Move over, ‘Mary Poppins’, Taco is in town.

When it comes to sibling bonds and built-in babysitters, few can rival the heartwarming tale of Taco, a devoted golden retriever, and his tiny human sidekick, Vanora. From midnight snacks to cheerleading first steps, this fluffy caretaker has redefined what it means to be a “big brother” — no babysitting certification required.

Since Vanora’s arrival, Taco has appointed himself her full-time guardian. Claudia Hughes, the duo’s mom, marveled at his instinct to protect. “When we would lay her down on the floor or on our bed, Taco would just lay down next to her,” Hughes said. Whether Vanora was napping or practicing tummy time, her furry sentinel never left his post — not even during late-night feedings.

Vanora and Taco. Photo by Claudia Hughes

When we would wake up in the middle of the night to feed her, (Taco) would be right there with us,” Hughes said.

But Taco’s job description expanded beyond cuddles and supervision. As Vanora grew, so did his joy for her milestones. The moment she gripped her crib railing to greet him each morning, Taco’s tail-wagging approval signaled his pride. Yet nothing compared to the day Vanora began exploring on two feet. “As soon as Vanora started taking some steps with a baby walker,” Hughes said, “Taco started getting super excited.” The pup’s reaction? A spectacle of joy. He’d bounce sideways like a spring-loaded toy, then dash in dizzying circles — his version of a standing ovation.

Of course, even the most excited of big brothers knows when to tap the brakes. Though Taco’s “zoomies” reached Olympic levels once Vanora walked independently, he carefully balanced his excitement with gentleness, the family said. “Taco would go and lick her, then go and have some zoomies, then come back and lick her again,” Hughes said. Translation: Celebrate, zoom, repeat — all without toppling his toddling sister.

Vanora and Taco. Photo by Claudia Hughes

The Hughes household isn’t just teaching Taco patience, though. Vanora is learning to reciprocate his kindness. “We have shown Vanora that we hug Taco, we pet him gently and that we give him kisses on his head,” Hughes said. “But, if we get mad at him, we don’t hit him.” The result? A duo who’s mastered teamwork, whether they’re playing hide-and-seek around the kitchen island or sharing slobbery kisses.

Reflecting on adopting Taco, Hughes never imagined how deeply he’d shape their family. “We felt like he could be the dog for our family and that he was going to be good to our future children,” Hughes said about the day she met Taco. “He is more than that. He’s always there.”