Dogs In Anime: Furry Legends We Can’t Forget!

In Gintama, a dog the size of a small car bites people on the head as a hobby, and the show plays it as a running gag for years. That is anime for you, a medium that lets its dogs be gods, ninjas, hackers and, in one case, a second lieutenant in the army. Here are the anime dogs we can’t forget, from the ones that make you laugh to the ones that ruin you for a week.

Dogs in anime

Sadaharu from Gintama.

Sadaharu, the colossal yet endearing dog from Gintama, is a character who needs no introduction. From his humble beginnings as a stray, he quickly found a place among the misfit heroes of the series. His unwavering loyalty and unexpected moments of hilarity endeared him to fans around the world. Often affectionately nicknamed Wolf the Mask or Rogers by Granny Kagura, he lazes around the Yorozuya house but his hobbies extend to unique endeavours like biting heads and even serving as Kagura’s majestic mount in the anime openings.

Despite his colossal appearance, it’s easy to forget that Sadaharu is not an alien but a dog deity entrusted with overseeing Earth’s stream of altana. Sadaharu quickly becomes one of the series’ primary mascots & consistently proves to be a reliable ally, stepping up to help the family in times of need.

The 153rd episode of Gintama, has a fan club of its own. The bittersweet episode invokes a wild swing of feelings from sorrow to shock!

Jerry the dog becomes a part of the narrative as this touching tale unfolds alongside the show’s whimsical plot. Jerry, the devoted companion of a once-lonely young girl, but as time passes the dogs gets sidelined.

When financial hardships compels the girl’s family to abandon their dwelling, she leaves Jerry with the instruction to ‘wait’. Days morphed into months, while Jerry, ever-faithful, gradually faded with each fleeting moment.

The girl and her family settled in a distant town, but memories of Jerry lingered. She wondered if someone had taken him in and cared for him. Returning to the place where she last saw him…(remember Hachiko?) what happens next is one of anime’s wildest climaxes and has sprouted a stream of reaction videos from avid fans.

See also: Krypto, Superman’s best friend!

Ein from Cowboy Bebop

Ein, the genetically modified Welsh Corgi and member of the iconic Bebop crew. Ein may be pint-sized, but his intellect packs a punch. With a knack for hacking and an unbreakable bond with Spike, Ein proves that true heroism comes in all sizes.

Makkachin from Yuri on Ice

Makkachin, the beloved poodle of Victor Nikiforov in Yuri on Ice, is the reason Victor walks out on a competition. In episode 9, when Makkachin swallows a manju back in Japan, Victor flies home and leaves Yuuri to skate his free program without him. That tells you where the dog sits in his life. Victor naming him ‘Makkachin’ might have a color connection! Makkachin, a silver-beige hue, aligns with Victor’s hair shade. The name Makka can resemble mocha, and voila – a nod to a mochaccino, blending hues and flavors.

Akamaru from Naruto

In the high-octane world of ninjas, Akamaru stands out as more than just a loyal companion to Kiba. He grows up with the rest of the cast, and by Shippuden he is big enough for Kiba to ride into battle. Every pet parent who adopted a “small” pup knows that feeling.

Akamaru is a ninja dog and the loyal companion of Kiba Inuzuka in the hit anime series Naruto. He becomes more useful in battles when he grows bigger and stronger. He is not only a skilled fighter, but also a playful pal to Kiba and the rest of the gang.

Pakkun from Naruto

Pakkun is the smallest of Kakashi Hatake’s ninja dogs and easily the one with the most attitude. This diminutive, pug-like creature possesses exceptional tracking skills and the unique ability to communicate articulately and sarcastically.

Sporting brown fur, a dark brown snout and ears, and cute pink paws, Pakkun dons the standard attire of Kakashi’s ninken – a blue vest. Despite not being a combat-oriented ninken, Pakkun’s deep, gruff voice adds to his distinctive character. His unwavering loyalty to friends is unparalleled.

One amusing detail about Pakkun is his use of Floral Green shampoo, the same brand favoured by Sakura.The comical episode involves Sakura’s humorous distress at the idea of using the same shampoo as a dog.

Kakashi summons him whenever someone needs finding, and Pakkun gets it done with the air of a grumpy old uncle who was in the middle of a nap. Anime has bigger dogs. Very few have better lines.

