Golden Retriever Adorable Panic in Central Park Wins Millions of Hearts Online

A golden retriever named Millie had a funny and heartwarming moment this week in Central Park, New York City. The video of her brief panic when she lost sight of her owner has gone viral online. It was shared on April 22, 2025, and has already been watched over 8.3 million times on Instagram.

Millie was out for a walk with her owner, Hayley Zukerberg. In the video, Millie can be seen walking on a path in the park. She looked happy and confident. She even carried her own leash in her mouth. Her tail was wagging, and she seemed to enjoy the lovely spring weather.

Hayley told Newsweek, “Millie just turned one, and she already thinks she’s a full-grown, independent woman.” But that confidence faded quickly. Just a few seconds into the walk, Millie stopped and looked around. She suddenly realized she had lost sight of her owner. Her playful body language changed. It looked like she got worried and confused.

Although Hayley was only about 20 feet behind her, Millie didn’t see her. The video showed the dog looking left and right in a little panic. It was clear she was trying to find her “mom.” The moment was short but very sweet. She quickly turned around and ran back toward her owner.

The Instagram clip was shared on the page @millieinthecity_. The text on the video read: “That 5 seconds of panic when you misplace Mom.” The post connected with many pet lovers. The funny and sweet reaction from Millie reminded people of kids who get lost in a supermarket.

One commenter, @ann_bella00, wrote: “POV: you lost your mom at the supermarket.” Another, @miko.garfields, joked: “That’s what you get for holding your own leash.”

Hayley explained that Millie has a big and funny personality. “She always likes to carry her own leash and walk like she owns the park,” she said. “I was filming her, and then she just stopped and turned around like, ‘Wait… wasn’t I with someone?’”

The video not only shows a funny side of Millie but also how deeply dogs love their owners. Even if they want to act grown-up, they still feel safe with their humans close by.

This is not the first time Millie has gone viral. Last year, when she was just 10 weeks old, she melted hearts during a rainy day walk. A woman drinking coffee in New York’s West Village spotted her. Millie’s owner, Owen, was holding an umbrella over the tiny pup to protect her from the rain. That sweet act also gained a lot of love on social media.

Millie lives in New York and often walks around the city with her leash in her mouth. Her adorable expressions and lively personality have made her a favorite online. Hayley said she feels happy when people fall in love with Millie just like she has.

In just a few days, Millie’s video has brought smiles to millions. It’s a simple reminder that even brave and bold pets have soft hearts. And sometimes, all it takes is five seconds to realize how much they love their humans.