Ep 5. The Dog That Rocks the Cradle

The Dog That Rocks the Cradle is the fifth episode of the seventh season of the hit sitcom Frasier. The episode originally aired on November 4, 1999, and was directed by Kathryn Baker and written by Lori Kirkland and Bob Daily.

The premise of the episode involves the Crane family and their beloved Jack Russell Terrier, Eddie. In a classic sitcom twist, Eddie falls in love with a female dog named Lulu, leading to a surprise litter of puppies. As the family works to care for the puppies, they face a number of challenges and mishaps that threaten to upend their carefully crafted lives.

As always, the episode is driven by the dynamic between the show's central characters. Frasier (played by Kelsey Grammer) is at the forefront, grappling with his own anxieties over his role as a father figure to Eddie's puppies. Meanwhile, his father, Martin (played by John Mahoney), is in his element as a caretaker, relishing the chance to bond with the adorable new additions to the family.

Other key characters in the episode include Frasier's brother, Niles (played by David Hyde Pierce), who struggles to come to terms with his own dog-related anxieties, and the ever-reliable Daphne (played by Jane Leeves), who plays a key role in helping to care for the puppies.

Despite the lighthearted premise, the episode does not shy away from some of the more serious emotions that often accompany pet ownership. At times, the characters are forced to confront their own fears and insecurities, leading to some touching moments of vulnerability and raw emotion.

Overall, The Dog That Rocks the Cradle is a charming and heartwarming episode that is sure to delight fans of the show. With its witty writing, strong performances from the ensemble cast, and relatable themes, it is a testament to the enduring appeal of one of television's most beloved sitcoms.