Every evening without fail, Ryba, a 4-year-old Afghan hound, wraps her furry paws around her owner in an affectionate embrace—no commands needed. What started as a simple trick has blossomed into a heartwarming routine that brings daily joy to dog trainer Katerina Spasibo, 40, of St. Petersburg, Russia.
“She came up with this routine herself,” Katerina said. “At first, it was just a trick, but now it happens every evening without fail.”
Katerina, who founded her own dog training school, initially taught Ryba the “hug” command just for fun. But the affectionate pup quickly took matters into her own paws—or rather, her own heart. “She can even hug other people on command,” Katerina added.
Ryba, whose name fittingly means “fish” in Russian, has been Katerina’s loyal companion since she was a tiny puppy. A regular at the training school, Ryba not only keeps her owner company but also plays a crucial role in helping socialize other dogs, proving that her talents extend far beyond a charming hug.
Despite her special bond with Katerina, Ryba is far from clingy. “She loves me, but she doesn’t have an anxious attachment,” Katerina explained. “She’s very self-sufficient.” Sharing her home with a husky, a cat, and a revolving door of visiting dogs, Ryba fits seamlessly into the bustling, furry household.
“Ryba enjoys both quiet time and noisy company,” Katerina said, describing her four-legged friend’s balanced nature. “She’s great at finding the balance between being graceful and occasionally goofing around.”
Whether she’s acting like a poised show dog or a playful clown, Ryba’s hugs—and her vibrant spirit—never fail to brighten the day. “And every time, it just makes me smile,” Katerina said with a grin.