When you hear “famous dogs,” there’s probably a beloved movie, show or historical furry figure that comes to mind. From Winn-Dixie to Lady to Sinbad, there are plenty of loveable four-legged heroes on the big screen and in real life. Golden Meadows Retrievers has compiled a collection of our favorite iconic dogs — see if your favorite made the list!
1. Marley, “Marley and Me”
We have to start our list with one of the most famous laborador retrievers, Marley! “Marley and Me” made us laugh and cry — sometimes at the same time — giving him a well-deserved spot at the top of our list.
2. Toto, “The Wizard of Oz”
Toto was a fearless hero in “The Wizard of Oz” that became one of the most classic dogs in movie history. This Cairn terrier shows off all the breed’s most memorable features — bravery, persistence and energy.
3. Lassie, “Lassie Come Home”
Lassie, the rough collie, has been in books, TV shows, movies and video games over the years. People have loved her loyalty and bravery since the 1940s, and she’s made her name practically synonymous with her breed.
4. Bruiser, “Legally Blonde”
One of the most well-known Chihuahuas is Bruiser, the loveable and spirited pet of Elle Woods in “Legally Blonde.” Bruiser is perhaps one of the only dogs ever to sit their way through law school, providing moments of comedic relief and showing off matching outfits with his owner.
5. Rin Tin Tin
Although the dog actors above have some serious acclaim, none played more characters than Rin Tin Tin. After being rescued from a battlefield in World War I, Rin Tin Tin made his way to Hollywood and starred in 27 silent films, even earning himself a star on the Hollywood Walk of Fame. Rin Tin Tin died in 1932, but his legacy continued on through his son, actor Rin Tin Tin Jr., and “The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin,” an ABC show that aired in the 1950s.
6. Scooby-Doo, “Scooby-Doo”
We can’t forget about our favorite animated dogs! Scooby-Doo and his van of mystery-solving accomplices are household names around the world. Without him, who knows how many cartoon criminals would still be on the streets.
7. Laika
Television stars aren’t the only famous dogs in history. In 1957, a street dog named Laika became the first living being to orbit the Earth on Sputnik 2. About five hours into the journey, Laika overheated and died. She’s a highly honored figure in Russia, with a memorial in Moscow complete with a statue of her likeness.
8. Balto
Another real-life hero was Balto, a Siberian husky whose strength and dedication may have saved an entire town in 1925. Nome, Alaska, had an outbreak of diphtheria, and the only antidote was in Anchorage, hundreds of miles away. Many dogs helped transport the antidote across the freezing terrain. Balto led the final leg, pushing his team to travel over 50 miles through a blizzard and sub-zero temperatures until they completed their mission.
9. The Barkley Family
We must mention our own well-trained movie star pups! In 2013, the Barkley Family from Golden Meadow Retrievers starred in a series of Subaru commercials, cementing their place in iconic dog history.
Find Your Hero at Golden Meadow Retrievers
Find your own Barkley Family friends at Golden Meadow Retrievers! We’ll help you find the dog of your dreams — your new furry friend will bring your favorite famous dogs to your home! Connect with us today to learn more about our dogs and how you can bring one home now.