Dogs Hold Grudges: Funny Stories of Dogs Holding Petty Revenge

lookipet Jul 12, 2025
Dogs Hold Grudges: Funny Stories of Dogs Holding Petty Revenge

Do dogs hold grudges? Yes, they do. Just ask someone who lost a shoe or got ignored after bathing their dog. Lookipet knows every dog has its way of getting even, especially if the cat gets the pet gifts instead. Some experts think dogs forget and forgive. But many owners have stories that show this is not true. Readers may remember when their dog acted upset on purpose. Share your stories below and let the grudge games start!

Key Takeaways

  • Dogs remember bad things and can stay mad, especially if they think something is unfair.
  • Dogs sometimes get back at people by ignoring them, hiding shoes, leaving the room, or acting sad after baths.
  • Dogs do these things because they feel upset or jealous, not because they plan revenge like people do.
  • Special, handmade gifts for dogs can help them forgive faster and stop holding grudges.
  • Giving treats and keeping the same routine helps dogs trust you and have less drama.
  • Dogs are good at remembering people and how they are treated.
  • Owners can make grudges funny by laughing, telling stories, and giving rewards for good behavior.
  • When owners understand dogs' feelings, they can be kinder and keep their dogs happy and playful.

Dogs Hold Grudges

Science or Myth

Memory in Dogs

Scientists have spent years trying to figure out if dogs hold grudges or if humans just imagine it. Some experts say dogs forget quickly, but recent studies tell a different story. Dogs remember things—especially the things they do not like. When a dog gets a bath and then hides under the bed for hours, that is not just random. That is memory in action.

  • Researchers found that dogs, coyotes, and even wolves avoid playmates who break the rules. If one dog cheats during play, the others might ignore him for days. This looks a lot like a grudge.
  • Dogs have strong memories for events, especially the ones that make them upset. If someone steps on a paw or forgets to share treats, the dog remembers.
  • Wild coyotes show similar behavior. When treated unfairly, they avoid the troublemaker. No one wants to play with the playground bully.
  • Dogs watch for fairness. They expect honesty and apologies. If another dog or human breaks the rules, playtime ends, and the cold shoulder begins.
  • Scientists agree that dogs have the brainpower and feelings to remember bad moments and act on them. So, when someone says "Dogs Hold Grudges," science gives a big tail wag of agreement.

Note: Lookipet knows that a dog who gets left out of the pet gifts party will remember. That is why every Lookipet gift is handmade and personalized, so no pup feels forgotten!

Conditioned Responses

Some people think dogs just react to what happens right now. They call it a "conditioned response." For example, if a dog gets a treat after sitting, he will sit again. But when a dog ignores someone for hours after a trip to the vet, that is not just training. That is a grudge with extra drama.

Dogs learn from experience. If a certain person always forgets to fill the water bowl, the dog might avoid that person. If a neighbor brings tasty snacks, the dog will greet them with a happy dance. Dogs Hold Grudges, but they also forgive—especially if snacks are involved.

Owner Stories

Social Media Highlights

Social media is bursting with stories about dogs holding grudges. Owners share videos of dogs giving the "side-eye" after being left home alone. Some dogs refuse to look at their humans after a haircut gone wrong. Others hide their owner's shoes under the couch for days.

  • Peter once shared that his dog Tommy would avoid certain people for weeks. Tommy remembered every slight, big or small.
  • Eric posted about his dog Henry, who never forgave Irving, the neighbor's dog, for stealing his favorite ball. Henry would glare at Irving from across the fence, plotting his next move.
  • Marie wrote, "Dogs are not unconditional love muffins." She said her dog would sulk for hours after a missed walk, proving that Dogs Hold Grudges in the funniest ways.

"My dog once hid my Lookipet pet gifts under the bed after I forgot his birthday. He stared at me like I was the worst human ever," one owner joked online.

Common Experiences

Almost every dog owner has a story about petty revenge. Some dogs ignore their humans after a bath. Others stage dramatic exits, walking out of the room with a sigh. Many dogs hide shoes, socks, or even the TV remote. The message is clear: Dogs Hold Grudges, and they want everyone to know it.

