When it comes to raising a puppy, patience is key—and so is a good sense of humor. That was certainly true for one dog owner trying to teach his German shepherd puppy, Milo, the word “no.” But Milo had other plans.
In a now-viral TikTok posted by @goodboymilo.gsd, Milo’s owner repeatedly says “no,” pointing his finger with determination. Milo, however, doesn’t seem interested in learning. Instead, he paws at his owner’s hand and gently nibbles his fingers, turning the lesson into a playful standoff.
The video is captioned, “The game continues, I definitely think I’m winning,” which sums up the moment perfectly.
How Much Can Dogs Really Understand?
Milo’s response might look like stubbornness, but it’s pretty normal for puppies. Research shows that dogs can understand between 15 and 200 words, depending on their training. Well-trained dogs usually pick up around 165 words, which is similar to a two-year-old child.
According to VCA Animal Hospitals, dogs don’t just react to tone or sound. They connect words to objects, people, actions, and consequences. With enough repetition, even the most playful dogs can become great listeners.
Some dogs learn even more. Chaser, a Border collie often called the world’s smartest dog, memorized over 1,000 words. That included specific toy names and commands arranged in sequence. Her skills came from years of dedicated training.
German shepherds like Milo are also known for their brains. They’re one of the top working breeds and often serve in police or military roles. But being smart doesn’t guarantee obedience—especially when you’re still a curious, energetic pup.
Social Media Swoons Over Milo
Since it was posted, Milo’s video has gained over 14,000 views and more than 1,200 likes. Viewers flooded the comments with laughs and praise for the pup’s bold behavior.
One user wrote, “Tbh if someone waved their finger in my face I wouldn’t like it either.” Others called Milo “a little rascal” and “too smart for his own good.”
It’s easy to see why people love it. Who could resist a cheeky German shepherd puppy standing his ground?
A Reminder for All Dog Parents
Milo’s behavior is more than just cute—it’s a reminder that training takes time. Every puppy learns at their own pace. Some grasp commands quickly. Others, like Milo, need more patience—and maybe a few extra treats.
If your pup acts more like a comedian than a student, don’t worry. The most determined learners often grow into the most responsive companions.
With consistency and care, even the sassiest puppy can turn into a well-trained dog.
