Camera catches dog 'teaching' baby how to jump

Alexis is new to the “jolly jumper” and is not quite sure what to do with it. Her dog, Day(kota) is keeping her company as they spend some time together in the doorway.
Due to their strong prey drive, some dogs imitate the behavior of foxes and pounce on their toys. In this case, Day begins pouncing on Ally’s shadow. As she jumps, Ally watches in glee.
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Little Ally might not have the jolly jumper all figured out, but she is enjoying her time in it while her playmate Day provides the entertainment.
Each time Day jumps into the air and lands on her front feet, Ally lets out a delighted laugh.
As Day continues to pounce on Ally’s shadow, the little girl seems to get the idea.
She pushes down with her tiny feet and launches herself into the air.
As Day leaps again, Ally begins to bounce in her jumper at the same time.
It looks for all the world like Day is “teaching” Ally to jump. And who’s to say she isn’t? After all, if the baby sees the dog spring into the air and decides to imitate the action, isn’t that tantamount to the teaching-learning relationship?
Even if the dog is doing what comes naturally to her, and the baby is simply bouncing from excitement, no one can deny that the two of them are having a good time!
What do you think? Is this beautiful dog just being, well, a dog? Or is she teaching her tiny human playmate to join in the fun? Tell us what you think in the comments!
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Resources Sabrina Sauve