Many fans of the popular British sci-fi show Doctor Who are familiar with the Doctor's trusty robotic dog, K-9. However, some may not be aware that the Doctor also had a pet dog at one point in the show's long history.

The name of the Doctor's dog was Laika. Laika was a black Labrador who appeared in the 1977 episode "The Invisible Enemy." In the episode, the Doctor and his companion Leela are miniaturized and injected into the Doctor's own body to combat a deadly virus. Laika is left behind in the TARDIS to guard their bodies while they are inside the Doctor's bloodstream.

Laika is a loyal and intelligent companion who helps the Doctor and Leela navigate the dangers they face inside the Doctor's body. Despite her limited screen time, Laika's presence adds an extra layer of warmth and humanity to the episode.

While K-9 remains the Doctor's most famous canine companion, Laika holds a special place in the hearts of fans who remember her brief but memorable appearance on the show. Her name is a nod to the real-life Soviet space dog who became the first living creature to orbit the Earth in 1957.

If you're interested in learning more about the Doctor's various companions, including his robotic dog K-9 and his pet dog Laika, there are numerous resources available online. Websites like the TARDIS Wikia offer detailed information about the characters, episodes, and lore of the Doctor Who universe.

Whether you're a longtime fan of the show or a newcomer looking to explore its rich history, the Doctor's canine companions are just one of the many fascinating aspects of the series. So the next time you're watching an episode of Doctor Who, keep an eye out for Laika and remember the Doctor's faithful pet dog.

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