Perhaps Daddy needed a playmate. NuNu, that fierce little pup we once nicknamed the “Demon Chihuahua,” has passed away. NuNu is incredibly special to those of us in the Dog Whisperer family because his was the first case ever filmed for the show and he made his debut as the very first dog featured in the very first episode. None of us could have possibly imagined that this three-pound terror would help launch an international phenomenon.

I directed the NuNu segment back in 2004 and, in the way you never forget your first kiss, you never forget the first time a Chihuahua tries to rip your hand off. NuNu was fiercely possessive of his human, the lovely Tina Madden, and would try to bite anyone who came near her. We were in the process of filming NuNu’s bad behavior (which generally gets shot before Cesar arrives) and we literally needed someone to lend a hand – a hand for NuNu to try and chomp. So, as much as I dislike being on video, that’s my hand NuNu is lunging at in the opening minutes of the story. Cesar worked his magic that day…first on NuNu, then on Tina and her roommate Barclay, and of course, on all of the crew as well. It was amazing to watch NuNu’s extreme make over, changing from a demonic dog with an alien-like growl into a sweet little lover. NuNu ultimately made several appearances over the course of the series and Tina ended up working at Cesar’s original Dog Psychology Center as a handler/assistant. Tina told me that one of NuNu’s favorite pastimes at the Center was humping Daddy’s leg. Apparently, Daddy would just stand there in his calm, balanced way and let NuNu do his thing, until Daddy decided enough was enough – then everybody’s favorite pit would gently shake NuNu off his leg and move on. Little NuNu became one of the most famous Chihuahuas the world has ever known, even beating out Paris Hilton’s Tinkerbell in a popularity poll conducted by The Insider TV series. I’ve probably seen the NuNu Dog Whisperer segment at least fifty times, and I could watch it again right now, because that little devil is just so captivating. It tickles me to know that NuNu’s story is being viewed throughout the world, from the tip of Argentina to Russia, from India to Israel, and from a 72” HDTV to someone’s Ipod. Who knew that this tiny pup with a huge attitude would end up achieving immortality? NuNu’s tale proves Cesar’s belief that a calm assertive pack leader can create transformation, even with a little dog that no one thought could ever change. Everyone except Cesar, of course, who had no doubt he could rehabilitate whatever he encountered that day on the other side of Tina’s front door. Thank you NuNu, for everything you did for Tina -- and for us. Please let Daddy know that we miss him and try not to hump his leg too much. Jim Milio Executive Producer “Dog Whisperer with Cesar Millan”