Heen

Overview

Heen is a supporting character in Studio Ghibli's animated feature film Howl's Moving Castle. Originally serving as the errand hound and familiar for the royal sorceress Madame Suliman, he encounters Sophie Hatter during her journey to the capital. Though sent to keep watch on Howl and his companions, Heen eventually drifts away from his official duties and settles into the eccentric household of Howl's moving castle as a quiet, comical pet. He provides comedic relief throughout the narrative with his unbothered demeanor amidst high-stakes magical conflicts.

Appearance

Heen resembles a shaggy, mop-like terrier featuring an elongated body set on extremely short legs. He is depicted with soft, droopy ears and a perpetually sad expression that gives his face an old-man-like appearance. His overall physical structure is remarkably low to the ground due to his brief limbs and long frame.

Personality

Heen is extremely laid-back, lazy, and opportunistic. He possesses very little stamina and dislikes exerting physical effort, often preferring to be carried rather than walk on his own. Despite being assigned to act as a secret operative, he is utterly lacking in urgency or hostility. He is drawn to kindness and quickly forms an affection for Sophie Hatter, leading him to abandon his original duties in favor of a comfortable life with Howl's companions.

Abilities

Rather than barking like a standard canine, Heen communicates through distinctive wheezing and coughing sounds. He serves as Madame Suliman's familiar and errand dog, capable of covert surveillance. Furthermore, he possesses the ability to establish magical communication across distances, utilizing a magic mirror to contact Madame Suliman directly.

Background

Originally kept as a familiar by the royal sorceress Madame Suliman, Heen was dispatched to interact with Sophie Hatter when she arrived at the royal palace. Mistaken by Sophie for Howl in disguise, he followed her through the palace and was eventually taken back to Howl's moving castle. Although tasked with spying on the household for his original mistress, Heen quickly grew fond of the household atmosphere. By the end of the narrative, he chooses to remain with Sophie and Howl, using a magic mirror to inform Madame Suliman of his decision to stay behind.

Relationships

Heen was originally owned by Madame Suliman, who used him as an errand animal and spy, though she later lightheartedly brands him a traitor when he refuses to return. He develops a strong bond with Sophie Hatter, who initially mistook him for Howl; her gentle nature wins his loyalty. He also integrates seamlessly into the household alongside Howl, Markl, and Calcifer, becoming a cherished pet within their makeshift family circle.

Trivia

Heen's distinct wheezing vocalizations and impassive face make him one of the most recognizable comedic elements of the film. His decision to casually contact Madame Suliman via a magical mirror at the story's conclusion highlights his unbothered, independent streak, cementing his role as a fan-favorite mascot.