Hoping to get her puppy socialized, the owner took her dachshund to class, but the pup’s reaction made her realize they’d never go back.
Irina Palacios recently brought her 16-week-old dachshund, Cookie, to her first puppy socialization class in hopes she would make a friend. Early socialization for puppies is key to having a happy, confident and well-adjusted dog, according to the American Kennel Club.
Instead of interacting with the other pups, Cookie stayed to the side of the play area and kept her eyes on Palacios, letting it be known she wasn’t having any of the class. Her wary reaction stole hearts in a March 28 Instagram post under the account @weeniexmom, and as of Wednesday, the clip has reached over 6.8 million views and nearly 2,500 comments.
“It was funny to me how, during almost the whole interaction, she kept giving the other dog the side eye,” Palacios told Newsweek via email.
In the video, Cookie stuck her head between the gate as if to beg for freedom from the socialization class. Anytime the other puppy came near, she retreated, overwhelmed by the energetic classmate. If that weren’t enough, her eyes revealed all. The side eyeing showed she was judging the other pup for not settling down, and then the giant eyes to her owner said she wanted saving.
After posting the clip to Instagram, Palacios noticed controversy stirring within the comments. She never expected to go viral or to have such conflicting reactions. She thought she was doing a nice thing for her puppy, but many did not see it that way, she said.
“Some people said what we did was really wrong, while others just found it really funny and left humorous comments,” she said.
One comment read: “In her defense, that furball of fury is doing too much.”
Another added: “I mean, can you blame her—the other puppy is obviously obsessed with her. Serious side eye!”
Those against the class asked Palacios not to send her to class again, as their dog had been traumatized from a similar experience. Someone else said: “Not all dogs like to socialise. Especially with this kind of high energy.”
Palacios said they have not returned to that class.
“Of course, there were things that could have been improved, like having a bigger space or a calmer, less energetic dog, since my pup isn’t that high-energy,” she said.
Ways To Socialize Puppies
While puppy classes are often recommended, they are not the only way to help a young dog build confidence. According to PetMD, socialization can be done gradually and in ways that better match a puppy’s temperament.
For more timid dogs like Cookie, experts suggest starting interactions with calm, well-behaved dogs rather than high-energy group settings. Short, positive exposures—such as meeting a friend’s dog, visiting quiet parks, or sitting outside to watch people and traffic—can help puppies adjust without becoming overwhelmed.
Introducing puppies to a variety of sounds, surfaces, and environments—from car rides to different flooring textures—also plays a key role in development. The goal is to create positive associations so new experiences feel safe rather than stressful. Tools like high-value training treats, a secure harness, or even a portable playpen can make these early experiences more manageable and comfortable for both puppy and owner.
Importantly, socialization should move at the puppy’s pace. If a dog shows signs of fear or discomfort, experts recommend giving them space and trying again later in a more controlled setting.
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