Popular music often explores themes of love and relationships, but there’s another muse that has captured the hearts of songwriters for generations: our loyal canine companions. From playful pups to wise old hounds, dogs have inspired a diverse range of melodies and lyrics. To celebrate these furry friends, we’ve compiled the best Songs About Dogs, spanning genres and decades. Get ready to wag your tail to this ultimate dog-themed playlist!
Songs About Dogs
Image: A colorful and whimsical illustration showcasing various dog breeds, representing the diverse range of songs about dogs.
46: Sir Mix-A-Lot: Nasty Dog
Sir Mix-A-Lot’s 1994 track “Nasty Dog” takes a playful and metaphorical approach to the canine theme. In this song, the “dog” isn’t a furry pet, but rather the rapper himself, humorously portraying his pursuit of a “kitty cat.” Instead of canine companionship, the song comically focuses on romantic pursuits. Dog barks and woofs are cleverly integrated as percussive elements, adding a unique layer to the track, with Mix-a-Lot’s baritone “bow wow” refrains enhancing the playful canine motif.
45: Norah Jones: Man of the Hour
Times have certainly evolved since Big Mama Thornton famously dismissed a man as a “hound dog.” In Norah Jones’s insightful song, “Man of the Hour,” the canine takes center stage as the preferred companion, outshining a disappointing human counterpart. This tune cleverly contrasts the positive qualities of a dog – loyal, undemanding, and truthful – with the perceived shortcomings of a romantic interest. Jones subtly hints at her subject being a dog, avoiding direct confirmation but dropping clues like the telling bark at the song’s conclusion, making it a witty ode to canine virtues.
44: Carrie Underwood: The More Boys I Meet
Continuing the relatable theme of canine companions surpassing human partners, Carrie Underwood’s “The More Boys I Meet” humorously outlines the many reasons why she finds her beloved pet superior to the men she encounters. The song playfully highlights the uncomplicated affection and loyalty of dogs compared to the complexities of human relationships. Underwood’s lighthearted take on the “dogs vs. boys” concept is delivered with a wink, making it a fun and relatable anthem for dog lovers.
43: Billy Currington: Like My Dog
Billy Currington’s “Like My Dog” offers a humorous, albeit slightly controversial, take on the battle of the sexes, country style. This song, aimed at a male perspective, lists the dog-like behaviors the singer desires from his partner. While the song’s premise might raise eyebrows with its demands, it’s delivered with a tongue-in-cheek approach. The humor lies in the exaggerated comparison of desired partner behaviors to canine actions, intended to be more playful than serious relationship advice.
42: Jane Siberry: Everything Reminds Me of My Dog
Jane Siberry, known for her introspective and often quirky songwriting, explores the overwhelming nature of love in “Everything Reminds Me of My Dog,” extending this theme to her affection for her canine friend. In this song, Siberry’s love for her dog is so profound that she perceives canine resemblances in everyone she encounters. This track ventures into novelty territory with its humorous premise, yet maintains Siberry’s signature quirky charm. The subway anecdote of feeding cookies to a stranger who reminds her of her dog exemplifies the song’s whimsical and affectionate nature.
41: Procol Harum: Every Dog Will Have His Day
Procol Harum appears twice on this list, showcasing their versatility in dog-themed songs. While “Salty Dog” is a metaphorical sea shanty, “Every Dog Will Have His Day” is a more literal and raucous celebration of canines. This song, from the band known for their sophisticated sound, is surprisingly raw and humorous. The lyrics, exploring puppy behavior with a cheeky double entendre, reveal a dog lover with a sharp and playful sense of humor, making it a unique and unexpected entry in their discography.
40: Blake Shelton: Ol’ Red
Country music frequently embraces dog themes, but Blake Shelton’s “Ol’ Red” stands out with its unusually narrative and slightly dark storyline. The song tells a tale of incarceration and canine-assisted escape. The protagonist, imprisoned for a crime of passion, befriends the guard’s dog, Ol’ Red. By strategically introducing a female dog, he orchestrates a romantic distraction for Red, facilitating his own escape. This song blends classic country storytelling with a “shaggy dog story” twist, creating a memorable and unconventional dog song.
