The proud, heroic, and loving Johannes is the novel’s protagonist. His coat has a “dappled coloring” (37), which offers a clue that he is half-coyote. Johannes takes great pride in his remarkable speed, the lifelong liberty he enjoys as a free dog, and his work as the park’s Eyes. For example, during his captivity, the dog assures himself that his important role guarantees a speedy rescue: “I was of value! I was the Eyes! My absence would be noticed!” (51). At several points in the story, Johannes demonstrates heroism, such as when he rescues a drowning toddler from a pond and when he concocts a daring escape plan for the bison. Johannes is conscious of his desire for adventure and holds himself to heroic ideals. At the end of the story, he bravely endures his longing for his old home by reminding himself, “Heroes go forth. To be alive is to go forth. So we went forth” (249). Another of Johannes’s prominent traits is his loving nature. He cares deeply about his companions, and he draws on his exuberant love of life to save his best friend: “‘Bertrand,’ I yelled. ‘There is more!’” (243).

As the narrator and main character, Johannes guides the plot and themes.