A group of golden retrievers has left TikTok users in stitches after their dramatic reaction to a trombone performance was caught on camera.
In a clip shared by user @5_shadesofgolden, a girl can be seen preparing to practice her trombone while her two golden retrievers sit nearby, watching intently.
At first, the dogs appear curious and attentive, sitting patiently as if waiting for a show. But the moment the first brassy note rings out, the mood shifts.
Startled by the sudden blast of sound, the dogs scramble to their feet, bark and retreat from the room. One runs off-camera while the other keeps a wary distance, unsure about the unfamiliar instrument.
TikTok users flocked to the comments to weigh in, with one declaring the video “The most golden retriever thing ever.”
Another added, “It’s the way the puppy sat down ready for the show, then thought ‘hell no’.”
“Please, they looked so excited followed by immediate terror,” a third user added.
Golden Retrievers
Golden retrievers are known for their friendly and sociable personalities, which may explain why they appeared eager to listen in.
According to WagBar’s Golden Retriever Complete Breed Guide, the breed combines “intelligence, gentleness and loyalty in a package that works well for many families.”
The guide also notes that golden retrievers are “naturally outgoing and friendly with people, including strangers,” traits that often make them seem unfazed by everyday household activity.
However, even the most easygoing dogs can be sensitive to sudden loud noises, with the American Kennel Club (AKC) warning that “Plenty of dogs are afraid of loud noises.”
The organization explains that “fear of loud noises is stressful for dogs and can limit activities they can enjoy,” pointing to fireworks, thunder and loud vehicles as common triggers.
In the case of the now-viral trombone performance, the sharp, resonant sound of the brass instrument may have caught the dogs off guard, particularly if they had never heard one before.
Creating Positive Associations
The AKC advises owners to help pets cope with unexpected noise by creating positive associations.
“You can also play recordings of scary noises at a low volume while you feed your dog, play favorite games or engage in any favorite activity,” the AKC suggests, gradually increasing the volume as the dog becomes more comfortable.
Golden retrievers were originally bred as working dogs with strong retrieving instincts and high energy levels, according to WagBar, which notes that they need both physical and mental stimulation to thrive.
But as this TikTok video shows, even a confident, people-loving breed can have a comedic moment of panic when confronted with an unexpected blast of brass.
As the video continues to circulate, viewers are celebrating the dogs’ exaggerated retreat as peak golden retriever behavior—equal parts enthusiastic and easily startled—turning an ordinary practice session into internet gold.
Newsweek has reached out to @5_shadesofgolden for comment via TikTok. We could not verify the details of the case.
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