German Shepherd Puppy Learning the 'Play Dead' Trick Dies in the Cutest Way – AOL.com
German Shepherds are famous for their intelligence, but a puppy named Willow is proving they’re also full of charm. In a TikTok clip that’s quickly stealing hearts, Willow is learning the classic "play dead" trick in the most adorable way possible.
The video shows her pet parent pointing a finger like a pretend gun and saying the cue. Without hesitation, Willow flops over onto her side and "dies" dramatically, but instead of going completely stiff, she melts into a snuggly little ball. It’s less obedience training stunt and more cozy snuggle time, and honestly, it’s one of the cutest things you’ll ever see.
The clip comes from @gsd_willow, and the comments are full of love for this little star. One person wrote, "Sosmart, so awesome and adorable." Another added, "She’s just the prettiest baby ever. You never see long-haired German Shepherds." Someone else gushed, "She’s such a smart girl!" while another summed it up with: "Oh my gosh, I can’t handle this most beautiful baby ever."
Tricks like "play dead" are fun and entertaining, but they’re even easier to teach once your pup has the basics down. Commands like sit, stay, and come give your dog a foundation for learning new things, and they also keep them safe in everyday situations. Once those essentials are solid, you can move on to playful tricks that challenge their brain and strengthen your bond.
Remember to use high-reward treats, be consistent with training, and finish training sessions with some playtime so your dog associates training with positivity! Willow is the perfect example of how training can be both smart and snuggly at the same time. She's just the cutest and smartest pup ever!
