Narcoleptic Puppy Steals Hearts Online
A cocker spaniel puppy named Gösta has gained internet fame for his adorable tendency to fall asleep when excited.
Gösta, a cocker spaniel puppy, has become an internet sensation due to his diagnosis of narcolepsy and cataplexy, a rare neurological disorder causing sudden, uncontrollable sleep and loss of muscle control. The condition means Gösta often falls asleep unexpectedly, even when he is playing or enjoying a treat.
His owners began sharing videos of Gösta's sleepy episodes on social media, which quickly garnered widespread attention and affection from online users. Comments on platforms like TikTok expressed adoration for the puppy, with one user calling him "the best video I’ve ever seen in my whole life."
Cocker spaniels are often referred to as "merry cockers" due to their typically cheerful disposition. However, for Gösta, his naturally happy temperament has an unusual effect, often leading to sudden naps.
The puppy was first diagnosed with the condition at nine weeks old. According to his owners, the prognosis for Gösta is good, and dogs with narcolepsy can generally maintain an excellent quality of life. The shared videos capture Gösta falling asleep during walks, while receiving treats, and during playtime with other dogs, much to the delight of viewers.
