Some dogs have a favorite toy they carry everywhere.
Winny, a black Labrador, appears to have taken things one adorable step further.
Every night when it’s time for dinner, Winny doesn’t immediately dig into her food. Instead, she brings her favorite stuffed toy over to the bowl and carefully positions it nearby so her “baby” can eat first.
According to her owner, this sweet little ritual happens every night.
The Lab gently moves the toy closer to her food, almost as if she’s making sure it gets a proper dinner before she starts eating herself.
Only after her stuffed companion is settled in does Winny turn her attention to her own meal.
The routine has left viewers completely charmed.
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There’s something especially sweet about watching a dog treat a stuffed animal like a tiny family member that needs to be looked after.
And while Winny’s “baby” may not be real, the nurturing behavior behind the routine can certainly look convincing.
Dogs sometimes form incredibly strong attachments to toys, blankets and other familiar objects. Some may carry them around for comfort, sleep beside them or repeatedly bring them to certain places.
Other dogs can display behaviors that look surprisingly maternal, even if they’ve never had puppies.
Whatever is behind Winny’s nightly dinner ritual, one thing is obvious: she takes caring for her little stuffed friend very seriously.
For this sweet Lab, dinner apparently isn’t complete until everyone at the table has been served.