Santa's Little Helper, the beloved dog of The Simpsons, has been with the series since 1989 when Homer and Bart adopted him following his abandonment at the Springfield Dog Track. Let me be 100% transparent that I despise any form of animal sporting, and animals didn't consent to become entertainment "props." Yet, in The Simpsons world, the track plot worked in Santa's Little Helper's favor because that's how he found his forever home. And while the Simpson family may feel unorthodox when it comes to raising their kids or even their animals, there's plenty of love, too.
Thirty-six seasons later, Santa's Little Helper continues waging into our hearts. The not-so-speedy pooch is speedy in delivering affection, especially to his best friend, Bart. The two had some incredible adventures over the years, and thanks to The Simpsons not ending anytime soon, we'll see more of these storylines in upcoming seasons.
We all love Santa's Little Helper, too, and part of that reason is his breed. Therefore, we're going to not only reveal his breed, but the characteristics and traits of the breed.
What type of dog is Santa's Little Helper on The Simpsons?
According to Matt Groening, given that Santa's Little Helper was a former race dog, his breed is the greyhound. Greyhounds are known for their slender, muscular frames and agility. Males can weigh up to 70 pounds, females are slightly lighter, and both genders are racers.
The dog retire from racing between the ages of four and six years old, and there are adoption agencies that work specifically with greyhounds to find good homes for them following their "careers."
If we had to guess Santa's Little Helper's age, it would be around 1-3 years, as he was still racing. So far, he has extended beyond the average greyhound's lifespan, which falls between 10 and 13 years.
If he was real, he'll be close to 40, or 226 in dog years.
However, due to the racing and as a breed health risk, greyhounds are prone to a condition called Bloat or a twisted stomach. The season 3 episode, "Dog of Death" covers the issue in a serious and realistic matter and like the many of us who have animals, veterinarian costs can hold us back financially. But as they're part of our family and in my case, my holistic mental health treatment, you'll find a way to accomodate for their medical needs.
Without surgery or treatment, Bloat leads to bigger problems, and even death.
Santa's Little Helper is a friendly, loyal companion who enjoys the simple things in his life. These traits match the breed's personality standards. Greyhounds are lovable, loyal, reserved, and work well with kids.
Unlike Santa's Little Helper's doggy friends in the animated realm, such as Bluey, many Disney Dogs, and Brian Griffin, he lacks any human traits, and he's written to be an actual dog, not anthropomorphic. Though, in some "Treehouse of Horror" episodes, Santa's Little Helper does exhibit human qualities, although "TOH" installments are non-canonical in The Simpsons franchise.
If you're considering to add a dog or any animal in your life, consider these helpful tips:
- Research what breed you want and vision how they'll fit into your lifestyle. Are they good with family, kids, and strangers, and do you have the right space for them?
- Be financially prepared. Animals are expensive, not only in vet costs but also in food, supplies, and overall needs.
- Spay or neuter as soon as possible. In the case of my female chihuahua, I got her spayed at precisely six months, the recommended age for her breed. Not only does getting the animals "fixed" help control the pet population and the struggle to find homes, but it can also prevent certain cancers.
- Always consider adoption first, as there are many animals in shelters looking for homes. You're also giving the animal a much-needed second chance in life and are supporting a great cause.