39: Neil Young: Old King
Neil Young’s Harvest Moon album from 1992 was conceived as a warm and nostalgic sequel to his earlier Harvest album, and “Old King” perfectly embodies this homespun vibe. This infectiously cheerful track is a straightforward ode to a beloved dog. With Young on banjo and Nicolette Larson providing harmonies, the song radiates a comfortable, folk-infused charm. The backstory of “King” being an in-joke name for his dog Elvis adds a personal and lighthearted touch to this endearing canine tribute.
38: Pirates of the Mississippi: Feed Jake
“Feed Jake,” a 1991 hit for Pirates of the Mississippi, initially presents as a quintessential glossy country ballad of the era, complete with string synthesizers. However, beneath its polished surface lies a layer of social consciousness not always attributed to mainstream country music. The verses subtly address themes of homelessness and discrimination. The song’s core message, however, is universally relatable: the simple yet crucial need for someone to care for our pets in our absence, highlighting the deep bond between humans and their animal companions.
37: Harry Nilsson: The Puppy Song
Harry Nilsson, known for his diverse musical talents, could effortlessly transition from rock anthems to tender ballads and utterly charming tunes. “The Puppy Song” exemplifies his charming side, a bittersweet and catchy song about longing for both canine and human companionship. While upbeat and whimsical on the surface, like many of Nilsson’s most memorable songs, it carries a subtle undercurrent of melancholy. Paul McCartney, recognizing its charm, produced a delightful version for Mary Hopkin, further cementing its status as a classic dog song.
36: Pink Floyd: Seamus
“Seamus” often finds itself at the bottom of Pink Floyd fans’ lists, sometimes misunderstood for its lighthearted nature within their typically epic catalog. However, this track showcases the band’s often-underappreciated humor. The song’s genesis is credited to David Gilmour, who discovered Steve Marriott’s dog could howl on cue. Gilmour then improvised a bluesy jam around the canine vocal performance. An alternate, even more experimental version, known as “Mademoiselle Nobs” and widely bootlegged, features a different dog, further highlighting the song’s playful and improvisational spirit.
35: John Hiatt: My Dog and Me
Beginning with the undeniably relatable line, “How many times can one dog pee,” John Hiatt’s “My Dog and Me” evolves into a surprisingly touching exploration of the unique bond between a man and his dog. The song transcends simple pet ownership, celebrating the profound friendship and unconditional companionship dogs offer. Unexpectedly, despite its opening line and theme, the song avoids a tearful ending, instead concluding with a warm image of man and dog contentedly relaxing by the fire, emphasizing the comforting and enduring nature of their bond.
34: Dolly Parton: Cracker Jack
If you thought Dolly Parton couldn’t become more endearing, “Cracker Jack” from 1973 will surely prove you wrong. This heartwarming song reveals the story of Jack, Dolly’s beloved dog, a stray she nursed back to health. Initially an unreleased track from the iconic “Jolene” and “I Will Always Love You” era, “Cracker Jack” experienced a resurgence in popularity after being featured in her Netflix series, Dolly Parton’s Heartstrings, reminding audiences of Dolly’s genuine warmth and compassion, extending even to stray animals.
33: The Byrds: Old Blue
During the “Eight Miles High” era, The Byrds faced controversy over perceived drug references in their music. Ironically, dog songs became a more prominent theme for the band. The Clarence White-era lineup recorded three dog-themed songs, including the poignant “Fido” and “Bugler.” “Old Blue,” however, stands out as the top dog track among them, a charming bluegrass tribute to a canine friend. Roger McGuinn’s vocals, infused with backwoods charm, perfectly complement the song’s rustic and heartfelt ode to a loyal companion.
32: Lobo: Me and You and a Dog Named Boo
“Me and You and a Dog Named Boo” is a song that encapsulates the early 1970s zeitgeist, both in sound and theme. Musically, it echoes the mellow vibes of Crosby, Stills & Nash and America, while lyrically, it embraces the era’s counter-culture spirit. The song celebrates a simple life of travel, self-sufficiency, and companionship, perfectly embodied by the inclusion of a dog, Boo, as an integral part of their idyllic, free-spirited journey.
31: Henry Gross: Shannon
File “Shannon” alongside Elton John’s “Gulliver/It’s Hay Chewed” and Elvis Presley’s “Old Shep” as one of the most tear-jerking dog songs to ever climb the charts. Complete with a wailing falsetto, the song’s emotional delivery amplifies its poignant subject matter. The Beach Boys’ influence is undeniable, as the dog Shannon belonged to Carl Wilson. This song became Henry Gross’s moment in the spotlight, a departure from his earlier association as a founding member of Sha Na Na, showcasing his ability to deliver heartfelt ballads.
