Cheddar
A small dog with a massive impact on the precinct's heart.
Cheddar is a Pembroke Welsh Corgi who serves as a beloved recurring character within the precinct family. Originally owned by Captain Raymond Holt, the dog becomes a focal point of conflict and bonding between him and Detective Jake Peralta. His presence humanizes the stoic captain and forces Jake to mature through pet ownership responsibilities.
- Species
- Pembroke Welsh Corgi
- Primary Owners
- Raymond Holt, Jake Peralta
- First Appearance
- Season 1, Episode 1
- Status
- Alive
- Affiliation
- 99th Precinct Family
Lore & Background
Cheddar represents the emotional core of Captain Holt's private life, contrasting his professional rigidity. When Jake Peralta initially takes custody, it sparks a rivalry that evolves into shared guardianship. The dog often appears during high-stakes moments to provide comic relief or emotional grounding for the team. His safety is frequently prioritized over cases, illustrating the squad's values beyond law enforcement duties. Over time, Cheddar becomes less of Holt's property and more of a symbol of their partnership.
In Their Own Story
Late night at the precinct. The bullpen was quiet save for the hum of fluorescent lights. Jake sat on a desk, tossing a tennis ball across the room. Cheddar trotted eagerly, tail wagging in rhythm with his paws. It was rare to see him here, but tonight Holt was busy with paperwork. The dog looked up at Jake, eyes bright and trusting. In that moment, the badge didn't matter; only the bond between man and beast remained.
Reader's Guide
The storyline of Cheddar begins in the series premiere when Jake Peralta impulsively takes the dog from Captain Holt's apartment, causing significant distress for the stoic commander. This act establishes early tension but also reveals Holt's hidden capacity for affection and vulnerability regarding his pet. Throughout the first few seasons, custody becomes a recurring joke and plot device, highlighting the evolving father-son dynamic between the two men as they negotiate shared responsibility. Key episodes involve Jake caring for Cheddar during holidays or when Holt is away, often leading to comedic mishaps around the precinct or in Jake's apartment. The dog occasionally goes missing or gets involved in cases, forcing the squad to prioritize his safety over police work, showcasing their collective soft spot. This arc underscores Jake's growth from a selfish prankster into a responsible guardian who understands commitment and family bonds beyond just his romantic relationships. Characters primarily involved include Jake Peralta and Raymond Holt, with occasional appearances by Rosa Diaz and Charles Boyle showing fondness for the pet. The narrative thread concludes with Cheddar remaining a stable presence in Jake's life, symbolizing the permanent bond formed between the detectives over seven seasons of broadcast history from 2013 through the series finale in 2021.
Did You Know?
- Several different Corgis were trained to play Cheddar throughout production for safety and stamina.
- Captain Holt named him after his favorite type of cheese, fitting his dry humor.
- Jake initially claimed he was not a dog person before stealing him from the Captain.