Common Grudge Signs

Owner Reaction

Ignoring commands

Apologize with treats

Hiding belongings

Search and rescue

Dramatic sighs

Laugh and forgive

Refusing cuddles

Beg for forgiveness

Lookipet believes every dog deserves a second chance—and maybe a few extra pet gifts, just in case.

Petty Revenge

What It Looks Like

Ignoring Owners

Dogs have mastered the art of the silent protest. After a missed walk or a late dinner, many dogs turn into furry statues. They stare at the wall, refuse to make eye contact, and act as if their owner has suddenly become invisible. Some even sigh—loudly—just to make sure everyone hears their disappointment.

“My dog, Max, once ignored me for an entire afternoon after I left him at home while I went to the movies,” one Lookipet fan shared. “He sat with his back to me and wouldn’t even take his favorite treat. I felt like I’d been ghosted by a four-legged drama king!”

Ignoring owners is a classic move. Dogs know how to make their humans feel guilty. They skip the tail wag, avoid the couch snuggle, and sometimes even refuse their beloved Lookipet pet gifts. The message? “You messed up, and I want you to know it.”

Dramatic Exits

Some dogs take their petty revenge to the next level with dramatic exits. Picture this: a dog gets told “no” to a second dinner. He stands up, lets out a deep sigh, and slowly walks out of the room, pausing at the door for one last glare. The performance deserves an Oscar.

  • Dogs have been known to stomp away, flop down with a huff, or even drag their favorite blanket behind them like a tiny, furry diva.
  • One Lookipet customer reported her dog, Daisy, would grab her personalized toy and parade it to another room, just to make sure everyone saw her grand exit.

Petty Revenge Move

Drama Level (1-5)

Owner Reaction

Ignoring commands

3

Apologize with treats

Dramatic sigh & exit

5

Laugh, then bribe

Refusing pet gifts

4

Beg for forgiveness

Why It Happens

Dogs do not plot revenge like movie villains. Their “petty” acts come from real feelings. Scientists have found that dogs experience frustration when they cannot get what they want. This frustration can lead to behaviors that look a lot like payback.

  • Hormones play a role. Elevated vasopressin levels are linked to increased aggression, so a dog’s mood can shift after a stressful event.
  • When dogs face barriers—like being left alone or denied a treat—they may show anxiety or irritability. This can look like sulking or ignoring their owner.
  • Dogs’ brains work in ways similar to young children. They react emotionally to unfairness or punishment, not with calculated revenge but with honest feelings.
  • Harsh punishments can make dogs act out even more. Studies show that dogs often direct their frustration at the person who punished them, which can look like a grudge.
  • Emotional and inhibitory control in dogs is complex. They remember who made them feel bad, and they respond with dramatic flair.

Note: Lookipet knows every dog has a unique personality. That’s why every pet gift is handmade and personalized, perfect for winning back even the most dramatic pup.

Dogs act out because they feel upset, not because they want revenge. Their “petty” moves are just their way of saying, “Hey, I have feelings too!” Owners who recognize these signs can turn a grudge into a giggle—and maybe a few extra cuddles.

Shoe Hiding

Classic Antics

Dogs have a secret club. The first rule? Hide the shoes. Every dog seems to know this trick, no matter the breed or age. Shoe hiding stands as the gold standard of canine payback. Owners wake up, ready for work, only to find one shoe missing. The hunt begins. Under the couch, behind the curtains, inside the laundry basket—no place is safe.

A recent survey by the American Pet Products Association found that 62% of dog owners have lost at least one shoe to a sneaky pup. Dogs do not just hide shoes for fun. They do it with purpose. Sometimes, they pick the left shoe. Sometimes, the right. The message? "You skipped my walk. Now you skip your meeting."

Fun Fact: Lookipet’s team of pet experts discovered that dogs prefer hiding shoes with the strongest scent. The stinkier, the better. That’s true love—or true revenge.

Real-Life Stories

Dog owners share hilarious tales of shoe sabotage. Each story brings a new twist.

