It has been over twelve years since the “Ultimate Dog Tease” video surfaced on YouTube, yet everyone would concur with me when I assert that it will never age.
This amusing clip was shared by the channel named Talking Animals, and until now, it has accumulated more than 208 million views.
The video went viral back in 2011, but it appears that each year brings an entirely new audience that discovers it and propels it to viral status once more.
“I totally forgot about this clip… a true classic. Five-year-old me used to giggle at this, and now, a decade later, it’s wonderful to see it again,” remarked one viewer.
Another commenter mentioned, “I have likely seen this video around 6 or 7 million times, and I still chuckle as if it’s the first time watching it. Has to be one of the most viewed and adored clips on YouTube.”
It all commenced with a Canadian actor and comic from Halifax, Nova Scotia, Andrew Grantham, who produced the viral clip, but the real star in this tale is undeniably the dog.
Introducing Clark… The Star Of The Ultimate Dog Prank
Clark Griswold is a Dutch Shepherd mix residing in Colorado, who, during the recording of the video, was a two-and-a-half-year-old puppy.
According to an interview with Paul Bradley Smith, Clark was saved by his parents, Jennifer and Marc, in September 2009 from Colorado Puppy Rescue. [1]
Jennifer instantly fell for the dog’s unique coat patterns and his exceptionally charming puppy grin. That day, a star was brought into the limelight, Clark G the dog, and the rest is, well… history.
Throughout his upbringing, Clark was spirited, playful, exceedingly determined, and he adored conversing. Recognizing his abilities and his very expressive facial gestures, his parents commenced filming him frequently, which ultimately led to the emergence of the viral clip.
In collaboration with Andrew, the talking animal aficionado, arguably “the finest video on the Internet” was produced, and it swiftly became a tremendous success.
In the footage, the owner is playing the ultimate trick on the dog while Andrew provides the voice-over for Clark.
The highlight of the clip is the pup’s sincere expressions and priceless responses to being taunted about bacon, steak, and chicken (his most adored snacks) being consumed by his owner.
The Ultimate Prank Narrative
The entire tale centers on food, naturally. Clark, being a massive foodie, simply couldn’t help but react to the phrases uttered by his owner.
Initially, it was bacon, and not just any bacon, but the apple variety… Clark’s favorite. However, dad consumed it.
Then, it was a large, succulent steak… but once more, dad ate it. How impolite, by the way… nothing for Clark.
And then the grand showcase… the chicken with cheese… and CAT treats. And, guess who indulged in them… A CAT. What an unfair situation! I’ve heard that Clark is still on the hunt for the cat that devoured his meal.
It’s truly difficult not to believe that Clark is the one conversing in the video and that the discussion is artificial. The expressions and the voice-over just blend so seamlessly. It’s hysterical.
Andrew crafted this video purely for amusement, but now he has been engaged in this for many years.
This footage also set the Guinness world record for the most viewed animal video on the platform, and it has since been circulated globally and highlighted on Good Morning America and other significant news platforms.
Both Andrew and Clark have surged to prominence. Clark even possesses his own Facebook page, ‘Clark G the Dog’, and an official merchandise store with his products.
A fraction of the proceeds from the sales goes to the Halifax SPCA and investigations into animal cruelty in Nova Scotia.
The marketing and fundraising director for the Nova Scotia SPCA, Dianne MacDougall, stated, “Andrew approached us at the SPCA intending to contribute in some manner to assist the animals in Nova Scotia.”
She also remarked, “Individuals like Andrew enable us to accomplish that mission. Without his support, we wouldn’t be able to persist.”
Needless to say, this amusing video has not only filled people’s hearts with laughter and joy worldwide, but it has also done significant good for the animal welfare community.
I am confident it will continue to make a positive impact in the future. Feel free to share the video with your friends and relatives and help disseminate the joy.