A recent Instagram video has captured the hearts—and the laughter—of dog lovers everywhere. Featuring a Labrador named Mabel and her unexpected encounter with a crayfish, the clip has gone viral for all the right reasons. The hilarious footage, which has garnered over 689,000 views and 80,000 likes at the time of writing, showcases just how unpredictable and expressive our four-legged friends can be when faced with something new. For anyone interested in dog behavior, animal reactions, or simply a good chuckle, this video is a delightful watch.
The video was originally shared on the Instagram account @dognamedstella and includes both Labradors Stella and Mabel. However, it’s Mabel who steals the show. According to the caption, this amusing interaction took place about a year ago, but it continues to entertain viewers today. The setting is a peaceful dock, where the dogs are spending time with a group of three humans, likely friends or family of the owner. It’s a serene moment—until a crayfish enters the scene.
As one of the individuals approaches Mabel with the sea creature, her reaction is immediate and unmistakable. Clearly not a fan of crustaceans, Mabel recoils, visibly disturbed by the crayfish’s pointy claws. The video captures her stepping backward, shaking her head, flapping her ears, and even appearing to growl. The slo-mo shots emphasize her discomfort and add a layer of comedic timing that viewers have found irresistible. The combination of canine expressions and human reactions makes this a memorable entry in the growing genre of funny dog videos.
In the comments section, viewers were quick to share their amusement and affection. One user wrote, “Judging from her reaction, it wasn’t a pleasant first encounter.” Another chimed in with, “So that’s a hard no on the crawfish for Mabel.” These responses reflect the common sentiment: while Mabel may not have enjoyed her introduction to marine life, her expressive reaction has brought joy to thousands.
What makes this video particularly engaging is the contrast between Mabel’s usual behavior and her response to the crayfish. One commenter noted that Mabel is known for her boldness, even claiming she “tears trees down by eating them raw,” making her sudden fear of a small sea creature all the more amusing. It’s a reminder that even the most confident dogs can have unexpected phobias or dislikes, and that these moments often reveal their most endearing traits.
Stella, Mabel’s fellow Labrador, remains largely in the background during the clip, leading some viewers to compare the two dogs. While Mabel’s dramatic retreat has earned her the spotlight, Stella’s calm demeanor provides a subtle counterbalance. This dynamic between the two pets adds another layer of charm to the video, showing how different personalities can exist even among the same breed.
From a behavioral standpoint, Mabel’s reaction is not unusual. Dogs often respond to unfamiliar animals with caution or fear, especially when those animals look or move in unexpected ways. Crayfish, with their clawed limbs and jerky movements, can easily be perceived as a threat. Mabel’s instinct to back away and vocalize her discomfort is a natural response, one that many pet owners will recognize from their own experiences.
I found this detail striking: the video’s popularity lies not just in its humor, but in its relatability. Anyone who has ever introduced their dog to something new—be it a vacuum cleaner, a snowman, or a harmless insect—can empathize with Mabel’s reaction. It’s these shared moments of surprise and emotion that create a sense of connection between pet owners around the world.
Social media has become a powerful platform for sharing such moments, turning everyday interactions into viral sensations. Videos like this one not only entertain but also foster a sense of community among animal lovers. They remind us that pets, like people, have unique personalities and preferences. Mabel’s aversion to crayfish may be specific, but it’s a part of a broader tapestry of pet behavior that continues to fascinate and amuse.
As the video continues to circulate, Mabel is gaining a fan base of her own. Her expressive face and dramatic response have inspired a wave of affectionate comments and playful banter. While she may not have enjoyed her first meeting with a sea creature, she has certainly made a lasting impression. And for viewers, the video offers a light-hearted break—a brief moment of joy in the form of a Labrador’s honest reaction to the unexpected.