30: Napoleon XIV: They’re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Ha!
It remains astonishing that a song as unconventional as “They’re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Ha!” was released as a single in 1966, let alone reached the Top Five. The song’s humor is undeniably dark and unconventional, revolving around a man seemingly losing his sanity after a romantic breakup. The punchline, delivered with a bizarre twist, reveals the object of his affection is not a person, but a dog, destined for the ASPCA, adding a layer of unexpected and slightly unsettling comedy.
Image: A black and white image of Napoleon XIV, the artist behind the novelty song “They’re Coming to Take Me Away, Ha-Ha!”, known for its unusual and humorous take on heartbreak and dogs.
29: Jethro Tull: Rover
Jethro Tull’s Heavy Horses album is a veritable animal kingdom, featuring songs told from the perspectives of cats, mice, moths, and, of course, horses. “Rover” gives the family dog his moment to shine, celebrating his unwavering loyalty and inherent nobility. This song is a natural fit for Ian Anderson, a well-known animal enthusiast, and reflects his genuine affection for the canine world, highlighting the virtues often found in our four-legged companions.
Image: A promotional image for Jethro Tull’s song “Rover,” likely featuring a dog, symbolizing the track’s focus on canine loyalty and nobility.
28: The Monkees: Gonna Buy Me a Dog
Even The Monkees, masters of lighthearted pop, couldn’t maintain a completely serious demeanor in “Gonna Buy Me a Dog.” This song humorously depicts a lovelorn individual who, after losing his girlfriend, decides to replace her with a dog. Legend has it that Micky Dolenz initially attempted a straight rendition, but Davy Jones’s spontaneous comedic interjections transformed the song into the beloved, whimsical version we know, highlighting the Monkees’ playful and often irreverent style.
Image: A vintage-style image of The Monkees, likely promoting their song “Gonna Buy Me a Dog,” capturing the song’s playful and comedic tone.
27: Johnny Cash: Dirty Old Egg-Sucking Dog
Johnny Cash’s inclusion of “Dirty Old Egg-Sucking Dog” is just one of the many reasons he remains an icon. During the 1960s, amidst collaborations with Bob Dylan and recording socially conscious songs, Cash also found time for comedic gems like this. While not exactly children’s music (the Folsom Prison audience’s enthusiastic reaction is testament to that), the song is undeniably hilarious. Its comedic lyrics about a mischievous dog are famously challenging to perform without succumbing to (or cleverly avoiding) profanity, showcasing Cash’s wit and connection with his audience.
Image: A live shot of Johnny Cash performing at Folsom Prison, capturing the raw energy and humor of his performance of “Dirty Old Egg-Sucking Dog” for an enthusiastic audience.
26: Tom Waits: Rain Dogs
“Rain Dogs” is quintessential Tom Waits, a singalong anthem for the down-and-out. The song paints a vivid picture of the stray, homeless dogs that roam the city streets after a storm, becoming a metaphor for societal outcasts. It served as the title track for his 1985 album, a pivotal release that redefined his career and explored new musical territories. The song’s captivating melody and relatable theme made it an accessible entry point into Waits’s often-idiosyncratic musical world.
Image: A portrait of Tom Waits, known for his gravelly voice and evocative songwriting, associated with his iconic song “Rain Dogs” and its themes of urban loneliness and resilience.
25: Elvis Presley: Old Shep and A Dog’s Life
While Elvis Presley’s most famous dog song was a cover of Big Mama Thornton’s “Hound Dog,” he also paid tribute to canines in other parts of his career. “Old Shep,” from his second album, is arguably the most sentimental song in his catalog, a heartbreaking ballad about a boy’s loss of his beloved dog. For a lighter canine-themed Presley tune, “A Dog’s Life” offers a wonderfully goofy and upbeat contrast, showcasing the King’s versatility in portraying canine companions in song.
Image: A classic image of Elvis Presley, “The King of Rock and Roll,” known for his powerful vocals and emotive performances, here associated with his tender dog song “Old Shep.”
