the corners was the most she could do.
The caption confirms that "she tries," and that's all anyone could ever ask for.
An article from Vet Explains Pets shared that dogs can be antisocial for several reasons. This could be due to fear or anxiety, which is especially common in rescue dogs, or perhaps they weren't properly socialized as a puppy. The article also lists medical reasons and environmental changes for potential causes of a dog's antisocial behavior.
More From Newsweek Vault: Pet Insurance 101: How Much Does It Cost and Is It Worth the Price?
'Just an Introvert'
The TikTok clip amassed over 4 million views, 622,900 likes and 3,013 comments as of Monday. Viewers offered Millie support as not every dog can be a people pleaser.
"She's just an introvert waiting for everyone to go home," commented a TikToker.
Luckily, Millie isn't the only one. One person shared: "My beagle faced trees and bushes at a dog park instead of playing with the dogs."
Some viewers felt this personally, claiming they also don't like being in social settings.
"I am her she is me," wrote one person, with a second chiming in: "Millie is my spirit animal."
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.