When Duke, a golden retriever, spotted a deer during his evening walk, he didn’t chase it like most dogs would. Instead, he sat down calmly on the grass to observe. His owner captured this humorous moment and shared it on TikTok in September 2025.
In the video, a white-tailed fawn walks fearlessly along a rural road, showing no concern for Duke or his owner. Duke’s owner gently urges him to look at the deer. At first, Duke hesitates, whining a bit before finally turning to see the deer up close. The two share curious glances, but Duke ultimately remains seated, captivated.
This peaceful encounter raises an intriguing question: Can dogs and deer actually be friends? While such friendships are uncommon, there are notable examples. In Indiana, a dog and a wild doe played together through a fence, mirroring each other’s movements as if they were old friends. In South Carolina, a terrier named Jane frolicked with a deer in a meadow with no signs of aggression.
Perhaps one of the most touching friendships was shared on TikTok in July 2024, showcasing a black rescue dog and a fawn named Ellie snuggling and bonding. This unique bond allowed Ellie to interact with other farm animals as if she were part of their pack.
While these stories are endearing, it’s essential to remember that such connections are exceptions rather than norms. Animals usually act according to their instincts. Deer, in particular, can be defensive during mating or birthing seasons, so supervision is always necessary if dogs encounter wild wildlife.
Interestingly, a 2021 study found that dogs and deer can communicate through body language. Dogs often display calming signals, such as sitting and lying down, which may help reduce a deer’s fear. This suggests that with a gentle approach, some dogs could build a bond with deer over time.
Duke’s encounter with the deer illustrates how calm, curious interactions can sometimes break through instinctual barriers. It highlights the beauty of nature and the potential for friendships between different species, even if they are quite rare.
For more heartwarming stories about interspecies friendships and the wonders of animal behavior, check out 16 interspecies friendships that are too pure for this timeline and the cutest pet friendships of all time.
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