Naruto Shock: Fourth Hokage Almost Was a Dog!

This article contains spoilers from the Naruto series.

Summary

Minato Namikaze was almost a ninja dog
Editors advised Kishimoto against animal Hokage
Minato’s legacy as Fourth Hokage saved the world

Enthusiasts of the Naruto series hold a special affection for the elite ninjas of Konoha, not just because they’re powerful, but also due to their connection to the Flame Symbol, symbolizing leadership and village protection. Over the years, Konoha has had many Hokage, but none have garnered as much popularity as the Fourth Hokage, Minato, who stands out among Naruto series characters.

Readers widely recognize the Fourth Hokage as a legendary figure with an extraordinary power reserve, yet he’s celebrated not just for his immense might, but also for being a hero who frequently rescued Konoha in times of need. Manga artist Kishimoto crafted an exceptional character in Minato Namikaze, but the outcome could have drastically differed had Kishimoto persisted with his initial concept.

The Fourth Hokage Of Konoha And His Legacy

The Fourth Hokage Saved The World

In terms of the Fourth Hokage, it’s widely recognized that he was an exceptional character, appearing infrequently throughout history like a legendary figure. Minato was so highly regarded that even esteemed figures like Hiruzen Sarutobi and Jiraiya acknowledged his unmatched abilities; Hiruzen himself made this claim after witnessing Hashirama in action. It’s clear that Minato was exceptionally strong, and his performance during the Third Great Ninja War solidified this fearsome reputation across shinobi villages. He ultimately won the war for Konoha on his own. Minato served as Hokage at an unusually young age and was known for his compassionate yet powerful leadership.

I won’t fail. I have responsibilities on my shoulders too! — Minato Namikaze

On the fateful day when the Nine-Tails attacked, Minato, the Fourth Hokage, successfully battled and vanquished Obito Uchiha, followed by subduing the Nine-Tails itself. He then split the beast’s power in half: one portion he retained within himself, while the other was enclosed within his newborn son, Naruto Uzumaki. By averting a catastrophe and bestowing upon his son the power to save the world, Minato ensured its survival. It is chilling to fathom that if Kishimoto had stuck with his initial concept for the Fourth Hokage, none of this would have transpired.

Kishimoto Wanted The Fourth Hokage To Be A Dog

Kishimoto Wanted A Ninja Dog To Be A Hokage
The Idea Was Eventually Discarded

When Masashi Kishimoto created “Naruto,” he harbored an unusual fascination with weaving animal themes into his narrative. Initially, Kishimoto envisioned the Third Hokage as a monkey, and Naruto was originally conceived as a fox with the ability to transform into a human. Interestingly, many are unaware that Kishimoto harbored similar plans for the Fourth Hokage as well. In an interview, Kishimoto revealed his intention to portray the Fourth Hokage as a dog.

I have faith in you, Naruto. You’re my son after all! — Minato

Readers are aware that, as designed by Kishimoto, the mountain bearing carvings of past village leaders also depicts the Fourth Hokage’s visage, which initially was planned to be a powerful dog instead of Minato’s face. This decision was made to introduce a strong canine character in the narrative.

As a die-hard Naruto fan, I can’t help but draw a parallel between Kakashi’s loyal companion, the ninken, and the vision Kishimoto held for the Hokage. This four-legged ninja embodied Kishimoto’s dream of Konoha having once been led by a canine leader – a notion he was deeply invested in, but unfortunately, it remained unrealized in the grand scheme of things.

How Kishimoto’s Editors Helped Him Create The Fourth Hokage

Kishimoto’s Editors Advised Against The Animal Hokage Idea

Kishimoto had enthusiastically supported his concept for an animal Hokage, but his editor held reservations about it. The editor believed that Kishimoto was veering off from the intended direction of the Naruto series and slipping back into familiar storytelling techniques. He cautioned against incorporating a dog as Hokage in the narrative. In addition, it was the editor who proposed the idea for the Fourth Hokage to be a mysterious ninja, eventually revealed to be Naruto’s father.

Without a doubt, it’s well-known among fans that the storyline revolving around the Fourth Hokage in Naruto is exceptional. Interestingly enough, the concept involving a dog might not have thrived under different circumstances. However, this revision in the narrative was undoubtedly a smart move on the part of the story’s editors.

You can find Naruto manga on MangaPlus and the Shonen Jump app, where fans can access the official releases and contribute to the author’s success by reading it there.

2025-04-04 00:24