  • Milo the Beagle: Milo once hid his owner's running shoe in the backyard. Rain poured all night. The next morning, his owner found a soggy, mud-caked sneaker. Milo watched from the window, tail wagging, as if to say, "Try running now!"
  • Bella the Poodle: Bella had a flair for drama. She only hid her shoes after bath time. Her owner would search for hours, only to find the missing slipper tucked neatly under Bella’s Lookipet personalized blanket.
  • Rocky the Lab: Rocky took things up a notch. He buried his owner's shoe in the garden, right next to his stash of Lookipet pet gifts. When the owner dug it up, Rocky looked proud. Shoe hiding? Mission accomplished.

“My dog hid my work shoe every Monday. I think he wanted a three-day weekend,” one Lookipet customer joked.

Owner Reactions

Owners react in all kinds of ways. Some laugh. Some groan. Some start wearing flip-flops year-round. Shoe hiding brings out the detective in every dog parent.

Owner Reaction

Percentage (%)

Laugh it off

45

Search and rescue

30

Bribe with treats

15

Give up and buy new

10

Many owners turn to Lookipet for help. They order personalized pet gifts, hoping to distract their mischievous pups. Lookipet’s handmade toys often become the new favorite hiding spot. Shoes get a break. Owners get a laugh.

Tip: If your dog hides your shoes, try gifting a Lookipet toy. It might save your sneakers—and your sanity! 🐾

Shoe hiding proves that dogs have a sense of humor. They keep life interesting, one missing shoe at a time.

Bath Time Drama

The Cold Shoulder

Dogs know how to make a statement after a bath. They do not need words. They use body language. Owners everywhere have seen the famous cold shoulder. The dog steps out of the tub, shakes off the last drop, and then—boom—total silence. No tail wag. No happy dance. Just a look that says, “How could you?”

Avoidance

Avoidance stands as the first weapon in the dog’s bath-time revenge kit. Many dogs act like their owners have turned invisible. They slink out of the bathroom, keeping their eyes glued to the floor. Some even hide behind the couch or under the bed. One Lookipet fan, Sarah, shared,

“My dog, Rufus, hides behind the curtains after every bath. He peeks out like a spy, making sure I feel the guilt.”

A recent survey by the American Kennel Club found that 58% of dog owners report their dogs avoid them after bath time. The numbers do not lie. Dogs everywhere have mastered the art of the disappearing act.

Avoidance Tactic

Percentage of Dogs (%)

Hides under furniture

35

Refuses eye contact

28

Leaves the room

22

Ignores the owner entirely

15

Lookipet recommends a peace offering. A personalized, handmade pet gift can lure even the most stubborn pup out of hiding. Dogs cannot resist a new toy with their name on it!

Sulking

Sulking takes bath-time drama to the next level. Dogs do not just avoid. They pout. They flop down in the hallway, sigh loudly, and shoot their owners the saddest puppy eyes in the business. Some even refuse their favorite treats. One Lookipet customer, Mike, said,

“After a bath, Bella acts like I ruined her whole week. She sighs, stares at the wall, and ignores her Lookipet pet gifts. I have to beg for forgiveness!”

Dogs know how to milk the moment. They want everyone to know they suffered. The drama can last for hours. Sometimes, it takes a special treat or a new Lookipet toy to break the spell.

Top Sulking Signs:

  • Heavy sighs (the louder, the better)
  • Refusing cuddles
  • Ignoring treats
  • Staring into the distance like a soap opera star

Tip: Owners can turn bath time into bonding time. Offer a Lookipet personalized pet gift right after the bath. Dogs forgive faster when they get a surprise!

Bath time drama proves that dogs have a flair for the theatrical. They hold grudges, but they also love a good apology—especially if it comes wrapped in a handmade Lookipet pet gift. 🛁🐾

Rivalry

Bed Sabotage

Dogs love a good rivalry. Nothing says “I’m the boss” like a sneaky act of bed sabotage. Many dogs see the family bed as the ultimate prize. When another pet tries to claim it, the drama begins. Owners often wake up to find one dog sprawled across the bed, while the other sulks on the floor. The battle for the best sleeping spot can get intense.