24: Eels: Dog’s Life
In the hands of a different songwriter, “Dog’s Life” could have been a simple, pleasant tune about envying the carefree existence of a dog. However, with Mark Oliver Everett (E) of Eels at the helm, the song takes on a more melancholic and introspective tone. Enhanced by a tender violin melody, the chorus, “I’ll take a dog’s life, ‘cause I don’t care for this one,” reveals a deeper sense of weariness and a longing for a simpler, perhaps less emotionally taxing existence, adding a layer of poignant depth to the canine theme.
Image: Album art or a promotional image for Eels’ song “Dog’s Life,” likely depicting a dog or imagery that reflects the song’s melancholic and introspective mood.
23: Etta James: Watch Dog
Etta James, a powerhouse vocalist, was renowned for her assertive and commanding presence, particularly when addressing romantic relationships. In “Watch Dog,” she delivers a powerful rebuke to an overbearing partner. The song criticizes a man who is excessively controlling and distrustful, employing surveillance and stifling her freedom. The background vocals, repeating “You ain’t nothing but a watch dog,” serve as a direct and assertive nod to Big Mama Thornton’s classic, reclaiming the “dog” metaphor with female empowerment.
Image: A striking portrait of Etta James, the iconic blues and soul singer, known for her powerful voice and assertive stage presence, associated with her song “Watch Dog” and its themes of female empowerment.
22: Patti Page: (How Much is That) Doggie in the Window?
Perhaps the most universally recognized song on this list, Patti Page’s “(How Much is That) Doggie in the Window?” became an instant novelty sensation upon its release in 1953. Ironically, Page herself had mixed feelings about the song’s immense popularity, as she preferred recording ballads and country tunes. Despite her personal reservations, the song became a lasting standard, its catchy melody and simple lyrics about puppy love resonating across generations. In later years, Page recorded an alternate version, reflecting concerns about puppy mills, demonstrating her evolving perspective on the song’s impact.
Image: A cheerful image of Patti Page, the popular singer from the 1950s, best known for her novelty hit “(How Much is That) Doggie in the Window?”, capturing the song’s lighthearted and innocent charm.
21: Hank Williams/George Thorogood: Move It On Over
“Move It On Over” humorously explores the consequences of landing in the “doghouse” – literally. The song’s narrative centers on a man returning home after a night of revelry and, as a result of his misbehavior, being relegated to sleeping outside with the family dog. The song’s comedic scenario of canine companionship as a consequence of romantic transgression resonated with audiences, leading to its success in two distinct eras. Hank Williams’s original 1947 country-swing version and George Thorogood’s rock-infused rendition three decades later both became significant hits.
Image: A classic photograph of Hank Williams, a pioneer of country music, known for his storytelling songs and his original version of “Move It On Over,” a humorous tale of domestic mishaps and canine company.
20: Sublime: I Love My Dog
Among songs about dogs, Sublime’s “I Love My Dog” arguably boasts the most infectious groove. This track from the ska-punk band sails on a laid-back reggae rhythm, perfectly complementing its heartfelt message of canine affection. The band’s love for their dog was genuine: Lou Dog, Bradley Nowell’s Dalmatian, was more than just a pet; he was a band mascot, celebrated in several Sublime songs. “I Love My Dog” was written during a week when Lou Dog went missing, underscoring the deep bond and relief upon his return.
Image: A still from Sublime’s official video for “I Love My Dog,” likely featuring Lou Dog, Bradley Nowell’s Dalmatian, the band’s mascot and the subject of the song.
19: Luke Bryan: Little Boys Grow Up and Dogs Get Old
Despite its recent release just a few years prior, Luke Bryan’s “Little Boys Grow Up and Dogs Get Old” quickly established itself as a modern country classic, capable of inducing tears in even the most stoic listeners. The song poignantly narrates the parallel journeys of a boy and his black Labrador, culminating in the inevitable bittersweet farewell that all dog lovers dread. While the dog doesn’t explicitly die in the song, Bryan’s heartfelt delivery, especially the lines about leaving town and telling his aging, 14-year-old companion to “be a good boy,” evokes a powerful emotional response, resonating deeply with anyone who has experienced the unconditional love and fleeting time with a beloved dog.
Image: A promotional image for Luke Bryan’s song “Little Boys Grow Up and Dogs Get Old,” possibly depicting a boy and a dog, visually representing the song’s themes of growing up and the aging of canine companions.
