Some dogs like to get involved in everything, even if it’s clearly not a pet-friendly activity like decorating the house.
Bear, a German shepherd puppy, recently proved this when his owner shared what happened after he tried to “lend a paw to the house renovation,” as explained in the video caption.
The viral TikTok clip, posted by @fluffyboybear, has earned over 1 million views and nearly 40,000 likes. It begins with a shot of teal paint splattered across the floor at the bottom of a staircase. The camera then pans to show paw prints leading from the hallway, through the kitchen, and out into the backyard. When the door opens, Bear strolls in, his front leg covered in paint—clear evidence of his accidental mischief.
“He seems to be missing a sock,” joked one user. Another added: “Personally I like what he did with the place.”
A third commenter quipped: “You might as well just paint the rest of the floor and pretend it was intentional.” One viewer voiced concern, writing: “Please tell me that is water-based paint. I’d cry if my dog tracked oil-based paint through the house.”
The relieved owner replied: “It was indeed, thankfully.”
While Bear’s artistic streak amused the internet, veterinarians warn that paint and varnish exposure can be dangerous for pets.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, all paints and varnishes release fumes that may irritate a pet’s eyes and respiratory tract. Even a small amount of ingestion is risky if heavy metals, such as lead, are present. In severe cases, poisoning can be life-threatening—especially for young or pregnant animals.
Water-based (latex) paints usually cause mild stomach upset or skin irritation, but some contain small amounts of ethylene glycol, which in large doses can lead to neurological issues or kidney failure.
Whereas, oil-based paints and varnishes are more hazardous, containing solvents that irritate the skin and lungs and can cause vomiting, diarrhea, and breathing difficulties.
All paints and varnishes release fumes that may irritate a pet’s eyes and respiratory tract. Even a small amount of ingestion is risky if heavy metals, such as lead, are present. In severe cases, poisoning can be life-threatening—especially for young or pregnant animals.
If a pet is exposed, owners should contact a veterinarian and they should not induce vomiting; instead, rinse the mouth, offer water, and wash the fur with mild soap.
Bear may have earned laughs for his accidental art project, but his misadventure serves as a colorful reminder: home makeovers and pets don’t always mix.
Newsweek reached out to @fluffyboybear for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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