Dogs can be trained to do a whole range of impressive things, such as empty the dishwasher and detect allergens in food. One, however, has taken to Irish dancing, according to a recent Instagram clip.
In the video posted by @wigglebuttbutters in December, a miniature American shepherd dog named Butters can be seen tapping his front feet on the floor, apparently imitating Irish dancing, made globally famous by 'Lord of the Dance' Michael Flatley.
"When you're trying to throw the frisbee but your dog wants to Irish dance instead," says the video. His bio says Butters is a mini American shepherd dog, a breed that is described as "true herders" by the American Kennel Club (AKC).
"Minis are bright, self-motivated workers and endearingly loyal and lively companion dogs who have an affinity for horses," adds the AKC. "The Miniature American Shepherd shares many physical traits with its forebear the Australian Shepherd, only on a smaller scale. Females stand between 13 and 17 inches at the shoulder; males range from 14 to 18 inches."
Miniature American shepherd dogs closely resemble their cousins, the Australian shepherd. They were initially bred from Australian shepherds, selectively chosen to create a smaller breed.
The AKC adds: "The new breed was originally called the Miniature Australian Shepherd. 'They became especially popular with equestrians traveling to horse shows, as their intelligence, loyalty, and size made them an excellent travel companion,' the experts at the Miniature American Shepherd Club of the USA say."
As working dogs, American shepherds need plenty of regular exercise to keep them happy and healthy.
"These are smart, athletic dogs that need mental and physical challenges to keep them happy and healthy," says The Spruce Pets. "Otherwise, they might develop problem behaviors, such as excessive barking and unwanted chewing.
"Plan on at least one to two hours of exercise per day via walks, jogging, hikes, and playtime. They prefer to be active with their humans rather than being left to their own devices."
"That dance is top marks but those eyes!!!!! ahhhhh you're so beautiful xxx," commented one user on Instagram.
"Little puppo is Irish at heart," wrote another user.
Newsweek has reached out to @wigglebuttbutters via Instagram for comment.
Do you have funny and adorable videos or pictures of your pet you want to share? Send them 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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Newsweek is committed to challenging conventional wisdom and finding connections in the search for common ground.
About the writer
Leonie Helm is a Newsweek Life Reporter and is based in London, UK. Her focus is reporting on all things ... Read more
