Bartering might sound like an old-fashioned concept, but it’s still alive and well — and not just among humans! In simple terms, bartering means trading one item or service for another without using money. Merriam-Webster defines it as: “to trade by exchanging one commodity for another: to trade goods or services in exchange for other goods or services.” This way of trading goes way back — all the way to 6,000 B.C.! People still use it today when they swap things instead of paying cash. And as it turns out, one clever golden retriever named Sirius has caught on to the idea too.
A Clever Pup with a Plan
Sirius, a golden retriever, isn’t allowed to beg for food. That’s a house rule. But that doesn’t stop him from getting creative. Instead of begging, Sirius tries to make a deal with his mom. When he sees food on her plate that he really wants, he brings her things she likes in hopes of a trade. He’s basically thinking, “Maybe if I give her something she loves, she’ll share!”
He starts with something he knows she enjoys — a blanket. In fact, it’s the one she’s already using, but he gently takes it away and offers it up. It’s his first attempt at a trade.
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When One Thing Doesn’t Work, Try Another
The blanket doesn’t do the trick, so Sirius doesn’t give up. Next, he brings her the remote control — another item she uses a lot. From his doggy perspective, this is valuable stuff! Still, no luck.
He pauses to think things through, like a little furry negotiator, and takes off to find something better. He returns with not just one, but two dog leashes. Maybe he’s thinking she’d like to take him for a walk instead of eating?
Still, his mom doesn’t give in. So Sirius digs even deeper into his collection of possible trade items.
Desperate Times Call for Creative Trades
Determined more than ever, Sirius brings her a stuffed dinosaur and a grandma doll. Still no food. But this golden retriever is nothing if not committed. His final attempt? He runs off and comes back with her nausea medicine! Talk about pulling out all the stops.
After all that effort, Sirius does earn a tiny bite of her food. His mom still doesn’t want to encourage begging, but she admits that his version of bartering is just too adorable to say no to. The little pile of things he offered showed how hard he tried — and that he was seriously thinking about what she might like.
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@siriuslysalem If i dont make him lay on his bed, Sirius LOVES to bring me random objects to try and persuade me into giving him what i’m eating. Hes so cute I can’t handle it. #goldenretriever #christmastiktok ♬ original sound – SiriuslySalem
Toledo, United States.