18: Nick Drake: Black Eyed Dog
Not all songs about dogs are cheerful celebrations of canine companionship. Nick Drake’s stark and haunting “Black Eyed Dog” employs the image of a dog as a metaphor for depression, a subject with which Drake tragically had personal experience. The “black-eyed dog” symbolizes a persistent and unwelcome shadow, representing the heavy weight of depression. Jesse Winchester also utilized the “black dog” metaphor for depression in his similarly somber tune, “Black Dog,” highlighting the potent symbolism of dogs in expressing complex human emotions.
Image: A contemplative portrait of Nick Drake, the introspective and melancholic singer-songwriter, associated with his haunting song “Black Eyed Dog,” which uses canine imagery to represent depression.
17: Dr. John: How Come My Dog Don’t Bark When You Come Around?
A longtime staple of Dr. John’s live performances, “How Come My Dog Don’t Bark When You Come Around?” is a darkly humorous and morally ambiguous song about infidelity and thoughts of revenge. The song’s humor stems from its exaggerated portrayal of a dog with a menacing temperament – one that bites the mailman and his own mother – yet inexplicably becomes friendly and welcoming towards the singer’s romantic rival. This ironic canine behavior serves as a comedic vehicle to explore themes of betrayal and suspicion with Dr. John’s signature New Orleans flair.
Image: A charismatic image of Dr. John, the New Orleans musical icon, known for his distinctive voice and piano style, associated with his darkly humorous song “How Come My Dog Don’t Bark When You Come Around?”.
16: Led Zeppelin: Bron-Y-Aur Stomp
From the acoustic side of Led Zeppelin III, “Bron-Y-Aur Stomp” showcases Led Zeppelin at their most lighthearted and good-natured. This track is a departure from their typical hard rock anthems, revealing a more folksy and intimate side of the band. Robert Plant’s lyrics celebrate a beloved companion with playful energy and foot-stomping rhythm. It’s not until the final verse that he reveals the object of his affection is four-legged, adding a touch of surprise and warmth. The song also includes a playful nod to Elvis Presley’s “Old Shep,” further solidifying its place within the canon of dog songs.
15: Procol Harum: Salty Dog
In “Salty Dog,” the “salty dog” is not a canine, but rather the dignified captain of a majestic sailing vessel. Procol Harum’s seafaring epic stands as one of prog-rock’s most grandiose and theatrical moments. Gary Brooker’s dramatic vocal performance and the song’s orchestral arrangement create a cinematic and emotionally charged experience. Despite its now-classic status, “Salty Dog” surprisingly underperformed as a single upon its 1969 release, but it has since become a recognized and celebrated piece of progressive rock history.
14: Aerosmith: The Reason A Dog
Ask any dedicated Aerosmith fan, and they’ll likely champion Done With Mirrors, the album that followed their period of sobriety but preceded their mainstream comeback, as a hidden gem in their catalog. “The Reason A Dog” is a prime example of the album’s raw energy and blues-infused rock. Driven by Tom Hamilton’s raunchy bass groove, the song delivers a swaggering and memorable sound. The title itself provides a piece of homespun wisdom: “The reason a dog has so many friends, ‘cause he wags his tail instead of his tongue!” offering a folksy life lesson wrapped in Aerosmith’s signature rock style.
Image: A classic band shot of Aerosmith, the legendary American rock band, known for their energetic performances and hard-rocking sound, here associated with their song “The Reason A Dog” from their album “Done With Mirrors.”
13: The Stooges: I Wanna Be Your Dog
Without question, “I Wanna Be Your Dog” reigns supreme as punk rock’s ultimate canine-themed anthem. This raw and primal track became Iggy Pop’s signature song for decades, embodying the rebellious spirit of punk. Beneath its aggressive exterior, the lyrics explore themes of sexual devotion and obsession. John Cale’s iconic, minimalist one-note piano riff adds to the song’s hypnotic and unsettling atmosphere, revealing layers of complexity beyond its seemingly straightforward punk aggression.
Image: A black and white performance shot of Iggy Pop of The Stooges, the iconic punk rock frontman, known for his raw energy and rebellious persona, associated with their seminal punk anthem “I Wanna Be Your Dog.”