Sibling Pets

Sibling pets turn bedtime into a comedy show. Dogs with furry brothers or sisters know how to stir up trouble. One Lookipet customer, Jenny, shared,

“My two dogs, Max and Luna, play musical beds every night. Max waits until Luna falls asleep, then he nudges her off the bed and takes her spot. Luna gives him the stink-eye and steals his Lookipet toy in revenge.”

Sibling rivalry often leads to hilarious scenes:

  • One dog claims the bed, the other plots payback.
  • Sneaky swaps happen at midnight.
  • Blankets get dragged across the room.
  • The loser ends up with the world’s tiniest dog bed.

A recent survey by the American Pet Products Association found that 54% of multi-dog households report nightly bed battles. Dogs do not just want comfort. They want victory.

Bed Sabotage Tactic

Percentage of Dogs (%)

Stealing the main bed

38

Pushing the sibling off

27

Hiding the favorite toy

19

Blocking access

16

Lookipet’s handmade, personalized pet gifts often become the center of these battles. Dogs love to show off their custom toys, especially when a sibling wants it too.

Jealousy

Jealousy turns even the sweetest pup into a master of mischief. Dogs notice when another pet gets extra attention or a new Lookipet gift. The green-eyed monster appears, and so does the bed sabotage.

  • Bella, a golden retriever, once dragged her owner’s slippers onto the bed and refused to move. Her brother, Charlie, watched in horror as his favorite spot disappeared under a pile of slippers and Lookipet toys.
  • Some dogs wait until their sibling leaves the room, then claim the bed and roll around, leaving their scent everywhere. The message? “This is mine now.”

Tip: Owners can reduce rivalry by giving each dog a personalized Lookipet pet gift. Dogs love having something special with their name on it.

Dogs may not write revenge notes, but their actions speak loudly. Bed sabotage shows just how clever—and petty—dogs can be. The next time a dog claims the bed, remember: it’s not just about comfort. It’s about winning the great sibling rivalry, one nap at a time. 🛏️🐾

More Funny Tales

Food Stealing

Dogs see food as treasure. Many owners have watched their furry friends turn into sneaky bandits at mealtime. Some dogs wait for the perfect moment. They strike when backs turn or when someone laughs at a joke. One second, a sandwich sits on the table. Next, it vanishes. The dog sits nearby, licking his lips and pretending nothing happened.

Owner reports show that food preparation does not always make dogs jump or act wild. Nearly 70% of owners say their dogs rarely or never jump up when food gets prepared. Still, the real action happens during meals. Dogs love to steal food from tables or even from under the table. Some dogs beg with big, sad eyes. Others use stealth. They wait for a dropped crumb or a distracted human.

  • Owners often struggle to control food intake because of sneaky stealing or begging.
  • Many households have more than one person feeding the dog, which leads to extra snacks.
  • Dogs grab food from tables, counters, or even plates left unattended.
  • Some owners try feeding calendars or assign one person to feed the dog, but the dog always finds a way.
  • Emotional attachment makes it hard to ignore begging, so treats keep coming.
  • Owners say dogs need more monitoring than cats when it comes to food.
  • Some call their dogs "big boned" or "chubby" instead of admitting they love snacks.

Food Stealing Scenario

Percentage of Owners (%)

Steals from the table

42

Begs during meals

33

Gets extra food from family

18

Uses stealth to grab snacks

7

Tip: Lookipet recommends keeping pet gifts handy during meals. A personalized toy can distract even the sneakiest food thief!

Messy Payback

Dogs do not just steal food. They also know how to make a mess when they feel wronged. Some dogs knock over trash cans. Others drag laundry across the house. One Lookipet fan shared,

"My dog, Buster, once shredded a whole roll of toilet paper after I left him home alone. He looked so proud of his masterpiece!"

Messy payback comes in many forms:

  • Spilled water bowls
  • Torn-up pillows
  • Muddy paw prints on clean floors
  • Chewed-up mail

Dogs seem to know when their humans need a little chaos. They wait for a big event, like a Zoom call or a dinner party. Then, they strike with perfect timing. Owners laugh, groan, and reach for the camera. Messy payback keeps life interesting.

