For two years, this toddler and dog watched the world together—until one morning changed everything

Every parent knows the power of routine. Whether it’s bedtime stories, morning cuddles, or a daily walk to the park, these small traditions bring comfort and connection. 

For one family, a simple morning ritual between their toddler and beloved Bernese mountain dog, Ivy, became a heartwarming story that captured the internet’s attention—but it also highlights something deeper about the importance of childhood routines.

A window to the world

For two years, Ivy and her little human sister started each morning the same way: sitting on the couch together, staring out the window. From their favorite perch, they watched the world go by—cars passing, weather changing, and their mom coming and going from work. It was their quiet time, their tradition.

In a now-viral TikTok video shared by Ivy’s family (@ivytheberner), viewers watched a touching montage of this daily ritual. The clip begins with scenes from 2023: a tiny toddler leaning against her 100-pound best friend, gazing outside. As the months pass, she grows bigger, learns to wave goodbye, and Ivy remains by her side through every season. The video has since gained 1.1 million views, proving just how much the internet loves a good dog-and-baby friendship.

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A big move—and an even bigger surprise

But as life does, things change. In May 2024, the family’s home was put up for sale. Soon, the couch—their special spot—was gone. In one heartbreaking shot, Ivy lays on the bare floor, waiting as movers pack up their things. The toddler, now sturdy on her feet, still watches out the window, holding onto their tradition for as long as she can.

The story doesn’t end there, though. A few scenes later, viewers see Ivy and her little sister in their new home, sitting by another window—same couch, same bond, different place. But this time, there’s an addition: a newborn baby snuggled between them.

As the video caption says, while “some things stay the same,” there was a “really big surprise” to come. The little girl, now a big sister, lovingly keeps an arm around the new baby, while Ivy, ever watchful, keeps an eye on them both.

@ivytheberner ♬ Love Story – TonsTone

The internet reacts: ‘I went from crying to laughing to crying…”

The emotional rollercoaster of the video hit TikTok users hard. One commenter @Bro Chacho summed up what many were feeling: “I went from crying to laughing to crying to laughing to WEEPING at the end. Not her whispering to her baby sister 😭.” @user7583404554817 called it “…the happiest video on earth,” while @sunpixie joked, “Did I just watch a Disney short movie?”

Ivy’s owner also shared a heartfelt reflection on Instagram (@ivyberner):

“Every morning, while I get ready for work, Ivy and my daughter sit together, watching the world outside. It’s their quiet time, part of the rhythm of our day. After two years of this, it’s tough to leave the old house and the lifelong friends we made on that street, but we’re excited for what’s ahead. A new home, and a new baby to add to the mix. These simple moments remind us how much things change—and how much they stay the same.”

Related: Couple introduces Labrador to their newborn—and is stunned by his reaction

Why these little traditions matter—and how they help kids adjust to change

While this story is heartwarming on its own, it also highlights something important: routines provide security, especially for little ones navigating big life transitions.

Why do these small rituals matter so much? Research shows that predictable routines can help children feel safe and regulate emotions during uncertain times.

Research indicates that predictable routines are essential for children’s emotional development. A systematic review published in the Journal of Family Theory & Review found that consistent routines positively impact children’s self-regulation and emotional stability, especially in high-risk situations.

Additionally, the National Association for the Education of Young Children emphasizes that predictable routines help children feel safe and provide a sense of mastery over their environment. 

These findings underscore the importance of maintaining consistent rituals to support children’s emotional well-being during times of change.

Moving to a new home or welcoming a sibling can be an emotional rollercoaster for a young child, but keeping small traditions intact—like Ivy and her toddler’s morning routine—can provide much-needed stability.

How parents can create comforting rituals of their own:

• Find a small daily tradition you can share, whether it’s a silly handshake, a favorite breakfast routine, or a cozy reading corner.
• Keep certain rituals consistent, even when big changes happen (a new home, a new baby, a new school).
• Let your child take ownership—whether it’s picking the morning song or choosing a ‘special spot’ like Ivy’s couch perch.

For this family, one thing is clear: no matter where life takes them, Ivy and her girls will always have their window to the world. And for parents, it’s a reminder that even the simplest moments—morning cuddles, a shared glance, a whispered secret—can be the anchors that help our children feel safe and loved.