Zero Day: What Happens to Del the Dog? What Breed is it?

‘Zero Day’ is an enthralling show about politics, conspiracy theories, and the truth. It revolves around a former President, George Mullen, who left the Oval Office over a decade ago without any attempt at a second term. Nonetheless, his break from politics ends drastically after the nation suffers a tragic crisis. An unknown enemy targets the country through a massive cyberattack that results in numerous deaths and the looming threat of its return. Consequently, in order to investigate the incident and find the guilty party, President Evelyn Mitchell organizes a Commission with immense authority and power.

However, instead of taking the lead herself, she hands the reigns to George. Consequently, this shifts the man’s regular life from morning swim routines and walks with his dog, Del, to long nights at the office and increasing public contempt. Still, while the political drama unfolds in the forefront, one can’t help but remain a little invested in George’s pawed pal and his predicament. SPOILERS AHEAD!

Del the Dog Remains George’s Loyal Companion

Del is George’s best furry friend from the start. The duo have a long-sustained morning routine in which they go on a run together, taking a scenic route through the area that brings them back to the former President’s backyard, where he can check up on his bird feeder. The companionship between them remains a constant for George in his retirement, defining the days of his new life away from the public sphere. Therefore, fittingly, Del stops being a frequent part of the narrative as soon as his human companion accepts the responsibility of public service again.

Over time, as George’s visits to his home dwindle out of habit, so does his morning runs with Del. Nonetheless, just because the dog is far away from his job in New York doesn’t mean he’s entirely safe from its dangers. Some of the decisions that George makes—such as Evan Green’s arrest, torture, and the extended blocking of financial transactions—put him in contempt of the public. As a result, during the second cyberattack, a large mob attacks his house, forcing him and his wife, Sheila, to flee while rumors of his demise take over the news channels.

Nonetheless, the Mullens—including Del—actually make it out of the riotous attack alive. Although Del’s escape/rescue from the house is never explicitly showcased, his survival is confirmed in the show’s last scene. After making some hard decisions and facing their consequences, George’s work with the Commission comes to an end. As such, he returns to his regular life—complete with long runs where Del is a dedicated friend by his side.

Del the Dog is a Golden Retriever

George Mullen’s four-legged friend, Del, is a golden retriever dog. The golden retriever, a Scottish breed, is one of the most common types of dogs that are kept as a pet and are notoriously known for their affectionate and friendly nature. This aspect of Del’s characterization makes him the perfect partner for George in his retirement, offering him a taste of grounded normalcy. Furthermore, the retriever matches the former President’s personality through his classification as a working dog since they’re known for hunting and field work. Considering that a notable aspect of his owner’s identity is tied to his profession as a public servant, Del and George seem to be the perfect match for one another.