: This episode is often cited as a "Wham Episode" because it marks the transition of Brian from being treated mostly as a dog to being characterized as a more complex, human-like intellectual.
In the Family Guy Season 1 finale, "," the story centers on Brian's struggle with his identity as a "second-class citizen" after Peter enters him into a dog show to win money for a new air conditioner. Key Themes and Cultural Parody I Griffin 1x7
: The final scene of Brian drinking from a "people" water fountain is a direct nod to the 1974 film's ending . : This episode is often cited as a
: This episode features the first appearance of Stewie's iconic teddy bear, Rupert . : This episode features the first appearance of
The episode is noted for its heavy use of social commentary and cultural references, particularly regarding civil rights:
: Brian's emotional courtroom plea ("If you scratch him, does his leg not shake?") parodies Shylock’s "Hath not a Jew eyes?" speech from Shakespeare's The Merchant of Venice .
: Brian is the only character for whom creator Seth MacFarlane uses his natural speaking voice, and he has often cited Brian as his favorite character.