When it comes to birthday surprises, everyone knows the two that top the list: vacations and puppies.

Obviously, puppies are for life, and you should only ever present them to a family member as a gift if you know they have the time, commitment and love to dedicate to them. And here’s another tip: make sure to film the birthday boy or girl in question, because their reaction is bound to produce viral-worthy content!

That’s exactly what happened with one man named Doug, whose reaction of utter surprise when he discovered he’d been gifted with a puppy was filmed and put online.

On the day of his 46^th birthday, Doug’s wife takes him into one of their rooms, which has a small wooden box in it. Doug, bless him, initially thinks that the box itself is the gift. He asks, “Oh, there’s something inside there?” and his wife laughs and says, “Yes, I’m not just giving you the box. I’m taking the box back, honey.”

This must only go to confuse Doug even more. He dutifully gets to opening the box, probably wondering what on earth could be inside there.

Even when he pulls out the two items – a small collar and a picture frame – we can tell he hasn’t yet connected the dots. He’s clearly made up with the gifts, saying, “Cool! Oh, my God.” He must be very easily pleased, as he’s already acting like a little kid in a sweet shop!

Doug reads from the name tag on the collar, which has the name “Stella” and Doug’s phone number on it. He then takes a good look at the picture, which shows Doug’s wife and step-daughter, holding a 3-week-old golden retriever.

Things finally seem to be getting through to him, and the bemused dad looks up at the camera with his mouth agape.

“That’s Stella!” his wife prompts him, and finally, Doug’s face lights up with understanding. Perhaps he just didn’t want to believe it was true – but then Stella is in front of him in real life, and there’s no denying what is happening!

Doug’s step-son carries little Stella, a sweet, chubby golden retriever pup, over to Doug. He carefully transfers Stella into Doug’s arms, and the poor guy still looks confused. He can only say“Stella” over and over again, like he can’t quite believe his luck.

Stella wags her tail happily and immediately nuzzles up to Doug.

His wife says, “I think she likes you, Doug.” She’s right – after less than a minute together, the pair already have an adorable bond. Stella even offers Doug a few licks, which everyone knows is a dog’s way of giving their owner the seal of approval.

It’s truly heart-warming to see how blown away Doug is by his birthday gift. He cuddles Stella close to his chest, and his face saysall we needed to know: this is the start of an incredible journey of love and happiness.

Now a few years down the line, we’re sure Doug and his family continue to look back on this documentation of such a joyful moment even today.

Watch the full video below to watch the surprise gifting and Doug’s priceless reaction!

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Source: YouTube/ tvanlieshout