The 1950s and ‘60s were a golden age of rock ‘n’ roll, sock hops, and station wagons—with an adorable sidekick curled up in the backseat. Back then, some breeds ruled suburban homes and Hollywood screens like true canine celebrities. These pups graced the lawns of white-picket-fenced homes, starred in vintage ads, and loyally guarded Tupperware parties with unmatched dedication. But times changed. Today, many of these once-iconic breeds have slipped out of the spotlight, replaced by trendier floofs with social media fame. Yet their charm, history, and influence remain unmatched.
Afghan Hound
With flowing locks and model-like elegance, the Afghan Hound was a bona fide showstopper in the mid-20th century. Known for its exotic appearance and aloof charm, this breed was a favorite among fashion icons and high-society households. Their glamorous look landed them in glossy magazines and even TV commercials, symbolizing sophisticated dog ownership. However, as lower-maintenance breeds rose in popularity, the Afghan Hound’s need for serious grooming and independent personality caused it to fade from the family dog scene. Today, spotting one is like seeing a supermodel from a vintage Vogue cover strut past your local dog park.
Cocker Spaniel (American)
Back in the ’50s and ’60s, the American Cocker Spaniel was everywhere—cuddling with kids in family sitcoms, winning dog shows, and warming countless laps nationwide. Their soulful eyes, silky ears, and cheerful demeanor made them perfect for post-war American households. In fact, they were the most registered breed with the AKC for much of that era. But over time, their popularity dipped due to breeding issues that led to temperament and health problems, making potential owners think twice. Now, this once-dominant breed is more of a nostalgic nod to mid-century puppy love.
Collie
Thanks to the mega-popular TV show Lassie, Collies became the four-legged poster children of intelligence, loyalty, and heroic backyard rescues. Every kid in the ’50s wanted a Collie to save them from a well—or at least from chores. These graceful, fluffy-coated dogs were synonymous with wholesome American values. However, their numbers have dwindled as newer breeds took center stage, and few people today have the time or patience to keep that glorious mane in check. Lassie may always come home, but Collies don’t seem to be coming back into style just yet.
Bedlington Terrier
The Bedlington Terrier once trotted through suburban neighborhoods like it was walking a red carpet—curly, lamb-like coat and all. Their unique appearance and cheerful attitude made them a novelty hit during the mid-20th century. Families appreciated their low-shedding coat and spunky personality, while dog shows adored their signature silhouette. Over time, though, trends shifted toward fluffier, cuddlier-looking breeds, and the Bedlington slowly lost its spot in the limelight. These days, they’re more likely to appear in crossword puzzles than your local park.
Great Dane
In the 1950s and ‘60s, owning a Great Dane was the equivalent of driving a Cadillac—you were sending a statement. These gentle giants were popular among families with the space and budget for a horse-sized companion with the personality of a laid-back uncle. Scooby-Doo wasn’t technically around until the late ’60s, but the Great Dane’s popularity was already booming by then. However, their numbers gradually declined in everyday homes due to their short lifespans and high upkeep. Now, they’re more likely to be found with seasoned dog lovers than mainstream dog parents.
English Setter
Elegant, athletic, and once a staple in hunting circles and family households, the English Setter was a versatile breed with significant popularity during the mid-century decades. Their speckled coats and graceful movement made them as beautiful as they were functional. Back then, their mix of sporting skills and gentle companionship checked all the boxes for dog-loving families. But their need for space, exercise, and grooming proved too much for the fast-paced, urban-focused lifestyles that emerged in later decades. Now, they’re mostly seen in specialized circles or with nostalgic bird-dog fans.
Boston Terrier
Nicknamed the “American Gentleman,” the Boston Terrier was a common sight on city stoops and suburban porches in the ’50s and ’60s. Their tuxedo markings, charming expressions, and manageable size made them perfect for both apartment living and family homes. They were often featured in vintage ads and were a beloved breed for veterans returning from WWII. But as bulldog-type breeds grew in popularity, Boston took a backseat in the public eye. They’re still around, but nowhere near the cultural prominence they once held.
Scottish Terrier
The Scottie was once as iconic as the Volkswagen Beetle or a pair of cat-eye sunglasses. They showed up in Monopoly, advertisements, and even political campaigns (FDR’s Scottie, Fala, was practically a cabinet member). With their dignified demeanor and stout little bodies, Scotties were a 1950s favorite. But over time, their fiery personalities and grooming needs made them a tougher sell for modern households. Today, they’re a stylish rarity rather than a common canine companion.
Dalmatian
Thanks to Disney’s 101 Dalmatians, this spotty superstar exploded in popularity in the 1960s. Every kid dreamed of owning not one, but maybe even all 101. Their sleek coats and dramatic appearance made them stand out on the street and in the backyard. However, their high energy levels, strong-willed nature, and unfortunate breeding led to behavioral issues that quickly cooled their popularity. Once the Disney hype faded, so did the number of Dalmatians in your average neighborhood.
Wire Fox Terrier
This spunky little terrier was a major contender in the dog show world during the ‘50s and ‘60s, racking up Best in Show titles like it was its full-time job. Wire Fox Terriers were energetic, confident, and looked like they were always up to something mildly mischievous. Families loved their lively personalities, and their wiry coats gave them a distinguished air. But as smoother-coated breeds became easier to maintain, the Wire Fox slipped into semi-obscurity. These days, they’re more likely to appear in historical dog books than at your local dog park.
Brittany Spaniel
The Brittany Spaniel (now just called the Brittany) was a mid-century hunting companion that doubled as a sweet-natured family friend. Thanks to their agility, intelligence, and sunny personality, they were extremely popular in rural and outdoorsy homes. These dogs could track, retrieve, and then cuddle on the couch—what’s not to love? But as suburban sprawl replaced hunting grounds with cul-de-sacs, their usefulness as gun dogs diminished. Brittanys are still around, but they no longer hold the same mass-market appeal they once did.
The Retro Rovers That Deserve a Comeback
Once-popular pups who ruled the ’50s and ’60s with charm, charisma, and a perfect sense of style have since faded quietly from the spotlight. Some starred on TV, others snoozed by barbecues while Elvis crooned in the background. But as trends changed and hairstyles grew taller, these breeds became a rarity. Still, they carry a timeless charm and enough retro flair to tug at your grandma’s heartstrings. If dogs had yearbooks, these furry icons would definitely be voted “Most Likely to Star in a Technicolor Classic.”
The post Top 11 Dog Breeds That Were All the Rage in the ‘50s & ‘60s (But Are Rare Today) appeared first on iHeartDogs.com.
via Whisker Therapy