Owner Leaves Dog at Pet Hotel for the First Time-Then She Checks CCTV Feed
A dog labeled an “introvert” by his owner proved he didn't need the pack to have a good time after a hilarious CCTV moment revealed exactly how he handled his first stay at a dog hotel.
The owner, who runs the dog’s Instagram account @bichon_theodore, wrote in a March 16 video that this was the first and only time leaving Theo, a bichon frise, at a doggy hotel. The couple expected a stress-free weekend away from the dog, but the availability of live camera access and uncertainty about how he would cope, curiosity quickly got the best of them.
When checking the footage, any concerns about how Theo might be settling in instantly disappeared. He made himself right at home. Not necessarily with other dogs, but in his own way.
The CCTV camera captured the small dog had carved out a new role among the others: a teacher’s pet. While the rest of the canines ran together on the floor, burning off energy and playing, Theo could be seen perched comfortably on a staff member’s lap, observing the scene, as if he were supervising the room.
The moment quickly left the owners both relaxed and amused. They realized their dog wasn’t just adjusting to the new environment, but thriving, as he’s known to be an introvert. Rather than joining the chaos, Theo opted for one-on-one attention, soaking up affection and enjoying a front-row seat to the action.
For many dogs, being left somewhere new can be stressful, especially the first time. But Theo's reaction highlights how individual personalities can shape how dogs adapt to unfamiliar environments.
Newsweek reached out to @bichon_theodore via Instagram for additional information and comment.
Canine Attachment to Familiar Humans
Theo's behavior may look like he simply prefers humans over other dogs, but research suggests there's a deeper explanation rooted in canine attachment. According to a study published in PLOS One, dogs use their human caregivers as a "secure base," becoming more confident and willing to explore unfamiliar environments when a trusted person is present. In the study, dogs showed greater comfort and engagement when their owner was nearby, highlighting the importance of human presence in how they navigate new or uncertain situations.
That framework may help explain Theo's "teacher's pet" moment at the dog hotel. Rather than joining the group of unfamiliar dogs, he appeared to seek out close contact with a staff member, choosing comfort and reassurance over social play. Theo's behavior doesn't necessarily point to shyness or disinterest in other dogs-it may simply reflect a natural preference for staying close to a trusted human figure in an unfamiliar setting.
What Do the Comments Say?
With over 623,000 views and 157 comments as of Tuesday, the Instagram clip sparked a wave of amused reactions from viewers who related to Theo’s people-first behavior.
“My bichons are the same! They only like people,” wrote a pet parent.
Another added: “Smart boi! He is avoiding the drama.”
A third joked: “Playing Julius Caesar and watching his gladiators go at it.”
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This story was originally published April 14, 2026 at 4:58 PM.