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An 11-year-old Golden Retriever named Duke has found a loving home—and an enormous online following—thanks to his habit of carrying off everything from teapots to laundry baskets.

Kathy Hoyt and her husband, a Richmond couple who regularly adopt senior dogs through the Golden Retriever rescue organization GRREAT, welcomed Duke after losing their beloved 12-year-old Golden, Charlie.

Duke had endured a difficult series of transitions. His original owners divorced, and the person who kept him later died. A family member briefly cared for him but struggled with his unusual behavior. An adoptive family also returned him to the rescue for the same reason.

Duke exhibits resource guarding, becoming protective of objects he values. His chosen treasures are rarely ordinary dog toys. He has collected dishes, teapots, a lamp, a picture frame and even a laundry basket, often settling down to cuddle with the items.

A former foster caregiver, who had previously fostered 12 other animals, recalled Duke taking a computer bag—with the computer still inside—and bringing it to the sofa for a nap.

The Hoyts estimate that Duke gathers three to seven household objects each day and drags them to his bed, apparently for security. He sometimes growls when Kathy tries to retrieve something, so she has learned to exchange the object for a treat. His tendency to grab things from countertops has also encouraged the family to keep those surfaces clear.

Kathy initially recorded Duke’s behavior to show their veterinarian. After friends and relatives encouraged her to share the videos more widely, she created the Instagram account @lifewithduke2025. It had attracted 218,000 followers at last count and continued to grow.

The Hoyts have adapted to Duke’s unusual routine and now find it entertaining, particularly because he does not damage the objects he collects. Despite his eccentric taste in comfort items, they describe him as a loving dog with some interesting habits.