African Porcupine Falls Head Over Quills for Bavarian Hound in Adorable Love Story originally appeared on Parade Pets.
Dogs have an uncanny ability to connect with almost anyone they meet. Not only do they win the hearts of humans, but they also have a way of capturing the affection of other creatures. While some pups make friends with horses and cows, this Bavarian Mountain Hound’s new companion is an African Crested Porcupine.
Though the thought of being in a relationship with a girl covered in sharp quills might raise some concerns, Rigby is taking it all in stride. Check out their ridiculously cute and rather unusual friendship in this video from June 15:
Penny, the affectionate African Crested Porcupine, clearly knows there’s nothing better than having a good dog to snuggle with. Their caretaker, Ruben, explains that although Rigby was initially a tad wary of her displays of affection, he’s since warmed to this new relationship.
Related: 30+ Hound Dog Breeds Who Make the Most Wonderful Companions
After all, who doesn’t love having a girlfriend who showers you with affection, gives you endless kisses, and ensures you never feel alone? This Bavarian Mountain Hound seems to understand that keeping his new lady happy is wise, especially when she’s always armed with quills.
According to the Central Florida Zoo & Botanical Gardens, African Crested Porcupines, like Penny, are the largest porcupine species in the world. Native to central and southern Africa, they are primarily nocturnal and have poor eyesight, relying on their keen sense of smell and hearing.
Despite the myth, they don’t shoot their quills when faced with danger, but stop short when running, causing predators to run into them. Penny, however, is clearly more of a lover than a fighter, and Rigby has learned that well.
People fell in love with this adorable couple. Viewer @mizzmoneyjane remarked, “I’m just here with misty eyes waiting on the wedding invite.”
Viewer @ralphrethmeyer shared, “Here in Germany, we have a saying: Love is never without pain, said the hare to the hedgehog and hugged him!” That’s fitting!
And @janetmiletti pointed out, “This dog has the best security & weapon.” That’s the truth!
To see more cross-species friendships at this animal sanctuary, check out this Meerkat named Jerry cuddling up to Tabby Cat Tewis.
🐶SIGN UP to get “pawsitivity” delivered right to your inbox with inspiring & entertaining stories about our furry & feathered friends🐾🐾
Unlikely friendships like this remind us that love and connection often bloom in the most unexpected places, even between a cautious Bavarian Mountain Hound and a cuddle-happy African Crested Porcupine.
African Porcupine Falls Head Over Quills for Bavarian Hound in Adorable Love Story first appeared on Parade Pets on Jun 21, 2025
This story was originally reported by Parade Pets on Jun 21, 2025, where it first appeared.