September 12, 2025, 12:03 pm | Read time: 3 minutes
The Hollywood celebrity Jennifer Aniston revealed on the talk show “Late Night Show with Stephen Colbert” on September 10, 2025, how she came to have her first dog, Norman. What all this has to do with a small, intriguing tattoo, you can find out at PETBOOK.
Chance on the Set of “Friends”
Jennifer Aniston, Hollywood star and 56 years old, has experienced just about everything in her career—from “Friends” favorite to award-winning actress. Yet her most beautiful supporting role wasn’t in the spotlight but alongside a dog named Norman.
During a shoot for the famous U.S. series “Friends,” several dogs were hired for a scene. In the episode “The One with the Baby on the Bus,” the characters Joey and Chandler frantically run through the streets of the big city after forgetting a baby on a bus. The script called for them to run into a man with many dogs. Among the many extra dogs was Norman—and the little four-legged friend immediately stole Jennifer Aniston’s heart.
Jennifer Aniston and Her Great Love
Norman had character, as he stood out by completely refusing to do his job as an actor. “He won’t be hired anymore because he just doesn’t do what he’s supposed to,” joked the trainers. Aniston laughed and replied, “Well, then I’ll just take him!” And before she knew it, she was not only a series favorite but also a new dog owner. The stubborn set refuser became Jennifer’s first best friend on four paws—and the start of a great, furry love story. 1 2
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One Heart and Soul – Jennifer Aniston & Norman
Norman was not just a companion; he was the dog who made Jennifer a dog lover in the first place. “He was my first,” she later emphasized in interviews, “and it was just a coincidence.” Norman stayed by Jennifer’s side until 2011—his death was a profound loss for the actress. But her love for him lives on. As a quiet yet powerful reminder, she carries his name as a tattoo on her foot. A small gesture that serves as a tribute to her beloved four-legged friend.
Two Dogs and a Cookbook
Today, Jennifer Aniston shares not only the sofa but also the creative stage with her current dogs, Lord Chesterfield and Clyde. Clyde, in particular, has made a career: Inspired by his charming nature, Jennifer Aniston published the children’s cookbook “Cook with Clydeo”—as if her four-legged friend had personally been at the stove. It features easy recipes like fluffy banana pancakes or little enchilada cups that bring as much joy as a wagging tail. And Clyde has long developed a taste for it: Two more “co-projects” with him are already in the works.