Tetsuya #2 from Kuroko’s Basketball

Tetsuya #2, or Tetsuya Kuroko’s pet dog, is a fan-favorite in the popular sports anime Kuroko’s Basketball. He is a small, fluffy dog with a big personality and often accompanies Kuroko to his basketball games. Series followers cherish Tetsuya #2 for his comical responses, making him a recognized and beloved figure.

Tetsuya #2, the adorable pup, is a Pomsky (Pomeranian x Husky breed), explaining his compact size. No pure Huskies or Malamutes here, as they bulk up rapidly, unlike our little Tetsuya who stays delightfully pint-sized.

Black Hayate from Fullmetal Alchemist

Black Hayate, a well-trained and faithful canine, is the cherished companion of Riza Hawkeye in the anime masterpiece Fullmetal Alchemist. He accompanies Riza during her missions, showcasing his willingness to follow instructions.

Black Hayate is a “Second Lieutenant.” Dogs holding higher ranks than their handlers is a common practice in the military, aimed at preventing mistreatment of service dogs. This promotion is a sign of respect, and Black Hayate, known for detecting homunculi, rightfully receives officer status. Mistreat a dog that outranks you and, on paper at least, you are disobeying a senior officer.

Despite his small size, Black Hayate is a fierce protector and has even saved Riza’s life on multiple occasions.

Alexander the Pyr and Nina (Fullmetal Alchemist)

Alexander, a beloved Great Pyrenees dog, was Nina Tucker’s best friend in Fullmetal Alchemist. Despite being mostly white, Nina often added brown patches to his drawings. In both the manga and anime, Alexander joyfully greeted the Elric brothers, jumping on Edward despite Nina’s disapproval. Big and friendly, Alexander formed a heartwarming connection with Nina, keeping her company while her dad focused on alchemy.

Sadly, Shou Tucker fused Nina and Alexander into a talking Chimera to keep his alchemist license. This heartbreaking act led to a fierce confrontation with Edward, and the chimera calling Edward “onichan” moved him to tears. Alexander’s story is a heartbreaking example of companionship taking a tragic turn in the anime world.

Menchi from Excel Saga

Meet Menchi, the talking dog and faithful sidekick to Excel, the main character in Excel Saga anime. Menchi’s the go-to for laughs, always sassy and never shy about complaining about her owner’s wild antics. But here’s the twist: Menchi isn’t just there for giggles; she’s a key player in the series. In fact, she’s the only one who can unravel the main villain’s master plan.

See also: Books written from a dog’s perspective

Maru from Barakamon

Maru, the endearing stray dog in the anime Barakamon, becomes the companion of the main character, Seishuu Handa. Despite not having a permanent place to call his own, Maru’s behavior earns him the love and affection of the entire community. Beyond being a lovable pup, Maru plays a significant role in supporting Seishuu as he grapples with artistic challenges.

Their close friendship brings an extra touch of warmth to the series, highlighting the meaningful connections that can blossom between the most unexpected pals.

Iggy from Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure

Iggy, a devoted companion in the widely acclaimed anime Jojo’s Bizarre Adventure, initially introduces himself as a self-centered and laid-back dog. Iggy, the Boston terrier, was discovered in New York’s street slums, reigning as the king of stray dogs. His Stand poses a threat to anyone but Avdol, with ordinary dog catchers falling victim to its attacks. However, as the series unfolds, Iggy evolves into a vital ally for the main characters, surprising both them and the audience with his unwavering loyalty. Viewers quickly fall in love with him because of his sassy and sarcastic attitude, making him a favourite character in the series.

Potato from Air Gear

Potato is a stray dog who becomes the pet of the main character, Ikki, in the anime series Air Gear. People often see him riding on Ikki’s shoulder and know him for his fierce loyalty and protective nature. Despite being a dog, Potato is also a skilled fighter and has even saved Ikki’s life in battle.

Koromaru from Persona 3

Koromaru is a Shiba Inu featured in the popular game and anime Persona 3. He is a cool dog and is part of a special team. He possesses all the qualities that you would love in a pet. He’s intelligent, well trained, adorable.

He is a loyal and intelligent dog who can communicate with humans through telepathy. Koromaru also has a unique ability to summon a Persona, making him a valuable asset in battles.

