Rick and Morty Season 9, Episode 5 Features Return of Snowball, the Intelligent Dog From the Show’s First Episode

Rick and Morty’s Season 9, Episode 5, titled “Jer Bud,” sees the return of Snowball, the intelligent dog first introduced in the show’s debut episode, “Lawnmower Dog,” according to official announcements and interviews with the series’ creators. The episode, which aired on June 21, 2024, marks a long-awaited payoff to a gag first introduced in 2013, as Morty visits Snowball’s planet, where the dog has established a dystopian society. The storyline, described by showrunner Scott Marder as a “The Last King of Scotland-type” narrative, explores themes of power, ethics, and the consequences of unchecked ambition.

What Happens in Rick and Morty Season 9, Episode 5?

In “Jer Bud,” Morty travels to Snowball’s planet, where the dog has created a society by selectively breeding a hominid species to serve as pets. Snowball, who previously led a rebellion against humans, now grapples with the moral implications of his actions. The episode escalates when Morty is drawn into a hominid uprising, leading to a violent conflict that leaves Snowball’s planet in ruins. The storyline mirrors real-world issues like animal exploitation and genetic manipulation, according to the show’s creative team.

“It felt like it had a lot of fun conflict there,” said Scott Marder, showrunner of Rick and Morty, in an interview with Polygon. “Morty returning to a complicated relationship with an old friend who’s gotten himself in an even more complicated situation.”

Why Snowball’s Return Matters to the Series

Snowball’s return is significant as it ties back to the show’s earliest episodes, showcasing the series’ commitment to weaving long-term narrative threads. The character first appeared in “Lawnmower Dog,” where he gained intelligence, built a robotic suit, and led a rebellion against humans. The episode ended with a meta-joke suggesting a potential spin-off, a reference that the writers have since revisited.

Series creator Dan Harmon confirmed the intentional buildup to Snowball’s return. “That first episode with Snowball specifically ended with a meta reference to the idea of a spin-off or something, so it was deliberately like maybe there will be more to this story,” Harmon told Polygon. The episode’s exploration of Snowball’s moral ambiguity reflects the show’s broader themes of existentialism and ethical dilemmas.

How Does the Episode Fit Into Rick and Morty’s Legacy?

“Jer Bud” continues Rick and Morty’s tradition of blending dark humor with social commentary. The episode’s focus on animal rights and genetic engineering aligns with the show’s history of addressing real-world issues through absurd scenarios. Critics have noted the episode’s parallels to real-world practices like puppy mills, with the hominid species serving as a metaphor for exploited labor.

The episode also highlights the evolving dynamic between Rick and Morty. While Rick often acts as a cynical provocateur, Morty’s journey to Snowball’s planet forces him to confront the consequences of his grandfather’s actions. This tension is a hallmark of the series, which balances character-driven storytelling with sci-fi absurdity.

What’s Next for Snowball and the Rick and Morty Universe?

While the episode ends with Snowball’s planet in ruins, the future of the character remains uncertain. Showrunner Marder hinted at potential for further exploration but acknowledged the challenges of maintaining the show’s pacing. “It won’t take another eight seasons and 13 years to see the character again,” he said, though no official plans for a Snowball spin-off have been announced.

The episode’s release has sparked renewed interest in Snowball’s story, with fans speculating about his potential return. The character’s journey—from a rebellious dog to a morally complex leader—reflects the show’s ability to reinvent its characters while staying true to its irreverent tone.