Have you ever wondered what type of dog Scooby-Doo is? Or another dog you have spotted in a cartoon, movie, on TV, or even in an advert? We are a nation of dog-lovers. Marley and Me had most of the population weeping, we all want John Wick to name his adopted dog (and think he is super cool) and Scooby-Doo is one of the most iconic and much-loved cartoon dogs of all time. Here are the dogs I have fallen in love with over the years. Is your favourite there?
Scooby-Doo
This loveable dog-detective was first created by Hanna-Barbera in 1969 and has been a favourite character of children (and adults) throughout the decades. Scooby-Doo is based on a Great Dane and most Great Dane owners will admit that they are big wimps just like the cartoon portrays. Scrappy-Doo is Scoob’s plucky little nephew and is a fearless Great Dane puppy with the catchphrase “Puppy Power” 💥
Beethoven
When the movie Beethoven came out in 1992 millions instantly fell for the large but likeable Saint Bernard that played Beethoven, the Newton family’s newest member. He helps the children overcome some of their worst fears and problems and even saves the life of the youngest daughter. Although a highly unrealistic, it shows exactly what a dog can bring to a household. And of course, Beethoven foils the plans of an evil veterinarian which is not totally unsurprising for this breed who are still used in rescue missions in Switzerland.
The Andrex Puppy
Undoubtedly the most iconic dog in advertisement, the Andrex puppy has been dragging toilet paper around the house for almost 5 decades. First appearing on our screens in 1972, this Labrador Retriever pup has appeared in over 120 commercials – each one cuter than the last – but of course the puppy ‘actors’ have changed throughout the years. Can you remember your favourite ad?
Andrex has been partnered with Guide Dogs UK Charity for the Blind and Partially Sighted to raise money and train dogs to become guide dogs for many years now and generously gives a percentage of their sales to the cause.
John Wick’s ‘Boy’
Originally John Wick’s dog was a beagle named Daisy that was left to him by his wife to help cope with her death from a terminal illness. However, when Daisy is murder by thieves after his car, John Wick sets out to get his car back and avenge the death of his dog.
The dog that is most featured in the movie franchise is a beautiful blue Pit Bull who he simply calls ‘Boy’. The Pit Bull turns up in the final scenes of the first movie when John Wick rescues him from being euthanised and is then featured in the next two movies.
The third movie also includes some incredible scenes with Halle Berry’s character Sofia and her two Belgian Malinois. These badass guard dogs undeniably steal the show in this movie.
Santa’s Little Helper
Santa’s Little Helper became part of the Simpson family when one Christmas Homer Simpson took the little money he earned as a Santa Claus to the racetrack to bet on a Greyhound. Needless to say, Santa’s Little Helper came in last place. His owner was fed up and abandoned him. Homer and Bart took him home to the family and although they had no money, Santa’s Little Helper made it the best Christmas ever!
He has since been in his fair share of trouble with the various members of the family but has always been able to make his way back into their affections. A popular character in the cartoon show, this Greyhound has lasted the shows entire series with appearances in almost every episode
Hachi, Hachiko Monogatari
A true story that originated from Japan, Hachi follows the story of a Japanese Akita and his Professor owner. Every day Hachi walks with his owner to the local train station where he catches the train to work. Every afternoon Hachi is loyally waiting for his owner to return and walk back with him. When his owner sadly dies Hachi still goes to the train station every day for 10 years to wait for him to return. Over the years employees at the train station and regular passengers spend time with Hachi, sitting with him, petting him, and taking treats for him. The city even erected a statue of him at the train station he was so loved by the community.
Japanese Akitas are well-known for their unwavering loyalty and are fiercely protectiveness of their owners. This story has been passed down through generations and is still a family favourite in many homes in Japan.
Turner and Hooch
A super young Tom Hanks is shown up by his more-talented co-star in the 1989 movie Turner and Hooch. Hooch is a French Mastiff and becomes the unlikely partner of Tom Hank’s character, detective Scott Turner. The slobber-happy mastiff won over hearts in this silly comedy caper about a cop and a dog. And what’s not to love. Mastiffs might be big brutes but they are an affectionate breed that adore their owners.
Beasley the French Mastiff that played Hooch in the movie was only 17 months when he starred in the film and even had a stunt double named Igor. And, his slobbering wasn’t just a funny aspect made up for the film. Beasley slobbered so much, parts of the set and equipment were ruined. Might be worth remembering if you are thinking of getting a Mastiff!
Gidget, Life of Pets
The Secret Life of Pets is a cute cartoon comedy caper that stars a host of dogs but none of them are as adorable as Gigdet. Gidget is a white Pomeranian with a big heart for her fellow pack mates. She is the mastermind behind the rescue plan in the movie after spotting Max and Duke get taken by the Animal Control.
The Pomeranian is classed as a toy dog breed only reaching the heights 7-12inches and weighing in at 4-7 pounds! But they have big personalities and are very active. They are great dogs for kids, which is such as well because demands rose for them after the movies came out. Who wouldn’t want a little fluffball like that!
Marshall, Paw Patrol
Anyone who has had a child in the last decade will be familiar with Nick Junior’s Paw Patrol cartoon. A young boy named Ryder leads a team of dogs in rescue missions. Whilst the Paw Patrol contains various members that include, Chase, Skye and Rocky. A big favourite is the firefighting Dalmatian – Marshall.
Marshall, like most Dalmatians, is always ready to roll but can get over-excited and end up being a bit clumsy. However, overall his is an intelligent member of the crew and always primed for action.
Benji
Benji first appeared on our screens in the 1974 and has since gone on to make 6 more movies starring the loveable canine who has a knack for being in the right places at the right time, usually to help someone in need. The most recent of these movies was 2018 and was directed by Brandon Camp, the son of Benji creator Joe Camp. So you could say that Benji is a true family member of the Camp household.
Benji is a rescue dog and described as a Border Terrier mix-breed. You can certainly see the wired haired Border in him but those ears fall in the Spaniel territory for sure. Not all dogs have pure breed lines, especially those found on the street and taken to shelters but they do all have big hearts and need someone to love them.
Who is your favourite famous dog? Did you grow up and get the dog from that childhood favourite movie? I would love to hear from you and any dog-related stories.