Poppy Playtime's DogDay is a tragic figure who deserves so much better than what he gets. Though he has a minor appearance in Deep Sleep, he shares some important information with you, proving to be a valuable ally in this hellhole. So, let's take a look at what you need to know about him, from his apperances and personality to his role in the story and his history.
To get a complete understanding of what's going on in Poppy Playtime Chapter 3, check out our Poppy Playtime's CatNap guide, as it goes into the events that ultimately led to what you witness in Deep Sleep. It's also a good idea to read up on Poppy Playtime's Prototype, the evil mastermind behind the abhorrent events of the Playtime Co. factory.
Here's what you need to know about Poppy Playtime's DogDay.
Who is Poppy Playtime's DogDay?
DogDay is the leader of a group of toys known as the Smiling Critters, the same group to which CatNap belongs, so the two are very familiar with each other. Unfortunately, when you meet DogDay, he's being held prisoner by CatNap, and if his appearance is anything to go by, he's been trapped for a very long time, perhaps even an entire decade. DogDay is a good toy; he stands for what's right, which means he doesn't agree with the Prototype, causing CatNap to declare him a heretic and punish him accordingly.
Besides CatNap, DogDay is the final Smiling Critter to be alive, as the others seemingly met their end before you arrive in the factory. Based on what's going on with DogDay, it wouldn't surprise us if the likes of Bubba Bubbaphant were killed and used as food after they sided with DogDay following The Hour of Joy.
At some point, DogDay clearly speaks out against Experiment 1006 or, at the very least, gives off the impression that he doesn't agree with what the Prototype has done. When you finally get to see what transpired back in 1995, it's only CatNap (alongside the mini Smiling Critters) that appears to be causing trouble in Playcare, as DogDay and the rest of the bigger buddies variants are missing. Presumably, The Prototype did take part in The Hour of Joy, perhaps even orchestrating the massacre that led to the deaths of "the guilty and the innocent."
We know that Poppy disagrees with what happened, and given what DogDay says about helping Poppy set things right, it's clear that he also thinks things have gone too far in the factory. What befalls DogDay is nothing short of a crying shame, and it still haunts me.
What is Poppy Playtime DogDay's role in the story?
DogDay doesn't have a huge impact on what happens in Deep Sleep. Rather, after clueing you in on some of the unfortunate events that plagued the factory, he becomes a mini-boss of sorts. You have to run from him after the mini Poppy Playtime Smiling Critters crawl inside him, killing him and taking control of his body. It's quite harrowing to watch, especially as it's evident that the poor pooch has been suffering at the hands (paws) of CatNap for some time. As his lower half is missing, it's safe to assume that the mini Smiling Critters are using him as their food source.
As for the rundown that he gives you, DogDay helps you to piece together the overarching story by giving some insight into The Hour of Joy. He explains that CatNap worships the Prototype and that he doesn't take too kindly to heretics. Assumedly, DogDay is one of those heretics. The Hour of Joy was a massacre; hundreds lost their lives, many of whom were innocent. Due to this vibrant and happy nature, it's no surprise that the events took a tragic toll on DogDay, leaving a deep impact on him.
The last Smiling Critter begs you to go and find Poppy. He wants you to end what's happening. So you see, DogDay is one of the good guys, but that doesn't mean he can't kill you. Remember, you need to run as soon as he screams and those mini Smiling Critters take control of him. DogDay pursues you until you manage to escape the Playhouse.
Poppy Playtime DogDay's personality
His Smiling Critter description states that DogDay is a sunny individual who always looks on the bright side of life, often encouraging those around him to do the same. He's a dog through and through, seeing the good in everyone and doing all he can to bring a little bit of happiness into their lives.
Unsurprisingly, DogDay is loyal, something that you can say about most dogs, doing what's right until his dying breath. The moment in which he screams for you to run is not one I will soon forget, but his bravery forces me to carry on.
Poppy Playtime DogDay's appearances
Chapter 3 is the first appearance of DogDay, and given what the mini Smiling Critters do to him, we'd wager that this is the last we'll ever see of the Bigger Buddies DogDay. However, you do encounter Mini DogDays in Safe Haven in Poppy Playtime Chapter 4, though after what The Prototype does, it's possible you may not see any form of DogDay in Poppy Playtime Chapter 5 and beyond. I hope I'm wrong, I have a soft spot for the Smiling Critters, regardless of their size. Except for CatNap. He got what he deserved.
Is there a Poppy Playtime DogDay plush?
Yes, you can get an official Poppy Playtime DogDay plush from the Poppy Playtime website. Actually, there are three options for you to choose from, the first is a regular size plush of the average mini DogDay, while the second option is the same, but smaller. The third option is for those of you who truly embrace horror, as it depicts the bigger bodies DogDay, as you encounter him. That's right, his lower half is missing, and he's held up by belts.