Tobimaru from Sword of the Stranger

Tobimaru, the valiant dog in the anime film Sword of the Stranger, is a loyal companion to the orphan Kotaro. Initially wary of Nanashi, Tobimaru quickly warms up to the ronin, displaying a caring nature by sharing a meal. He’s fiercely protective, saving Kotaro from danger and even taking a poisoned knife meant for Nanashi.

Even though he was tied up, Tobimaru’s gut feeling about Shouan’s lies makes him break free and help Nanashi rescue Kotaro. Tobimaru shows bravery and selflessness by distracting a tough Ming warrior, letting Nanashi save Kotaro from harm. His loyalty, courage, and self-sacrifice make him a truly remarkable character.

Wanta from Elfen Lied

In the touching anime Elfen Lied, we see the heartfelt connection between Mayu and Wanta, a little dog. It brings out the struggles of being homeless and trying to survive. Mayu, who ran away from a tough situation at home, finds comfort in Wanta’s constant loyalty.

Elfen Lied is one of the most violent anime ever made. In the middle of all that blood, a runaway girl and a small dog living by the sea are the part that stays with you.

Tibet Inu Monogatari

In the touching anime Tibet Inu Monogatari, young Tianjing faces tough times after his mom passes away. His family relocates him to the distant grasslands of Tibet, where his father is the sole doctor for a small community. Tianjing copes with loneliness and takes on the role of a shepherd in the vast countryside, teeming with threats such as wolves and packs of wild dogs. Amid these challenges, Tianjing befriends a stray Tibetan mastiff.

When a new danger comes to the community, the bond between the two becomes a strong force, facing the challenges of nature and human cruelty together.

See also: Bluey cartoon dog: beloved children’s show loved by kids and adults alike

Guts, Kill la Kill

In Kill la Kill, Guts is the Mankanshoku family’s dog, and he fits right into the loudest, hungriest household in the show. He is there mostly for laughs, and he is never far from Mako.

See the full list: 20 most famous cartoon dogs of all time.

Chouchou from One Piece

Chouchou belongs to Hocker, who ran the pet food shop in Orange Town, and he kept guarding it after his owner had to leave. Even after owner passed away, Chouchou defended the shop during an attack by the Buggy Pirates. Luffy’s timely help created a special bond, offering comfort to Chouchou. Years later, fate reunited them, and now Chouchou proudly owns a Giant Pet Food Shop.

One Piece has a thousand-plus episodes of pirates and devil fruits. Ask fans which early scene got them and a surprising number will name a dog guarding a shop for a man who was never coming back.

Call them cartoons if you like. Then sit through Gintama episode 153, or Nina and Alexander’s last scene, and see how long that lasts.

Did we miss your favourite anime dog? Tell us in the comments below.

Gin from Ginga: Nagareboshi Gin (Silver Fang)

Long before isekai took over, an entire anime dared to make its hero a dog. Gin, a silver-brindle Akita pup, leaves home to join a pack of fighting dogs taking on a monstrous bear in the mountains. Ginga: Nagareboshi Gin is gloriously, unapologetically about dogs being brave, and for a whole generation it is simply the anime dog. If you have never teared up over animated Akitas, here is your chance.

Heen from Howl’s Moving Castle

Studio Ghibli does many things beautifully, and one of them is the perfect lazy dog. Heen wheezes, waddles and can barely manage a single step, yet this little spy-dog quietly ends up on the right side of every moment that matters in Howl’s Moving Castle. Proof that you don’t have to be heroic to be unforgettable. Sometimes you just have to show up and breathe loudly.

Anime dogs: FAQs

What is the most famous dog in anime? Ein, the impossibly clever data dog from Cowboy Bebop, and Akamaru, Kiba’s loyal ninja-hound in Naruto, are the two most iconic anime dogs.

What is the dog in Naruto called? Akamaru, the white nin-dog who fights alongside Kiba Inuzuka.

Which anime has a giant dog? Gintama’s Sadaharu, a huge white dog who happily bites everyone, is the best-loved giant anime dog.

Are anime dogs based on real breeds? Often, yes. Ein is an adorable Welsh Corgi, while many nin-dogs and companions draw on Akita, Shiba and husky-type breeds.

Is Inuyasha a dog? Sort of. Inuyasha is a half-dog-demon who can take a giant dog form, the son of a legendary dog-demon. He is not a pet, but he is the most famous dog-blooded character anime has given us.