Free tools Windows power users keep installed
One-click scans. No signup required.
Raider, a rescue Lab mix adopted from Labs & More, has joined the crew of the USS Makin Island as a Navy Morale Dog, according to a report published October 2, 2026. Shelter to Soldier trained him for the role. His “Lieutenant” title refers to an honorary commissioning, not a conventional Navy officer rank.
From rescue dog to shipboard companion
Raider’s story began with Labs & More, which Shelter to Soldier identified as the rescue organization from which he was adopted. Shelter to Soldier then trained him for its Navy Morale Dog Program. An earlier profile described Raider as a two-year-old Lab mix preparing to become a Ship Morale Dog; that age reflected the profile at the time, not necessarily his age today.
Shelter to Soldier’s 2025 annual report had projected that Raider would join USS Makin Island in late summer 2025. Its later 2025–26 impact report records a separate milestone: Raider was officially commissioned aboard the ship in November 2025. In October 2026, iHeartDogs reported that he had deployed aboard USS Makin Island and was designated a FIDO, or Fleet Integrated Dog Operator. The deployment update is attributed to that report; it should not be confused with the nonprofit’s earlier commissioning account.
What does a Navy morale dog do?
Shelter to Soldier says its Morale Dog Program places trained facility dogs aboard U.S. Navy vessels and at military installations. The nonprofit describes the dogs as formally recognized as Expeditionary Facility Dogs serving within the Navy’s Expanded Operational Stress Control program, which it says is intended to reduce stigma around seeking help, encourage early intervention, and strengthen resilience.
#1 Best Overall
- ANCHORS AWEIGH! Our Bill the Goat Knottie Plush dog toy is perfect for playful pups and proud Navy fans. This squeaky mascot toy brings U.S. Naval Academy spirit to game day or everyday fun!
- PERFECT FOR PUPPIES AND DOGS OF ALL SIZES: Our dog toys are made durable and tough to withstand some rough play, making them a reliable choice for puppies, small dogs, and large dogs alike
- DURABLE CONSTRUCTION: HuggleHounds Knotties dog toys are crafted with exclusive Tuffut Technology, featuring a two-layer lining that ensures long-lasting durability with a soft and cuddly exterior
- SQUEAK FOR JOY: This plush dog toy has five squeakers inside to provide non-stop entertainment, keeping your puppy engaged during playtime. Large toy measures about 15" tall x 9" wide x 3" deep
- TRUSTED QUALITY: Backed by Huggle Group's commitment to quality, Knotties are the ultimate stuffed dog toy, made to last with durable materials and designed with love for dogs of all sizes
For Raider, the work is companionship and morale support—not patrol, detection, or combat duty. Shelter to Soldier says morale dogs learn obedience, shipboard navigation, and therapeutic interaction so they can offer emotional support during deployments, high-stress operations, and ordinary service life. iHeartDogs reported that Raider would support more than 2,500 Sailors and Marines aboard the ship. That is a reported audience for his support, not a measured mental-health outcome.
The USS Midway Museum’s Fall 2025 publication quoted Lt. Cmdr. Emily Deloria, USS Makin Island’s senior medical officer, saying, “The crew is very excited for Raider to be on board.” iHeartDogs also relayed Shelter to Soldier’s description of the comfort it hopes he will bring as “a little piece of home.”
Rank #2
- 13 inches in size.
- High quality materials make for a soft and fluffy touch.
- Quality materials for a soft cuddling experience
- Posable floppy arms and legs for limitless fun!
- Unique understuffed body.
How Raider’s care is organized aboard ship
Shelter to Soldier’s command guidance recommends that a participating ship or command designate three to five handlers to rotate daily care. The nonprofit says handlers conduct routine wellness checks and maintain grooming and hygiene, with access to the dog encouraged across departments and ranks. Its guidance also calls for attention to operational-security and public-affairs rules when sharing photos or other media.
The organization says its support includes handler instruction, evaluations, ongoing guidance, emergency planning, veterinary care, and a gear package with vests, leashes, a crate, bowls, and grooming tools. Shelter to Soldier says it retains ownership of its Morale Dogs and financial responsibility for them in perpetuity. It describes the program as community funded, with no financial necessity from the Department of Defense. These are the nonprofit’s stated arrangements and guidance, rather than independently verified Navy-wide policy.
Outdated Drivers Are Slowing You Down
One free scan finds every outdated or missing driver and matches the right update for your exact hardware.Free scan · exact hardware matchPC Slower Than It Used to Be?
A free scan shows the junk files, broken settings and background clutter dragging Windows down - then fixes them in one click.Free scan · Windows 10 & 11Rank #3
- 🧸🧸【Unparalleled Durability】: The Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is not just any ordinary toy. It's an Indestructible Robust Dog Toy designed to withstand even the most vigorous play. This makes it perfect for heavy chewers who usually tear through toys quickly. The Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is made to last, providing an enduring source of fun for your dog.With its realistic bear design and sturdy construction, your pup will love playing with this toy for hours on end.
- 🧸🧸【Promotes Healthy Chewing】: An excellent benefit of our Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is that it promotes healthy chewing habits. This Indestructible Robust Dog Toy is designed to satisfy your dog's natural instinct to chew, while also being gentle on their teeth and gums. Whether your pup loves to play fetch or cuddle up with a soft toy, our Indestructible Robust Bear Dog Toy has got you covered.
