Local Man Mistaken for His Dog - Admits It’s Not the First Time

Callum Finnerty | Speacial Features Editor | Sutherland Shire Gazette

2 April 2025

A Sutherland Shire resident has been forced to accept an uncomfortable truth: he looks exactly like his dog.

The latest case of mistaken identity occurred along Cronulla’s Esplanade, where a well-meaning passerby bent down, scratched behind Greg’s ear, and cooed, “Who’s a good boy?” before realising their mistake.

“It was awkward for both of us,” Greg admitted. “But, honestly, it’s happened before. I don’t know whether to be offended or just lean into it.”

Witnesses say the resemblance is uncanny, with both Greg and Biscuit sporting identical curly golden locks, an enthusiastic trot, and what can only be described as “expressive eyes.”

According to animal behaviour expert Dr. Nigel Barkley, Senior Fellow in Human-Canine Behavioral Studies at Gymea TAFE, this is a textbook case of what researchers call ‘Canine Mirroring Syndrome’, a phenomenon where dog owners gradually take on the characteristics of their pets.

“Studies have shown that long-term dog ownership can influence human behaviour, posture, and even facial expressions,” Dr. Barkley explained. “Greg and Biscuit are a particularly extreme case. At this rate, we’d suggest keeping an eye out for tail development.”

“It’s the full package,” said local café owner Jess Mitchell. “The matching coats, the way they tilt their heads at the same time… I don’t even think Biscuit is the one copying.”

Greg insists the similarities are coincidental, though he has reluctantly cancelled his plans to buy a matching harness and vest. Meanwhile, Biscuit has been spotted staring wistfully at the front seat of Greg’s car, perhaps wondering when it’ll finally be his turn to drive.

Man mistaken for dog