Human’s best (remaining) friends
Upon venturing through the portals into the Real World, the Plastic Army Men encountered a fascinating species, left by the disappeared humans, they named “dogs”. These creatures, known scientifically as Canis familiaris, exhibit a remarkable range of sizes, shapes, and abilities, making them one of the most versatile and intriguing life forms on this new planet.
Dogs have a long-standing relationship with the dominant species of the Real World, humans. This bond dates back thousands of years, with evidence suggesting that dogs were among the first animals to be domesticated. The Plastic Army Men have observed that dogs have been bred for various purposes, from companionship to specialized tasks.
The dog (Canis familiaris or Canis lupus familiaris) is a domesticated descendant of the wolf, literally made by Humans. Also called the domestic dog, it is derived from extinct gray wolves, and the gray wolf is the dog’s closest living relative. The dog was the first species to be domesticated by humans. Hunter-gatherers humans did this over 15,000 years ago, before the development of agriculture. Due to their long association with humans, dogs have expanded to a large number of domestic individuals and gained the ability to thrive on a starch-rich diet that would be inadequate for other canids.
The dog has been selectively bred over millennia for various behaviors, sensory capabilities, and physical attributes. Dog breeds vary widely in shape, size, and color. They performed many roles for humans, such as hunting, herding, pulling loads, protection, assisting police and the military, companionship, therapy, and aiding disabled humans. Over the millennia, dogs became uniquely adapted to human behavior, and the human–canine bond has been a topic of frequent study. This influence on human society has given them the sobriquet of “man’s best friend”.
Super developed sense of smell and hearing
Dogs and derived species have a superior sense of smell, far above other animals. The same with the sense of hearing.
There was one occasion where a dog trained by the Green Army saved an entire company from certain defeat and then helped them conquer more than a square mile. The dog was the only one who heard the calls for help and extraction, saving many troops from falling hostage or dying. Regarding his sense of smell, it was enough to spray the target with the scent with which the dog was trained to track it, something that did not allow to have an infallible hiding place to the Tan.
Dogs in the Real World: A Discovery by the Plastic Army Men
Breeds and Characteristics:
- Companion Dogs:
- Toy Breeds: These small dogs, nicknamed “toy” because of their size, such as Chihuahuas and Pomeranians, are often kept for companionship. They are known for their affectionate nature and adaptability to indoor living. This kind of dogs are almost useless for combat purposes.
- Lap Dogs: Slightly larger than toy breeds, lap dogs like the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel are cherished for their gentle temperament and loyalty.
- Working Dogs:
- Herding Breeds: Dogs like Border Collies and Australian Shepherds are used to manage livestock. Their intelligence and agility make them excellent at guiding and protecting herds.
- Guard Dogs: Breeds such as German Shepherds and Rottweilers are trained to protect property and humans. They are known for their strength, loyalty, and protective instincts. They are one of the most effective combat dogs to destroy entire toy armies.
- Service Dogs:
- Guide Dogs: These dogs assist individuals with visual impairments. Breeds like Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are commonly trained for this role due to their intelligence and calm demeanor.
- Therapy Dogs: Used in therapeutic settings, these dogs provide comfort and support to toys in hospitals, schools, and disaster areas.
- Sporting Dogs:
- Retrievers: Breeds like the Labrador Retriever were skilled at retrieving game for human hunters, a terrible murdering game. They are known for their excellent swimming abilities and keen sense of smell.
- Pointers: These dogs, such as the English Pointer, were trained by humans to locate game birds and indicate their position to birds murders.
Roles and Training:
The Army Men have documented that dogs undergo extensive training to perform their roles effectively. Training methods vary depending on the breed and the specific tasks they are expected to perform. This training enhances their natural abilities and ensures they can work harmoniously with humans. For this reasons the Plastic Toys are opening “Dog Bootcamps” to teach them battlefield knowledge.
In the past some humans used them to kill other lower mammals. But that is something that the Army Men changed. Although there are still some dogs trained for hunting, mainly to get food for other animals and for those “useless” dog species that are incapable of hunting (thanks to humans) now their habits have changed slightly, focusing on tracking toys, rescuing and in some cases destroying them.
Cultural Significance:
Dogs hold a significant place in human culture. They are often considered members of the family and are celebrated in various forms of art, literature, and media. The Plastic Army Men have noted that dogs are not only valued for their practical roles but also for the emotional support and companionship they provide.
Conclusion: In the Real World, dogs are a diverse and indispensable species. Their wide range of abilities and deep bond with humans make them a vital part of this planet’s ecosystem. The Plastic Army Men continue to study and admire these remarkable creatures as they explore and document the wonders of the Real World.
There were several different types of Dogs registered
Poodle dog:
The first mammalian animal of gigantic proportions found in the Real World in late 1999. His superior speed and strength were no match for Sgt. Hawk and Vikki Grimm, that they could do nothing but to run and hide, barely managing to do so. Plastro was almost killed by this dog.