In Japan, one man’s unusual dream of becoming a dog has taken yet another surprising turn. After spending a small fortune on a hyper-realistic collie costume, he has now been filmed not only walking on a leash but also making friends with real dogs.
From man to “dog”
Known as Toco, the Japanese man first caught attention after spending the equivalent of €14,000 on a lifelike rough collie suit crafted by a specialist studio. His goal was simple but striking: to live, at least in part, as a dog.
Since then, he has embraced the role wholeheartedly. Earlier this year, he even purchased a giant cage to sleep in, further blurring the line between human and canine life. His adventures, shared on his YouTube channel, attract millions of views from people fascinated by his unusual passion.
Walking on a leash — and making new friends
One of Toco’s most eye-catching milestones came when he was taken outside on a leash for the first time. Crowds watched as he moved cautiously through public spaces, his costume convincing enough to make passers-by stop and stare.
But the latest development may be the most heartwarming yet: Toco has started to interact with real dogs. In a recent video titled “I Want to Be an Animal,” he can be seen sniffing and playing with other dogs in a park, sparking curiosity — and laughter — from onlookers.
A passion he keeps private
Despite his online fame, Toco admits he hides this side of his life from most people around him. He told the Daily Mail that he doesn’t reveal his hobby to colleagues out of fear of being judged. Even close friends remain in the dark.
“I rarely tell people because I’m afraid they’ll think it’s strange,” he explained in an interview. “My family and friends were very surprised when they learned I had become an animal.”
His hesitation highlights a tension between his personal freedom and the weight of social judgment — a struggle that resonates far beyond his unusual lifestyle choice.
Living his dream, one step at a time
Eight months ago, Toco even experimented with eating dog food to push his experience further. While many see his actions as eccentric, he insists it brings him happiness and fulfillment. And as he slowly gains the confidence to engage with both people and pets, his story continues to captivate audiences worldwide.
For Toco, becoming a dog isn’t about gimmicks — it’s about living out a dream, no matter how unconventional it seems to others.
