A woman’s viral video of the promise she has kept to her huge cane corso on his first birthday has melted hearts across the internet.
Hails (@hxhails), an online fitness coach, shared a video of her cradling her little pup; fast‑forward to now, she manages to haul the huge dog into her arms in the same way. The footage garnered over 14,900 likes and more than 75,500 views on TikTok.
“Since Diesal was an 8-month-old, he has always been the sweetest and most affectionateVelcro puppy. He loved to be held, cuddled and petted 24/7—he still does. He would always melt in my arms as a puppy, the first clip, when I carried him like a baby,” Hails told Newsweek.
The mom noticed him growing extremely fast, but made a promise she would keep picking him up, even if it meant training harder at the gym. Now at one, Diesal weighs 110lbs.
“I tested that promise out on his first birthday, and it’s safe to say I kept it and he was extremely happy,” she said.
How Big Cane Corsos Grow
Experts at Dogster say cane corsos are a large Italian mastiff breed known for their muscular build. Adults typically weigh between 100 and 120 pounds for males and 85 to 105 pounds for females, though some can reach up to 125 pounds, depending on genetics and activity level.
Their rapid early growth means many puppies hit 70 to 100 pounds by around 9 months, continuing to fill out until about 18 to 24 months old.
Why Some Dogs Love Being Picked Up
Whether dogs enjoy being lifted depends on personality, past experiences, and breed tendencies. Many affectionate or “Velcro” canines enjoy the closeness because it makes them feel safe and loved, especially if they were gently handled from puppyhood.
Picking big dogs up can be risky, and experts from Kinship advise watching for signs of tension, stiffening, or avoidance, since canines clearly communicate whether they are comfortable being held.
A relaxed body, soft eyes and calm posture are signs a dog enjoys being cradled.
Small breeds tend to be picked up more often, but large canines with strong bonds to their owners can also crave the physical closeness—even if the lifting itself is awkward due to their size.
TikTok Reacts
TikTok users were quick to flood the comments with love for the adorable tradition.
“The happy giggles coming from you did something to me,” shared one user.
“I said the same thing. ANYWAYS this is her currently holding me,” shared Bella, who attached an image of her hugging her pooch.
“He’s beautiful,” said Kay.
“Sweet baby! What a beautiful shiny coat!” posted another fan.
“They are the biggest cuddle bugs,” added a third dog lover.
“They are such big babies and they don’t realize how big they are. My dad’s cane knocks me down every single time,” added Lauren Douglas.
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