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By Lucy Notarantonio
Senior Reporter
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Footage of the moment a dog was scared by its owner dressed as a "demon dog" has gone viral.
In the TikTok video, elderly Labrador Ron is met at the door by a human on all fours in a black bear costume.
Over 3 million people have watched the video, shared by @rontendo64, and some users have admitted to feeling "scared" too.
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The popular video has racked up more than 245,000 likes, and you can watch it here.
At first, a viewer may think Ron is being playful as he is seen wagging his tail, but his body language suggests he's scared. He soon runs away when the "demon dog" moves toward him.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKR), it's important for dog owners to know what dog sounds mean to ensure they are on the same page as their companions.
Essentially, the higher the tail, the more assertive the dog. Dogs with their tails pointing down to the ground like Ron's or even tucked between their legs are often feeling fear and stress. Dogs with their tails held up like a flag feel confident, perhaps even aggressive.
One user called the video "cute" as they mistook Ron's posture for the play bow which is a dog's way of inviting another dog or companion to play.
However, the AKC states: "Consider a cowering dog that is hunched toward the ground. That's a sign of fear or stress. The dog may be trying to get away from something and the posture makes the dog appear smaller."
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It's clear some users think Ron is playing, one said: "aah she was a bit afraid but excited and wanted to play great."
Another commented: "Your dog just went into play bow - so cute."
The top comment has racked up over 12,000 comments, it said: "Not me being scared too."
Another wrote: "Not him trying to play with the demon dog."
A TikToker joked: "That dog said, you can have the house."
Other dog owners have suggested there would be serious repercussions if they were to try this with their own dogs.
One said: "If I do this to my German Shepards and chihuahuas, I'd be dead."
Another wrote: "I would never try this with my Aussie, he would rip my throat out."
Newsweek reached out to @rontendo64 for comment. We could not verify the details of the case.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them in to life@newsweek.com with some details about your best friend and they could appear in our Pet of the Week lineup.
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