The dog Paul Anka, portrayed by Sparky, was one of the most memorable characters from the dramedy Gilmore Girls. 

The pooch was owned by the lead character Lorelai Gilmore, played by Lauren Graham. 

The show premiered on October 5, 2000, and concluded after seven successful seasons on May 15, 2007. 

Nine years later, Netflix released its four-episode revival named Gilmore Girls: A Year in the Life on November 25, 2016.

Show creators Daniel Palladino and his wife Amy-Sherman-Palladino returned for the drama's potential last dance.

Actors like Melissa McCarthy, Alexis Bledel, Kelly Bishop, and Graham were among the returnees.

Not to mention, the fan-favorite dog also made his return in the limited series. 

Story of Lorelai Gilmore's Dog Paul Anka

In Gilmore Girls, Anka, originally named Cocoa, was adopted by the lead character in season six.

Gilmore brought the pooch home to fill the void in her life created by her daughter Rory Gilmore's departure.

As per the storyline, Lorelai found Anka at the Stars Hollow Petfinder convention and treated him as her second child thereafter.

Sparky, who played Paul Anka the dog in Gilmore Girls.

Sparky, the star of 'Gilmore Girls' and its spin-off, during the show's filming. (Photo Credit: Instagram)

In consequence, Anka got fairly much screen time throughout season 6. But his appearance decreased as Gilmore, and her daughter mended their relationship.

That being said, the canine's storyline was continued in season seven and beyond, due to fans' demand.

The Dog's Character Was Named After a Singer 

Sparky is a Polish Lowland Sheepdog, often referred to as PON. In the show, the mutt was named after the real-life singer Paul Anka.

He is popularly known for writing the 1960s hit single 'Puppy Love' for actress Annette Funicello and also 'Put Your Head on My Shoulder.'

In 2006, the show's executive producer, writer, and director Palladino opened up why he named the character after the singer.

He recalled he opted for the pupper's name after listening to one of Paul's albums in Starbucks.

Interestingly, the singer made a cameo in a dream sequence in a season six episode, appropriately titled 'The Real Paul Anka.'

Gilmore dreamt about her dog meeting the real musical artist in the installment. The singer did the things the canine would do, like walking with her every day and vice versa.

When the two Anka finally met, their worlds collided, and Gilmore woke up.

Paul Anka's Qualities on the Show

The canine was showcased as a strange pet with many peculiar traits in the drama. He hesitated to walk down the front steps without having something put on his path.

Anka found peas, tissue-holders, lint, CDs, framed photos, and popcorn scary. He hated being tied to a leash and barked at anyone with a watch strapped on their wrists.

He disliked normal toys like rawhide bones and playful toys. On the contrary, the dog liked rare-cooked hamburger

In addition, he had his fork but refrained from eating when Lorelai or anyone else watched him. He would get through the door by himself and also lock car doors.