'Heartbroken' Dog Forms Unbreakable Bond With Pup in Just One Week -

You would think that these two dogs have known each other for a very long time, based on how close they are to each other.

In fact, though, their acquaintance started just seven days before the video of them cuddling was shared on TikTok, racking up over 229,000 views. In it, Jade, a Bernese mountain dog, and Harper, a Rottweiler, can barely keep their paws off each other. At the time of writing, the clip has received more than 11,200 likes and plenty of comments.

Their owner Michelle, 40, told Newsweek about her Bernese mountain dog called Hudson who passed away in 2022, leaving Harper heartbroken.

Until Jade came along in February this year, Michelle said: “Harper immediately started interacting with Jade the same as she used to with Hudson, which is unlike any other interactions she has with other breeds.

“She’s friendly with all dogs, but there’s clearly something different about Bernese mountain dogs that she loves,” she added.

“They play together so well, despite the 10-year age difference. Jade coming into our family has brought out Harper’s inner puppy!”

Dogs cuddling — Two screenshots from the viral video showing Harper, the senior Rottweiler, cuddling her new puppy companion Jade. “They play together so well, despite the 10-year age difference,” the dogs’ owner told Newsweek. TIKTOK/@@HARPER_AND_HUDSON

Introducing Your New Dog or Puppy to Your Current Canine

Michelle, an animal pharmaceuticals sales representative from Melbourne, Australia, kept Jade on a lead during their first meeting. She also made sure they had their own space if they needed.

“But very quickly it was clear they wanted to be together,” Michelle told

Dr. Nick Horniman is a veterinary surgeon based in the U.K. He previously told Newsweek how owners can settle a new pup in.

“When introducing a new puppy to an existing dog, it’s essential to plan a controlled and gradual introduction,” said Horniman, founder of the online pet pharmacy www.mypetsvet.co.uk.

“Begin by allowing the dogs to sniff each other’s beds or toys, to become accustomed to each other’s scent,” Horniman added. “The initial meeting should be in a neutral area, ensuring both dogs are on leashes to maintain control.

“Observe their body language closely: positive signs include relaxed postures and playful gestures. If both dogs appear comfortable, gradually increase their time together under supervision to build a positive relationship,” Horniman said.

The veterinarian added that, if either dog shows signs of discomfort, such as growling, stiff body posture, or avoidance behaviors, owners should separate them immediately and try reintroducing the pair later at a slower pace.

Horniman said: “Patience and positive reinforcement are key to ensuring a successful home life with all of your pooches.”

TikTok Reacts

One user wrote: “He is giving the rottie more enjoyable time with his kisses.”

“Purest form of love,” posted another, while a third commenter added: “That is so cool, they look so beautiful together.”

“I’m crying. But happy tears,” read a fourth comment.

In an ideal world, every senior dog like Harper, 11, would respond positively to a new puppy companion like Jade, who is 1. However, sometimes, the road to friendship can take a little longer; however, it is important for owners never to rush things.

However, some senior dogs simply cannot deal with the puppy stage, like one Labrador retriever who was caught on camera having the worst time with two puppies.

Another owner was shocked to find her dog was trying to “bury” her sister in the backyard; fortunately, she had no success and the pair soon became the best of friends.