The short clip, shared widely online, shows the dog lying down behind a white safety gate, with its face pressed firmly against the bars.
The resulting squish gives the illusion of an exaggerated, cartoon-like grin, made all the more endearing by the dog’s relaxed posture and closed eyes.
Hilarious clip
The video becomes even funnier when the Golden Retriever leans back from the bars and looks at the camera, seemingly clueless about what all the fuss is about.
Although the smile is unintentional, the internet has been quick to comment.
Everyone in stitches
One user commented, “This is the kind of joy we all need right now,” while another joked, “I’ve never related to a dog more, trapped but still smiling.”
Experts note that dogs often press their faces to barriers out of curiosity or affection, but in this case, the visual effect is pure serendipity.
Has your dog ever done anything like this?