The upcoming film “The Year of the Dog” will premiere with a limited release on February 24, 2023. The movie focuses on Matt (Rob Grabow) as he grapples with alcoholism and fixing his relationship with his ailing mother before she passes away. At the center of the story is a stray husky named Yup'ik, played by a very good boy named Caleb, who helps Matt better himself.

While speaking to Longview News-Journal in December 2022, the film’s writer, director, and star Rob Grabow spoke about his canine castmate. According to the publication, the furry friend did not have any prior acting experiences. In fact, he was discovered at a rescue less than two months before production of “The Year of the Dog” began. Grabow shared that he was impressed with the dog’s ability to be a scene stealer. 

“Caleb came on set, having no training whatsoever, and was absolutely amazing. He was so playful,” said the actor. 

Grabow acknowledged that animal trainer Jon Van Dyke was able to train Caleb before he began shooting scenes. The writer also noted that he bribed the furry friend with some bacon. 

“Caleb and I really got along well. It was just an added perk that I would feed him bacon whenever there was a certain trick we had to learn,” revealed Grabow. 

The actor also shared that he was warned early in his career to not work with dogs. 

“They say in acting school to never act with a dog or a kid, because they’ll overshadow you. They’re so spontaneous. If you have some idea of how you think the scene is supposed to go, it will read fake,” explained Grabow. 

It’s safe to say that Grabow is pleased he ignored that advice from acting school!