The Bond Between Candy and His Dog

Traces the emotional connection between Candy and his old dog, a relationship that mirrors the bond between George and Lennie and highlights the theme of mercy.

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The Dog's Companionship

The Old Friend The Dog's Role Candy's dog is his only companion. The dog has been with him since it was a pup. It is old and smell, but Candy loves it. The dog is a symbol of Candy's past life and his need for connection. The Bond's Importance In a world of transient relationships, the bond between Candy and his dog is a rare example of long-term loyalty. The dog is the only living thing that Candy can rely on. The bond is simple but deep. The Threat to the Bond The other men, especially Carlson, see the dog as a nuisance. They pressure Candy to let it be shot. The bond is threatened by the practicality of the other men. Candy must fight to keep his friend.

The Loss of the Dog

The Breaking of the Bond The Decision to Shoot Candy reluctantly agrees to let Carlson shoot the dog. He cannot bring himself to do it himself. The bond is broken by the pressure of the group. Candy is left alone. The Emotional Aftermath Candy lies on his bunk, staring at the ceiling. He is grief-stricken. He later tells George that he should have shot the dog himself. The regret is a powerful emotion. The Parallel to Lennie The bond between Candy and his dog is a parallel to the bond between George and Lennie. Both bonds are broken by a mercy killing. Candy's regret is a lesson that George heeds. The loss of the dog is a foreshadowing of the loss of Lennie.

The first day at the ranch

The first evening at the ranch