Rescue Dog Always Holds Something In Her Mouth When Mom Comes Home-Here's Why
Understanding dog behaviors, like why dogs hold things in their mouths, can be tricky even for those who've been around canines all their lives. We don't have a shared language to communicate with, but we can ask questions about dogs' quirks and habits, just like dog mom @glazersguide did after her rescue Chihuahua, Pinky, began doing something funny.
The rescue dog has many quirks, including 'presenting' different items to her mom whenever she comes home. On May 21, the item of choice was a used napkin, which Pinky held on to as she cuddled as close to her mama as possible. She may be a bit confusing at times, but there's no question she adores her mom.
@glazersguide I don't always understand her, but I adore her. #rescuedog#shelterdog#pinkytherescuedog#chihuahuas
original sound - Glazer's Guide
Pinky is such an affectionate dog! She's been with her mama for about half a year so far, but it's clear she already feels safe and at home with her forever family. Quirks and silly behaviors are exactly the kind of behavior that everyone wants to see from their rescue dogs, even when they can be a bit confusing.
It turns out that Pinky isn't the only pup who enjoys carrying items around or presenting them to their favorite people. Commenter @olive_and_c wrote, "My adopted dog does it too. We call them parades because everyone in the room gets a turn." That's so cute that no one gets left out!
"My dog has big feelings after eating her breakfast, so she gets her stuffed Bigfoot and cries into it," @deepsea_fanglyfish shared. "We call it her 'yeti upsetti.'" This priceless comment thread is the perfect proof that every dog has their own unique personality, even if it's hidden behind fear or shyness.
Related: 14-Year-Old Labrador Retriever Starts 'Running' When She Spots Mom at the End of Her Walk
As cute as @konagirl66's explanation is-"She's so grateful that you adopted her, she's bringing you presents"-that's not quite what's happening here. Why dogs hold things in their mouths can change from one dog to the next, but canine experts could see exactly what's happening here.
Why Dogs Hold Things In Their Mouths
Many commenters were onto something when they interpreted Pinky's retrieving behavior as a way of dealing with big feelings, but one commenter, @daintydaggerse, explained exactly what was going on.
"Hi! Animal rescue worker here, and mom of many dogs! We call those "items of displacement." This usually happens when dogs are so overwhelmed with joy that they grab something in the house to help regulate their emotions. Kind of like a baby with a pacifier!"
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Now, Pinky's mom can say for sure that her little rescue dog absolutely adores her. This is the most adorable proof!
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This story was originally published May 26, 2026 at 7:40 PM.