12: Rufus Thomas: The Dog
Rufus Thomas, a Stax Records legend and master of soul shouting, possessed the ability to transform any subject into a killer dance track. “The Dog” emerged as a more uninhibited and energetic evolution of the popular “Twist” dance craze. Thomas provides clear and enthusiastic instructions for a variety of dog-inspired dance moves: “Do the hound dog, do the bull dog, any kind of dog!” Its infectious energy and danceable rhythm propelled it to success, and remarkably, his subsequent four hits were all also dog-themed songs, including the iconic “Walking the Dog,” solidifying his association with canine-inspired dance music.
Image: A vintage image of a 45 record label for Rufus Thomas’s song “The Dog” on Stax Records, evoking the era of classic soul and dance craze music.
11: Nazareth: Hair of the Dog
“Hair of the Dog” is an attitude-laden hard rock track that arguably deserved to be recognized as an all-time classic within the genre. However, it didn’t achieve mainstream success in the US, where Nazareth was primarily known for their cover of The Everly Brothers’ “Love Hurts.” Despite this, “Hair of the Dog” delivered one of hard rock’s most iconic shout-along choruses: “Now you’re messin’ with a son of a b_tch!” Its raw energy and rebellious spirit have earned it a cult following and cemented its place as a hard rock anthem, even if it wasn’t a chart-topping smash in all markets.
Image: Album art for Nazareth’s “Hair of the Dog,” likely featuring a dog or imagery that reflects the song’s hard rock attitude and rebellious energy.
10: Bobby “Blue” Bland: I Wouldn’t Treat a Dog (The Way You Treated Me)
The title of Bobby “Blue” Bland’s “I Wouldn’t Treat a Dog (The Way You Treated Me)” succinctly conveys the song’s central theme of mistreatment in a relationship. This bluesy lament, recorded in 1974 for his Dreamer album, showcases Bland at his most emotionally vulnerable and lowdown. Collaborating with top jazz musicians, Bland aimed for crossover success, mirroring the trajectory of his labelmate B.B. King. His ambition paid off, as “I Wouldn’t Treat A Dog” became a significant hit, its poignant lyrics and soulful delivery resonating with a wide audience.
Image: A classic portrait of Bobby “Blue” Bland, the legendary blues singer, known for his smooth vocals and emotionally charged performances, associated with his poignant song “I Wouldn’t Treat A Dog (The Way You Treated Me)”.
9: Yusuf/Cat Stevens: I Love My Dog
Arguably the greatest song about a dog on this list was penned by Cat Stevens, later known as Yusuf Islam. “I Love My Dog” was his debut single and his first UK hit, launching his career as a major singer-songwriter. The song expresses a simple yet profound affection for a canine companion, suggesting that this love is as strong and perhaps more enduring than romantic love. The melody was adapted from jazz musician Yusef Lateef, who subsequently received co-writing credit, highlighting the song’s cross-genre influences and timeless appeal.
Image: A live performance shot of Yusuf/Cat Stevens, the acclaimed singer-songwriter known for his gentle melodies and introspective lyrics, performing his early hit “I Love My Dog.”
8: The B-52’s: Quiche Lorraine
Leave it to The B-52’s to create a surreal and affectionate parody of lost-dog songs with “Quiche Lorraine.” Fred Schneider’s distinctive spoken-word delivery perfectly complements the song’s quirky and humorous narrative about a runaway pet. The song’s absurdity lies in the details: a French poodle with dyed green hair and designer jeans, prompting the question of how such a distinctive dog could possibly get lost, highlighting The B-52’s signature blend of pop sensibility and eccentric humor.
Image: A promotional image of The B-52’s, the new wave band known for their quirky style and humorous lyrics, associated with their song “Quiche Lorraine,” a playful take on lost dog songs.
7: The Royal Guardsmen: Snoopy Vs. the Red Baron
A cartoon dog who becomes a World War I flying ace, battling the Red Baron? In the context of 1966, this seemingly absurd premise became a massive hit with The Royal Guardsmen’s “Snoopy Vs. the Red Baron.” The Florida garage band initially recorded the song, based on the Peanuts comic strip, without official permission. However, Peanuts creator Charles Schulz ultimately gave his blessing, recognizing the song’s lighthearted charm. This song launched a series of Snoopy-themed hits for the band, including a Christmas-themed follow-up, demonstrating the unexpected popularity of cartoon dogs in music.
