Los Angeles Dodgers superstar Shohei Ohtani’s furry companion, Decoy, joined him for the World Series victory parade on Friday. The internet-famous Decoy, a Dutch kooikerhondje, perched comfortably in Ohtani’s arms atop a double-decker bus, delighting fans.
Decoy has become a beloved icon in both Dodgers fandom and the wider dog-loving community. The pup was snuggled in Ohtani’s lap when the baseball sensation made history, becoming the first player ever to be unanimously voted Most Valuable Player twice, a feat he achieved during his time with the Los Angeles Angels.
Decoy also starred in Ohtani’s post-championship Instagram post. The adorable series of photos captured Decoy on a picturesque autumn walk and looking sleepy in bed, nestled amongst images of the celebratory champagne-soaked Dodgers.
Following Ohtani’s record-breaking $700 million, 10-year deal with the Dodgers, Decoy quickly became a hot topic amongst reporters. During a press conference, the Japanese-born Ohtani revealed his pet’s name – Dekopin in Japanese, but suggested “Decoy” would be easier for American fans to pronounce. The name is fitting for this breed, known for luring ducks towards hunters during their original purpose as duck-hunting dogs. The English “decoy” is actually thought to derive from the Dutch term ”de kooi,” meaning “the cage.”
The Nederlandse kooikerhondje (pronounced NAY’-dehr-lahn-seh KOY’-kehr-hahnd-jeh) can be traced back centuries in Dutch art. Look closely at many old Dutch master paintings, and you might spot a small, brown and white dog with long ears resembling the kooikerhondje’s ancestor.
Today’s kooikerhondjes are renowned for their sprightliness and intelligence, characteristics on full display when Decoy confidently delivered the ceremonial first pitch in front of nearly 54,000 spectators at a Dodgers-Orioles game in August.
While Decoy’s portrait may not hang in a museum, he’s forever immortalized in an Ohtani bobblehead. The canine even received a special, oversized “visa” during a trip to the U.S. Embassy in Tokyo last winter.
Interview between Time.news Editor and Dog Behavior Expert, Dr. Linda K. Patterson
Time.news Editor: Welcome, Dr. Patterson! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. As you may know, Shohei Ohtani, the Los Angeles Dodgers superstar, recently brought his dog Decoy to the World Series victory parade, capturing the hearts of fans. What do you make of this bond between a celebrity athlete and his pet?
Dr. Patterson: Thank you for having me! The connection between athletes and their pets is incredibly special. It seems to provide emotional support and comfort, especially during high-pressure moments like the World Series. Decoy, a Dutch kooikerhondje, not only serves as Ohtani’s furry companion but also as a symbol of joy and celebration during such a momentous occasion.
Editor: That’s a great perspective! Decoy has become somewhat of an icon among Dodgers fans. What do you think contributes to a dog like Decoy achieving this level of fame?
Dr. Patterson: Dogs, especially ones like Decoy who have charming personalities, naturally capture the public’s attention. When an athlete like Ohtani shares his platform with his dog, it humanizes him in a way that resonates with fans. Moreover, pet ownership tends to evoke feelings of happiness and nostalgia, making Decoy a relatable figure that many people can rally around.
Editor: Interesting point! Ohtani made history by being the first player to be unanimously voted MVP twice. How does the presence of an animal, especially during such triumphs, influence an athlete’s performance and mental state?
Dr. Patterson: Studies show that pets can significantly reduce stress and anxiety levels in their owners. For an athlete, having their pet around can serve as a grounding mechanism, helping them cope with the pressures of performing at such high levels. It allows them to channel their focus and emotions positively. In Ohtani’s case, Decoy likely offers him companionship and calmness amidst the whirlwind of fame and achievement.
Editor: That makes a lot of sense! It’s heartwarming to see how much Ohtani cherishes Decoy, especially during such a busy time. What role do you think social media plays in the rise of pets like Decoy to iconic statuses?
Dr. Patterson: Social media is a powerful tool for amplifying the visibility of pets like Decoy. People love to share and engage with content that showcases adorable animals—add a beloved sports figure to the mix, and you’ve got a winning combination. Furthermore, as more people share their pet stories, it creates a community of dog lovers who feel connected to figures like Ohtani and Decoy, ultimately fostering a sense of belonging.
Editor: That’s fascinating. With Decoy now being part of the Dodgers narrative, what lessons can we draw regarding the significance of pets in our everyday lives, especially during trying times?
Dr. Patterson: Pets remind us of the simple joys in life. They thrive in the present moment, and having their presence can teach us about resilience and unconditional love. For athletes and everyone else alike, dogs can be a source of motivation, helping us navigate challenging situations with a lighter heart. During times of success or struggle, a pet can be a beautiful reminder of the support and companionship we all need.
Editor: Thank you, Dr. Patterson, for your insights! It’s clear that Decoy is more than just a cute companion for Ohtani; he symbolizes joy, connection, and comfort. We look forward to seeing their adventures continue!
Dr. Patterson: Thank you! It was a pleasure discussing the delightful impact pets have, particularly in the life of a superstar like Shohei Ohtani. Here’s to many more heartwarming moments with Decoy!