Recently, a 10-minute video clip has surfaced, capturing the most charming moments between the ingenious detective Columbo and his Basset Hound. This duo, especially the pup, had been a source of sheer delight since the early ’70s, impressing animal lovers and Columbo fans.
‘Dog’ became a regular guest character and was nearly as synonymous with the Lieutenant as his cigar, raincoat, and beat-up car. The adorable dozy pooch had several moments where he appeared to delight viewers.
The Basset Hound’s inclusion in the story added a different perspective story to the genius detective’s character. In the first scene of the video clip, Columbo is seen visiting a suspect. He puts ‘Dog’ in charge of the car and tells him that he loves him, showing the softer side of the genius detective.
The next video clip scene was taken from “Etude in Black,” which was ‘Dog’s debut episode. In the footage, the concerned Lt. Columbo takes his sweet Basset hound to the vet for a vaccine shot. The dozy Basset Hound lying on the table and Columbo talking to the vet about his pooch shows the depth of their emerging bond.
There is also a bit of a backstory to ‘Dog’s addition to ‘Columbo.’ The series’s co-creator, Richard Levinson, considered adding a new character in Season 2. And wanted a young cop as the Lieutenant’s partner. However, the screenwriter Steven Bochco surprised him with his idea of adding a dog. Peter Falk initially resisted this idea but soon fell in love with the dozy pooch.
In one of the most captivating episodes of “Columbo,” the detective faces a unique challenge when his beloved Basset Hound, affectionately known as ‘Dog’, is asked to leave dog school due to lack of progress. Undeterred, Columbo brings the Basset Hound to a crime scene. Amidst the investigation, the Basset Hound unexpectedly wanders to a garbage recycling machine. In a surprising turn of events, ‘Dog’ plays a crucial role in helping Columbo crack the case.
In one of the humorous twists during a murder investigation, Lieutenant Columbo is accompanied by his loyal pet. With his hands full, he cleverly enlists the help of a child prodigy. The scene unfolds as Columbo, with his signature style, asks the young genius to walk his pet using a robot. As he exits the room, the detective’s expression of gratitude and bemusement sends the audience into fits of laughter, showcasing Columbo’s unmatched ability to blend detective work with light-hearted moments.
Next, Columbo tells Dick Van Dyke about his need to visit the vet, humorously attributing it to his canine’s “lovesickness.” This moment highlights the pet’s significant, yet unseen, influence in the storyline.
One of the scenes in the clip also captures ‘Dog’s fondness for ice cream. The cute pup can be seen relishing his favorite ice cream without worries. At the same time, Columbo is questioned by the ‘internal security’ cop.
This video is more than just a collection of scenes; it’s a window into the unique bond between Columbo and his Basset Hound. It highlights how ‘Dog’ added a different dimension to Columbo’s character, showcasing his warmth and humor. Share this video with your loved ones, not just for the nostalgia but for the joy and laughter that this iconic detective and his endearing pooch brought into our lives.