Image: Album art or a promotional image for The Royal Guardsmen’s “Snoopy Vs. The Red Baron,” likely featuring Snoopy as a World War I flying ace, reflecting the song’s novelty and cartoonish theme.
6: Baha Men: Who Let the Dogs Out
Baha Men’s “Who Let the Dogs Out” transcended its Trinidadian soca origins to become a global phenomenon at the turn of the millennium. To this day, it remains an essential anthem at sporting events and parties worldwide. Initially, however, it was an underground hit, championed by influential figures like English DJ John Peel. Despite its widespread party anthem status, the song’s original intent was more nuanced: a feminist-friendly critique of boisterous and objectifying male behavior, adding a layer of social commentary beneath its seemingly simple and catchy surface.
Image: A still from Baha Men’s official video for “Who Let The Dogs Out,” likely featuring the band performing the energetic and globally popular song.
5: Snoop Dogg: Doggy Dogg World
It would be almost unimaginable to compile a list of songs about dogs without including Snoop Dogg, also known as The Doggfather. “Doggy Dogg World” is a landmark track that seamlessly fused 90s hip-hop with 70s soul influences. Dr. Dre’s masterful production and a guest vocal appearance by The Dramatics contributed to its distinctive sound. The music video, featuring a cameo by Pam Grier, further solidified its cultural impact, arriving years before her Tarantino-era resurgence, highlighting Snoop Dogg’s early career prominence and innovative musical approach.
Image: A promotional image for Snoop Dogg’s “Doggy Dogg World,” likely featuring Snoop Dogg and collaborators, representing the song’s fusion of hip-hop and soul and its iconic status.
4: Elton John: Gulliver/It’s Hay Chewed
“Gulliver/It’s Hay Chewed” is a deeply moving and poetic waltz by Elton John, addressing the painful memory of having a beloved dog euthanized. This overlooked track from his debut album, Empty Sky, reveals the early promise of the songwriting partnership between John and Bernie Taupin. Elton’s wordless vocal cries at the song’s conclusion are particularly heart-wrenching, adding raw emotional intensity and leading into the album’s unconventional finale, showcasing his ability to convey profound emotion through music.
Image: A young Elton John, the iconic singer-songwriter and pianist, known for his emotive ballads and powerful vocals, associated with his poignant dog song “Gulliver/It’s Hay Chewed.”
3: The Beatles: Martha My Dear
Of course, Paul McCartney, the master of charming melodies, penned one of the most endearing songs about dogs with “Martha My Dear.” While only dedicated Beatles fans knew that Martha was the name of his sheepdog, the song resonated on multiple levels. It functions as a loving tribute to a pet, an encouraging message to a loved one, or simply a catchy pop song with an irresistible hook. Its versatility and universal appeal have made it a beloved track in the Beatles’ vast and iconic catalog.
Image: A classic image of The Beatles, the most influential band in music history, here associated with Paul McCartney’s charming dog song “Martha My Dear” from the White Album.
2: Big Mama Thornton: Hound Dog
While Elvis Presley’s rendition of “Hound Dog” achieved massive fame, it doesn’t quite capture the raw power and assertive message of Big Mama Thornton’s original. Thornton’s version stands as a landmark in R&B history and a powerful anthem of female empowerment. Her delivery is infused with venom and defiance, portraying the “hound dog” figure as disrespectful, lazy, and opportunistic. Thornton’s “Hound Dog” is a declaration of independence and self-respect, far exceeding the playful interpretation that later became more widely known.
Image: A powerful portrait of Big Mama Thornton, the groundbreaking blues singer, known for her commanding voice and stage presence, and for originating the iconic song “Hound Dog” as a powerful blues anthem.
1: George Clinton: Atomic Dog
While countless songs celebrate dogs in music, none have ever been as undeniably funky as George Clinton’s “Atomic Dog.” This groundbreaking track single-handedly ushered in an era of barking on the dance floor throughout the 1980s. “Atomic Dog” was the runaway hit from Clinton’s first official solo album, Computer Games, and marked the beginning of his long and influential exploration of canine themes in his music, forever linking funk music with the playful energy of dogs.
Image: A vibrant and energetic image of George Clinton, the funk music pioneer, known for his flamboyant style and groundbreaking music, associated with his iconic funk anthem “Atomic Dog,” a celebration of canine energy and funk rhythms.
