The character of Perrito in “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish” has charmed audiences with his optimistic outlook and unwavering loyalty. However, a closer examination of his backstory, particularly his description of his origins, strongly suggests a life rooted in the unethical practices of puppy mills or backyard breeding. This interpretation adds a layer of poignant darkness to his character, contrasting with his outwardly cheerful demeanor.
One of the first subtle clues lies in Perrito’s description of his family as his “litter mates.” While this might seem like a minor detail, in the context of dog breeding, the term “siblings” is more commonly used when referring to offspring from the same parents, especially if they are intended for sale. The use of “litter mates” could imply a lack of attachment to parental figures and a more utilitarian view of the puppies, where they are simply part of a “litter” rather than a family unit. Further information suggests that “litter mates” might be used to distinguish puppies from a single birth from future litters, indicating a potential, albeit sad, understanding from Perrito that his original family was not meant to be permanent.
Perrito’s status as the “runt of the litter” is another significant indicator of his past. In unethical breeding operations, runts are often discarded or neglected because they are perceived as less valuable for sale or breeding. Perrito recounts being thrown in a dumpster and nearly drowned, actions that align with the cruel practices of breeders who prioritize profit over the well-being of their animals. The disposability suggested by these events points towards a commercial breeding environment where individual puppies are expendable if they don’t meet profit margins.
Furthermore, Perrito’s breed – a merle chihuahua – is a critical piece of the puzzle. The merle gene, when present in Chihuahuas, is associated with a multitude of serious health issues. Many reputable kennel clubs do not permit the registration of merle Chihuahuas due to the ethical concerns surrounding the health complications linked to the gene. Some chihuahua enthusiast forums even go so far as to ban discussions about merle Chihuahuas, highlighting the widespread disapproval of this coat color within the breed community. The risks are amplified when two merle dogs are bred together, as the resulting puppies have a significantly higher chance of severe birth defects. Even in seemingly ethical breeding programs, there’s a risk of inadvertently breeding two dogs carrying the merle gene if one or both do not outwardly display the merle coat. Perrito’s physical characteristics – lopsided ears, an underbite, a wobbly gait, and a noticeable scar on his stomach indicating past surgery – are consistent with the health problems often associated with poorly bred merle Chihuahuas.
It is interesting to note how some fans, in their affection for Perrito, have sought to distance him from the Chihuahua breed, preferring to believe he is a mixed breed or even an Australian Shepherd puppy. This desire to avoid associating Perrito with a breed that can be perceived negatively, especially given the context of unethical breeding, is understandable. However, this overlooks the subtle narrative cues within the film. Kitty’s inquiry about him being part of a “chihuahua gang” and Perrito’s own past tense reference to himself as “used to be a puppy” serve as further, albeit subtle, hints that his chihuahua heritage is indeed significant and tied to his traumatic past. His existence as a merle chihuahua with visible health defects is not just a visual detail but a crucial, albeit understated, narrative element that underscores the harsh reality of his origins.
In conclusion, while Perrito offers a beacon of light and optimism in “Puss in Boots: The Last Wish,” the narrative threads woven into his backstory paint a grim picture of his early life. The specific terminology he uses, his status as the runt, and his breed all point towards a past shaped by the cruel and profit-driven practices of puppy mills and unethical backyard breeders. Recognizing these elements allows for a deeper appreciation of Perrito’s resilience and the profound impact of his experiences, even as he maintains his cheerful disposition.
