From Fantasy to Reality: YouTuber Who Spent $14,000 to “Become a Dog” Launches a One-of-a-Kind “Zoo”

Have you ever dreamed of transforming into your favourite animal? One YouTuber has taken that dream to an unbelievable level — and now, he’s inviting others to do the same. Toco, a canine-obsessed YouTuber, made headlines when he spent an astonishing $14,000 to fulfil his childhood fantasy of becoming a dog. But this isn’t just a story about a quirky internet personality. Toco has now turned his dream into a reality by opening a “zoo” that allows others to live their wildest animal fantasies.

A Dream Comes True: Toco’s Fascination with Dogs

Toco’s journey started with an odd fascination with dogs. For most of us, this might mean a simple love of man’s best friend, but for Toco, it sparked a lifelong ambition: to become a dog — or at least live like one. He didn’t just admire dogs from afar. In a truly remarkable move, Toco spent thousands of dollars on a realistic Border Collie suit, a transformation so detailed it’s hard to believe it’s not a real dog.

But what’s even more fascinating is that Toco doesn’t just dress up as a dog for fun — he lives like one. From spending his days in a crate to participating in agility courses, Toco’s commitment to this transformation has captivated fans all over the world. His YouTube channel, which showcases his dog-imitating antics, has drawn in a community of like-minded enthusiasts who share his passion.

Want to see Toco in action? Check out his YouTube channel here.

Introducing Tocotoco Zoo: Where Humans Can Live Out Their Animal Fantasies

Now, Toco is taking his canine dreams to the next level. In January 2025, he opened the Tocotoco Zoo in Japan — a place where visitors can become animals themselves. Inspired by his own childhood dreams, Toco created this unique zoo concept to give others the chance to live their animal fantasies, just as he has.

The idea is simple yet revolutionary: guests can wear realistic mascot costumes to embody their chosen animal, and in doing so, experience life through the eyes of their favorite creatures. Toco took to Instagram to announce this groundbreaking project, telling followers:

“We are opening a zoo where you can become an animal, where you can make your dream of becoming an animal come true!”

Follow Toco’s Instagram to stay updated on the zoo’s latest news.

It’s clear that this isn’t just about costumes. Toco is offering something deeper — an opportunity for individuals to experience a fantasy come to life.

Social Media Buzz: Toco’s Announcement Takes the Internet by Storm

Toco’s announcement on social media about the opening of Tocotoco Zoo quickly captured the attention of animal lovers, fantasy enthusiasts, and curious onlookers alike. His Instagram post in October 2024 garnered thousands of reactions, with fans sharing their excitement and tagging friends who would love to become animals themselves.

Here’s the text of Toco’s Instagram post that got everyone talking:

“We are opening a zoo where you can become an animal, where you can make your dream of becoming an animal come true! I’ve had the dream of becoming an animal since I was a child, and I’ve made it come true in the form of a mascot costume. When I was young, I thought, ‘It would be nice if there was a service where you could become an animal. Maybe there is something I can do now for people who have the same thoughts as me?’”

You can check out the post on his Instagram page, and see how people are reacting to this one-of-a-kind concept.

Additionally, Toco shared the exciting details of the zoo’s opening day and the Alaskan Malamute costume rental via this post, sparking conversations about how immersive and realistic the experience will be.

Fans are especially eager to see Toco’s dream of becoming a dog spread to others who share his passion.

“Living the dream as a Malamute! 🐾 Anyone else ready to become an animal?” — Toco’s Instagram post

The Cost of Living the Dream: $250 for a Dog Transformation

Opening the doors of the Tocotoco Zoo has brought with it a new set of challenges and rewards. As of January 26, 2025, the zoo is officially open for business, and the concept has taken off. The zoo’s website currently offers one animal transformation option: becoming an Alaskan Malamute, a majestic and large breed of dog known for its fluffy coat and strong presence.

While Toco’s own Border Collie suit is not available for hire, the Alaskan Malamute suit is an incredibly popular option for visitors. But living out your doggy dreams doesn’t come cheap. For $250, you can rent the Alaskan Malamute suit for a morning or afternoon session. It’s a hefty price tag, but for those eager to step into the paws of a majestic dog, it might just be worth it.

The suit rental requires reservations at least 30 days in advance, and guests are warned that those with stiff muscles might have a difficult time getting into the suit — something to consider before committing to this immersive experience.

Curious about the experience? Find more details on the zoo’s official website.

Why Choose a Malamute? The Fascinating Reason Behind Toco’s Animal Preference

When Toco shared his vision of the zoo, he explained why he chose certain animals, and why he favors large, long-haired breeds like the Border Collie and Alaskan Malamute. His reasoning is rooted in both his personal preference and the desire for realistic design.

Toco admitted to Mynavi, a Japanese media outlet, that he chose the Border Collie because it was both a breed he had always liked and a practical option for creating a realistic, life-like costume. He also shared that long-haired dogs, like the Border Collie, were ideal for concealing the human body underneath, making it easier for him to “become” the dog and not just wear a costume.

When it comes to the Alaskan Malamute suit, Toco also explained that the fluffy, thick fur helps to disguise the human body underneath, making it more believable and immersive for those who want to feel like they are truly experiencing life as an animal.

The Fascination with Animal Roleplay: Why Do People Want to “Become” Dogs?

Toco’s journey and the success of his zoo raise a thought-provoking question: Why do people want to become animals? While Toco’s passion for dogs has been well-documented, there’s a larger cultural fascination with animal roleplay. Many people find solace in connecting with animals, whether through empathy, escape, or just the sheer joy of experiencing the world through a different perspective.

For some, the idea of becoming an animal taps into a desire for freedom, simplicity, and connection to nature. It’s a way to step outside the constraints of modern life and embrace something more instinctual and pure.

What’s your take on animal roleplay? Join the conversation on social media using #TocoZoo.

Whether it’s for fun, therapeutic reasons, or a deep personal connection to animals, the idea of “becoming” an animal has a unique appeal. And thanks to Toco’s vision, many are now able to bring this fantasy to life.

Could Toco’s “Zoo” Be the Future of Immersive Experiences?

As the popularity of VR (Virtual Reality) experiences and other immersive technologies continues to grow, Toco’s zoo represents a unique blend of fantasy and reality. While other businesses focus on digital transformations, Tocotoco Zoo offers a very physical, hands-on experience.

Could this type of immersive roleplay be the next big trend in entertainment? It’s hard to say, but with Toco’s innovative approach, there’s no doubt that the world will be watching closely to see how his zoo evolves in the coming months.

Final Thoughts: A World Where You Can Be Anything You Want

In a world where technology is making the impossible seem possible, Toco’s journey from a dog-loving YouTuber to a fantasy zoo owner is both inspiring and captivating. His ability to turn a childhood dream into a business venture has opened up a whole new realm of possibility for people who have always wanted to live out their animal fantasies. Whether you’re looking for an escape from reality or simply want to experience life as a dog, Toco’s Tocotoco Zoo offers an experience unlike any other.

So, are you ready to put on the suit and become an animal? The next adventure is just a reservation away!

Follow Toco’s journey and see how this fantasy continues to unfold! Check out his Instagram for updates.

Featured Image Credit: toco.ev/Instagram