The Most Famous Dogs Throughout History

Aside from fictional furry friends such as Lassie and Scooby Doo, plenty of well-known dogs are remembered through generations. Read below to learn about some of the most famous dogs throughout history!

1918 – Rin Tin Tin

First on our list is Rin Tin Tin . He was a German Shepherd rescued from a dog kennel in France during WWI by an American soldier named Lee Duncan from Los Angeles. After moving home, “Rinty” caught a filmmaker’s eye and went on to star in 27 movies! By 1925, German Shepherds became North America’s most popular dog breed due to Rinty’s fame and lovability.

1925 – Balto

Next, we have Balto. Balto and his musher Gunnar Kaasen helped deliver the antidote to an Alaskan city, Nome, after an outbreak of diphtheria. The team traveled 54 miles through -40 degree temperatures and hazardous conditions. Since then, Balto has been honored in many ways, such as a movie and a statue in New York’s Central Park.

1930 – Jofi

Jofi was a Chow Chow owned by well-known psychologist Sigmund Freud. Jofi’s job was to help Freud study patients by noting her own emotions around the patients. Additionally, her presence helped calm his patients and made them more open and honest. Because of this, Jofi is considered the first therapy dog and the inspiration behind modern pet therapy.

1937 – Sinbad

Sinbad sailed with the U.S. Coast Guard for 11 of the 14 years of his life. “Blackie” Rother brought the mutt aboard after his girlfriend’s landlord would not allow it to live with her. Then, the ship’s captain recruited Sinbad as a bonding resource and an opportunity to teach responsibility. Additionally, Sinbad was enlisted (signing his papers by dipping his paw in ink) and promoted to Chief Dog after serving several years in 1st Class. What a good boy!

1939 – Terry AKA Toto

This well-known terrier famously played Dorthy’s loyal companion in The Wizard of Oz, released in 1939. Additionally, “Toto” is known for doing all of her own stunts in the movie. During her lifetime, Terry accumulated a total of 23 film appearances!

1994 – Trakr

Traker was a German Shepherd Search and Rescue dog that assisted in uncovering survivors from the September 11th attacks. Then, Trakr was recognized by Time Magazine as one of the ten most heroic animals of all time. But his fame and prestige continued. In 2009, Traker was chosen to be cloned by BioArts International and won the “Best Freind Again” Contest. Then, the clone was united with his original owner and continued to train as a Search and Rescue canine.

2012 – Doug the Pug

Doug is an Instagram and TikTok star that Forbes has recognized as one of the most influential pets in the world. Additionally, Doug was awarded the People’s Choice Award for “Animal Star” back-to-back in 2019 and 2020!  Doug is even involved in charitable work that helps to bring joy and support to children with life-threatening illnesses.

There are plenty of other companions that have achieved extraordinary things! No matter how big or small the accomplishment, every furry friend is unique in their own way.