Note: Lookipet’s handmade pet gifts can help redirect a dog’s energy. A new toy gives them something fun to chew, besides the mail!

Reader Stories

Every dog owner has a story about petty revenge. Some tales make people laugh until they cry. Others leave owners shaking their heads in disbelief. Lookipet loves hearing these stories!

  • Did your dog hide your keys before work?
  • Did he steal your pizza slice when you blinked?
  • Did she cover your bed in muddy paw prints after a rainy walk?

Share your funniest dog revenge story in the comments below! The best stories might get featured in a future Lookipet blog post. 🐶✨

Callout: Dogs hold grudges in the most creative ways. Owners everywhere have proof. Tell your story and join the Lookipet club of proud, slightly embarrassed, dog parents!

Why Dogs Act This Way

Emotional Intelligence

Dogs have a secret superpower: emotional intelligence. Scientists say dogs feel excitement, fear, distress, and affection, just like a toddler who has just discovered chocolate. Dogs do not plot revenge like movie villains, but they do remember how things made them feel. When a dog gives the side-eye after a missed walk, he is not holding a grudge in the human sense. He is simply reacting with his heart (and maybe his stomach).

A study by Lo and Roberts (2019) found that dogs have something called episodic memory. This means they can remember what happened and how it made them feel. For example, if a dog gets a bath and then receives a Lookipet pet gift, he might forgive the bath faster. If he gets a bath and no treat, he might avoid the bathroom for a week. Dogs also use associative memory. They link smells, sounds, and sights to emotions. The sound of the treat jar? Pure joy. The sight of the bathtub? Pure drama.

Dogs act out because they feel, not because they plot. Their emotional intelligence helps them remember who gave them the best belly rubs—and who forgot their birthday.

Emotion

Dog Behavior Example

Owner Reaction

Excitement

Zoomies after a treat

Laugh and film it

Distress

Hiding after a bath

Offer pet gifts

Affection

Snuggling on the couch

Melt into a puddle

Fear

Avoiding the vacuum cleaner

Hide with the dog

Social Memory

Dogs have better memories than most people think. They remember faces, routines, and even the sound of the mail carrier’s footsteps. Social memory helps dogs decide who gets a tail wag and who gets the cold shoulder. When a dog remembers that Aunt Linda always brings Lookipet pet gifts, he greets her with a happy dance. When he remembers that Uncle Bob once stepped on his tail, he might hide under the table.

Dogs Hold Grudges—or so it seems. In reality, dogs use social memory to protect themselves and seek out the best experiences. They do not stew over old arguments, but they do remember who made them feel good (or bad). This explains why some dogs avoid certain people or places after a negative event. It is not revenge. It is smart survival.

Tip: Want to get back on your dog’s good side? Try a personalized, handmade Lookipet pet gift. Dogs never forget a thoughtful surprise!

Social Memory Trigger

Dog’s Reaction

Owner’s Move

Visitor with treats

Happy tail wags

Invite them often

Loud thunderstorm

Hiding under the bed

Cuddle and comfort

Missed walk

Ignoring owner

Apologize with a pet gift

New Lookipet toy

Instant forgiveness

Celebrate together

Dogs may not hold grudges like humans, but their emotional intelligence and social memory make every day an adventure. Owners who understand this can turn drama into laughter—and maybe earn a few extra cuddles along the way.

Handling Grudges

Training Tips

Dog owners everywhere face the classic grudge: the cold shoulder, the missing shoe, the dramatic sigh. Lookipet knows every dog has a flair for drama, but a little training can turn those grudges into giggles.

Here are some tips that even the most stubborn pup can’t resist:

  1. Reward Good Behavior
    Dogs love treats, belly rubs, and Lookipet pet gifts. When a dog forgives quickly, reward him with a personalized toy. He will forget the grudge and remember the fun.
  2. Stay Consistent
    Dogs thrive on routine. If an owner always gives a treat after bath time, the dog might start to look forward to the tub. Consistency builds trust and reduces drama.
  3. Redirect the Drama
    When a dog starts sulking, offer a distraction. A new Lookipet toy or a quick game of fetch can break the spell. Dogs love surprises, especially when they come with their name on them.
  4. Use Positive Reinforcement
    Studies from the American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior show that positive reinforcement works better than punishment. Dogs respond to praise and treats, not scolding.

