Bob Weatherwax, an iconic figure in Hollywood’s canine world, passed away at the age of 83. Son of Rudd Weatherwax, the original owner and trainer of Lassie, Bob spent his entire life in the entertainment dog training business. Bob grew up assisting his father with dogs at Rudd’s kennels and helping train Hollywood dogs like Lassie. He was even able to claim Lassie as the family pet, as the famous dog Pal was born before Bob was.
After a brief stint in the United States Army, Bob decided to follow in his father’s footsteps and become a Hollywood dog trainer. He honed his skills, eventually establishing Weatherwax Trained Dogs as his brand. Throughout his career, Bob worked with famous dogs such as Asta, Toto, and Old Yeller. He was known for his ability to bond with animals and teach them new skills and tricks, using a reward-based training method that garnered him rave reviews from clients.
Bob was known for his authentic relationship with the dogs he worked with, forming a deep bond based on trust and communication. His team described his ability to connect with the dogs through voice, eye contact, gestures, and physical cues, allowing them to understand his instructions and perform for audiences. Bob’s magic was in his ability to communicate with dogs on a level that went beyond words, creating a unique connection that translated into memorable performances.
Before his passing, Bob enjoyed spending time with his last collie, who was a grandson of the last Weatherwax-trained Lassie. His legacy lives on through the dogs he trained and the impact he had on the entertainment industry, leaving behind a reputation for excellence in dog training. Those closest to Bob believe that his success as a trainer stemmed from his genuine connection with animals and his ability to bring out their potential through trust and understanding.
Bob’s death marks the end of an era in Hollywood’s dog training community, as he was a respected and beloved figure known for his dedication to his craft and his ability to communicate with animals on a profound level. His legacy will continue to live on in the dogs he trained and the memories of those who worked with him. Bob Weatherwax will be remembered as a pioneer in the field of Hollywood dog training, leaving behind a lasting impact on the industry and the lives of the animals he worked with. His influence will be felt for years to come, as those he trained continue to entertain and inspire audiences around the world.
