It’s been a quarter of a century since Buckles first appeared on the funny pages documenting the (mis)adventures of an insecure yet incredibly lovable dog, his family, his companions (that include a flea and other backyard friends), and his one true love, Irene (a fire hydrant). Earlier this year, David Gilbert, Buckles creator, announced he would end the strip’s 25-year print run. But good news for Buckles fans: The archive will be running in its entirety here on GoComics, with the possibility of new work by Gilbert popping up. We chatted with Gilbert about saying “sit and stay” to his charming and naive pal, and what’s next for both of them.

After a successful 25-year run in syndication, you retired Buckles. How has that experience gone so far for you?

Retiring Buckles has been both a happy and sad transition. While I love not having a looming deadline to meet, I do miss the fun of being in Buckles’ world. 

What was the original inspiration for the strip? (Did you have a neurotic, overly worried dog?)

There was really never an inspiration for Buckles himself. Though, I did have a couple dogs when I was a child, which could have been an influence. A lot of Buckles’ personality comes from making fun at my own personality.  

What’s one thing people don’t know about Buckles? About you?

One thing people don’t know about Buckles is what type of dog he is. In fact, even Buckles doesn’t know, which is one of his insecurities. But, I think it’s the mystery that makes him who he is. About me: Something not cartooning related is that I love retro arcade games from the '80s. 

We feel very fortunate to be able to carry the archives on GoComics! Are there any arcs or storylines in particular that you’re excited will be resurfaced?

It’s difficult to narrow down to any specific storyline. He had so many throughout the years, and his personality made any situation that he was in interesting. I suppose the longer stories intrigued me the most. They had more time to develop the situation and allowed the characters and story arc more freedom.  

In 25 years of Buckles, what makes you most proud?

The thing that makes me the most proud of Buckles has to be the connection the readers have with the strip. I’ve been told throughout the years from letters and emails how Buckles has brought out every emotion. Some wrote to say they laughed, others cried during storylines, and some even have written to tell me how angry or proud they were at the actions of certain characters. 

What’s next for you?

There are a few things on my mind including a new idea for a comic strip.

And for Buckles—what do you think he’s up to right now?

Buckles is most likely napping the day away on his sleeping rug.

And finally, we love to ask all our creators this: What comics do you read every day?

I enjoy going back and reading older comic strips like Calvin and Hobbes or Bloom County. 

Be sure to follow Buckles on GoComics, where it will be re-started from the very beginning, starting today.