- 🧸🧸【Engaging and Interactive Fun】: Keep your dog entertained for hours with the Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers. This Indestructible Robust Dog Toy is designed to hold your dog's interest, making it a great way to keep them mentally stimulated. With the Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers, your dog gets an engaging plaything and you get peace of mind.
- 🧸🧸【 Internal Vocalization 】: Dog Plush Toy Contains Sound Sacs That Will Squeak if the Dog Bites It. Attracting the Dog's Attention and Makes the Dog Find More Interests. the Squeaky Toys for Dogs Will Let Dogs Enjoy Themselves Even They Are Alone at Home.
- 🧸🧸【A Perfect Gift】: The Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is not just an Indestructible Robust Dog Toy, it's an investment in your dog's happiness. Given its durability, this toy will last far longer than standard dog toys, saving you money in the long run. Choose the Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers for a toy that's as practical as it is fun.
What Raider’s new title means
Raider’s commissioning as a Lieutenant is an honorary recognition associated with his role; it does not make him a Navy officer in the ordinary military sense. His FIDO designation—Fleet Integrated Dog Operator—is the title iHeartDogs reported alongside his deployment. The role described by Shelter to Soldier remains that of a trained facility dog offering companionship and therapeutic interaction.
Independent reader supportYour contribution helps us test, update, and keep practical guides available for everyone.What is known about the program’s benefits
Shelter to Soldier describes morale dogs as a way to provide emotional support and strengthen resilience, but the materials cited here do not establish a quantified clinical effect or a measured improvement in mental-health outcomes. Raider’s mission can be described as support for the crew without claiming that the program has proven treatment results.
Quick Recap
Best Value
- 🧸🧸【Unparalleled Durability】: The Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is not just any ordinary toy. It's an Indestructible Robust Dog Toy designed to withstand even the most vigorous play. This makes it perfect for heavy chewers who usually tear through toys quickly. The Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is made to last, providing an enduring source of fun for your dog.With its realistic bear design and sturdy construction, your pup will love playing with this toy for hours on end.
- 🧸🧸【Promotes Healthy Chewing】: An excellent benefit of our Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is that it promotes healthy chewing habits. This Indestructible Robust Dog Toy is designed to satisfy your dog's natural instinct to chew, while also being gentle on their teeth and gums. Whether your pup loves to play fetch or cuddle up with a soft toy, our Indestructible Robust Bear Dog Toy has got you covered.
- 🧸🧸【Engaging and Interactive Fun】: Keep your dog entertained for hours with the Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers. This Indestructible Robust Dog Toy is designed to hold your dog's interest, making it a great way to keep them mentally stimulated. With the Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers, your dog gets an engaging plaything and you get peace of mind.
- 🧸🧸【 Internal Vocalization 】: Dog Plush Toy Contains Sound Sacs That Will Squeak if the Dog Bites It. Attracting the Dog's Attention and Makes the Dog Find More Interests. the Squeaky Toys for Dogs Will Let Dogs Enjoy Themselves Even They Are Alone at Home.
- 🧸🧸【A Perfect Gift】: The Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers is not just an Indestructible Robust Dog Toy, it's an investment in your dog's happiness. Given its durability, this toy will last far longer than standard dog toys, saving you money in the long run. Choose the Dog Companion For Heavy Chewers for a toy that's as practical as it is fun.
Rank #4
- Funny Parody Plush Dog Toy for Stylish Playtime: Delight your pup and showcase their personality with the Dogior Saddle Bag plush squeaky dog toy inspired by luxury designer handbag fashion; featuring the iconic Dogior pattern in navy blue, a gold-tone "D" charm accent, embroidered details, and hidden squeaker and crinkle inside, this chic puppy toy brings runway-inspired fun to every play session; perfect for gifting, photoshoots, social-worthy moments, or everyday fun
- Interactive Play Encourages Engagement & Comfort: Designed for daily playtime, crate cuddle sessions, travel comfort, indoor supervised play, or backyard fun, this dog chew toy helps encourage engagement while keeping dogs mentally stimulated and reducing boredom; ideal for fetch, light tug, gentle chew sessions, cuddle time, or interactive bonding with pet parents
- Soft Plush Materials with Reinforced Durability: Crafted with soft premium plush fabric, embroidered accents, inner stuffing, a hidden squeaker, and crackle material for engaging sound stimulation; this soft dog plush toy features reinforced mesh lining and durable layered construction designed for longer-lasting supervised indoor or outdoor play; ideal for light to moderate chewers
- Ideal Size for Small to Medium Dogs & Gentle Chewers: Measuring 6"x5"x2", this crinkle dog toy is recommended for puppies, small to medium dogs up to approximately 35 lbs that enjoy plush toys and supervised play; ideal for playful puppies and adult dogs who enjoy funny dog toys; lightweight and easy to carry, toss, cuddle, and travel with
- Machine Washable & Giftable Collectible Toy: Machine washable for easy care - simply wash cold and tumble dry low - our dog squeak toys make a fun addition to any stylish dog toy collection and are great for birthdays, holidays, puppy gifts, playdates, pet parents, puppy owners, and dog lovers who appreciate fashionable pet accessories; it pairs perfectly with Haute Diggity Dog favorites like bottle plush pet toys, squeaky bones, matching bowls, and birthday-themed toys; since 2004, we’ve offered original designer parody squeaky dog toys and dog accessories inspired by fan-favorite parody collections like Starbarks, Chewy Vuiton, Grrrona, and Lick Croix
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
