Former reality TV star Kate Gosselin is opening up about a deeply emotional struggle involving her newly adopted rescue dog, and her candid TikTok video has struck a chord with many viewers online.
The former Jon & Kate Plus 8 star recently broke down in tears while talking about the stress and exhaustion that have come with adopting a Malinois mix named Koda. In the now-viral TikTok update, Gosselin admitted that the adjustment period has been much harder than she expected, especially while managing another dog in the household at the same time.
Why Is Kate Gosselin Struggling With the Dog Adoption?
According to reports from People, Page Six, and Parade, Gosselin shared that she had been “crying” and feeling emotionally drained during the first couple of weeks after bringing Koda home. The dog, a high-energy Malinois mix, has reportedly required constant supervision and attention.
In her TikTok, Gosselin explained that she has been “on watch constantly,” worrying about possible incidents between Koda and her German Shepherd, Meika. She described Koda as having a “humongous personality” and seemingly endless energy, something that has proven difficult to manage day-to-day.
The 51-year-old reality star also reflected on how different life feels now compared to when she was younger. While acknowledging that she once raised eight children, Gosselin admitted that handling an energetic rescue dog at this stage in her life has become physically and emotionally overwhelming.
Gosselin Opens Up About the Emotional Toll
One of the most emotional moments in Gosselin’s TikTok reportedly involved damage caused by Koda to a sentimental dog bed that belonged to her late dog, Nanuq. The loss hit her especially hard because Nanuq passed away unexpectedly in late 2025, something Gosselin had previously spoken about publicly.
She explained that seeing the cherished item destroyed added another layer of grief and stress during an already difficult transition period. Despite becoming emotional on camera, Gosselin also made it clear that she remains committed to helping Koda adjust to her new home.
Reports also noted that Gosselin and her boyfriend, Steve Neild, understood that adopting a rescue dog — particularly a breed known for high energy and intelligence — would require patience and extensive training. She reportedly said that formal training sessions for Koda are expected to begin soon.
What Kind of Dog Did Kate Gosselin Adopt?
Koda is reportedly a Malinois mix rescue dog. Belgian Malinois dogs are widely known for their intelligence, athleticism, and intense energy levels. They are often used in police and military work because they require constant stimulation, training, and activity.
That high-energy temperament appears to be a major reason behind the difficulties Gosselin described online. In her TikTok, she said Koda could “run forever” and has become highly obsessed with her ball, making supervision almost nonstop.
Fans Rally Around Gosselin After Tearful Video
Despite the emotional breakdown, many viewers reportedly flooded the comments section with supportive messages. Several fans praised Gosselin for being honest about the realities of rescue dog adoption instead of pretending everything was easy.
Others compared the early adjustment period with a rescue dog to caring for a newborn, encouraging her to give herself grace while Koda adapts to the home.
For now, Gosselin appears determined to continue working through the challenges, even as she openly admits the process has tested her emotionally and physically.
