Ep 5. That's My Dog

David, the younger of the two Fisher brothers, has recently been a victim of a carjacking, and is still dealing with the trauma that came with it. His anxiety and agitation have escalated, sending his loved ones into a frenzy of concern. As the episode begins, viewers are presented with a bleak and eerie portrayal of David's deteriorating psyche, as he wanders through the city's abandoned alleyways with a menacing-looking dog he has recently adopted.

Throughout the course of the episode, David's family and friends are shown reaching out to him in attempts to console him or pull him out of his downward spiral. His brother Nate, and his friend and coworker Rico, both try to intervene at separate points, but are met with either hostility or sheer apathy from David. Meanwhile, David's partner Keith is dealing with his own issues at home, as his sister and nephew, who have been living with him, threaten to further strain his already fragile relationship with David.

As the episode progresses and David's state of mind continues to unravel, viewers are taken on a tumultuous ride alongside him, never knowing what to expect next. The dog, who David has named "Chaos," proves to be a particularly volatile presence, acting as a both a manifestation of David's inner turmoil and a threat to those around him.

The episode's title refers to a pivotal scene in which David's behavior reaches its peak, culminating in a string of violence and chaos that leaves his family and friends reeling. Without giving too much away, the episode is an intense and unflinching look at mental illness, trauma, and the repercussions of not seeking help when it is needed.

In addition to the central storyline of David's descent into madness, the episode also touches on the personal and professional struggles of other characters. Nate is dealing with his own fears and anxieties as a new parent, while his wife Brenda is grappling with the realization that her pregnancy may not be going as smoothly as she had hoped. Meanwhile, their mother Ruth is embarking on a new phase in her life, both romantically and creatively, which is not without its own challenges.

Overall, "That's My Dog" is a haunting and emotionally charged episode that solidifies Six Feet Under's reputation as one of the most daring and thought-provoking dramas of its time. Whether or not viewers have experienced similar struggles to those of the characters portrayed on screen, the episode is a reminder of the importance of empathy, communication, and seeking help when one needs it most.