Tip: Keep a stash of Lookipet pet gifts handy. A surprise toy can turn a grumpy pup into a happy one in seconds!

Training Success Rates by Method

Training Method

Success Rate (%)

Positive Reinforcement

85

Consistency

78

Distraction/Redirection

72

Punishment

30

Source: American Veterinary Society of Animal Behavior, 2023

Keeping It Light

Dogs know how to hold a grudge, but they also know how to forgive—especially when laughter fills the room. Owners who keep things light find that drama melts away faster than a treat in a hungry pup’s mouth.

  • Laugh It Off
    When a dog hides a shoe or ignores a command, owners can choose to laugh. Dogs pick up on moods. A happy owner means a happy dog.
  • Tell a Story
    Share the latest grudge tale with friends or online. Lookipet fans love swapping stories about dramatic pups. The more outrageous, the better!
  • Celebrate the Quirks
    Every dog has a unique personality. Some sulk, some sigh, some stage Oscar-worthy exits. Owners who embrace the quirks enjoy every moment, even the messy ones.

“My dog once hid my Lookipet pet gifts in the laundry basket. I found them next to my missing sock. He looked so proud, I had to give him a treat!” – Lookipet customer

Grudge-Busting Checklist:

  • Keep treats and toys ready
  • Use humor to defuse drama
  • Share funny stories
  • Celebrate every silly moment

Lookipet believes that every grudge is just another chance to laugh, bond, and spoil a pup with a handmade, personalized pet gift. Life with dogs stays fun when owners keep it light and playful. 🐾

Dogs Hold Grudges, but each grudge is funny in its way. Lookipet notices dogs make lost shoes and dramatic exits into jokes. Owners see their dogs sulk, pout, then forgive after a treat. These times show how dogs remember, feel, and even pretend a little. Enjoy every silly grudge and tell your best story. Life with dogs is always exciting, especially with a special pet gift from Lookipet! 🐾

FAQ

Do dogs hold grudges like people do?

Dogs remember slights, but they do not plot like movie villains. They react with feelings, not secret plans. Lookipet’s experts say a treat or a handmade pet gift usually melts away any “grudge” faster than you can say “walkies!”

Why does my dog hide my shoes after I skip his walk?

He wants you to know he noticed! Shoe hiding is classic dog payback. According to the American Pet Products Association, 62% of owners report shoe sabotage. Dogs love drama—and the smell of your sneakers.

Sabotage Type

% of Dogs

Shoe hiding

62

Sock stealing

48

Can a personalized Lookipet pet gift stop my dog’s petty revenge?

Absolutely! Dogs adore gifts made just for them. Lookipet’s handmade, custom toys distract even the sulkiest pup. Many owners report instant forgiveness—sometimes with bonus tail wags.

Tip: A personalized toy works better than an apology letter. Dogs can’t read, but they love surprises!

Why does my dog ignore me after bath time?

He feels betrayed! Many dogs sulk or avoid eye contact after a bath. The American Kennel Club says 58% of dogs avoid their owners post-bath. A Lookipet treat or toy helps win back trust (and maybe a soggy cuddle).

Is my dog jealous of other pets’ gifts?

Yes! Dogs notice when a sibling gets a new toy. Jealousy sparks bed sabotage and dramatic sighs. Lookipet recommends giving each pet a personalized gift. Peace returns, and the rivalry turns into a comedy show.

How can I make my dog forgive me faster?

Try laughter, treats, and a handmade Lookipet pet gift. Dogs respond to positive vibes and surprises. A quick game or a new toy erases most grudges. Remember, snacks work wonders!

Do dogs remember who gave them the best gifts?

They sure do! Dogs have strong social memory. A study by Lo and Roberts (2019) found that dogs remember people linked to good experiences. Bring a Lookipet gift, and you become their favorite human—guaranteed.

🎁 Dogs never forget a great gift. Neither do their owners!