The 1970s were a great age of change, music, fashion, and—yes, dog ownership. Families all around were welcoming furry friends into their homes; some breeds dominated the decade with their appeal, loyalty, and popularity. From city flats to suburban homes, these dogs were everywhere, seen in TV shows, films, and family photographs.
This list of the 10 most popular dog breeds from the 1970s will transport you on a nostalgic trip whether your upbringing included one or you are just fascinated by the dogs who captured hearts during disco’s heyday. These dogs were perfect for homes of all kinds because of their sweet temperaments, clever brains, and mixed dispositions.
Let’s explore the hippest generation of dog enthusiasts and find which breeds really dominated the decade!
Labrador Retriever
The Labrador Retriever was fast rising to be among the most popular dog breeds in the United States throughout the 1970s. Famously intelligent, kind, and devoted, the Lab was a family friend and perfect partner. Their adaptability made them fit for homes as well as for jobs, including hunting companions, search and rescue dogs, and guide dogs.
Originally raised as fishing and retrieving dogs in Newfoundland, Labradors fit suburban life—which was flourishing in the 1970s. For first-time dog owners, their simplicity of training and enthusiasm to please made them outstanding. Their low-maintenance, short, water-resistant coat set them apart from other long-haired breeds.
Families chose labs, especially since they were renowned for being excellent with children. They had established themselves as one of America’s most beloved dogs by the end of the decade, and their appeal has only been more pronounced since.
German Shepherd
Throughout the 1970s, the German Shepherd was a standout breed prized for its intellect, devotion, and protective qualities. Originally becoming well-known in the United States following World War I, the breed really came alive in the ’70s, mainly because of its connection to military and police employment.
Television and movies also had a part; German Shepherds were highlighted on hit series like Rin Tin Tin, therefore presenting a heroic and obedient picture of the breed. Families, police enforcement, and service jobs all chose them first because of their assured manner and trainability. German Shepherds were also quite gifted in agility and obedience training, which added to their standing as very competent working dogs.
They did, however, call for seasoned entrepreneurs who could offer mental stimulation, exercise, and organization. With many families loving the breed as both a buddy and protector, their bold but subdued character made them a fierce competitor in the 1970s among dog enthusiasts.
Poodle
Particularly among people seeking a mix of elegance, intelligence, and low-shedding coats, the Poodle ruled as one of the most popular dog breeds of the 1970s. Standard, miniature, and toy sizes provide Poodles with adaptability to fit any home or way of life. Toy and Miniature Poodles were particularly fashionable among metropolitan couples and elderly people in the 1970s because of their reasonable weight and elegant look.
Poodles are superb at obedience training and canine sports despite their elegant appearances; they are very smart and eager to learn. Given more families were learning about allergies and indoor life with pets, their hypoallergenic coat was a big lure.
Poodles also distinguished themselves with their theatrical grooming techniques, which were quite identifiable and usually something of pride for their owners. Over the decade, their devoted character, kind demeanor, and adaptability made them a constant icon.
Beagle
Families seeking a smaller, more compact breed with a strong personality turned first to the Beagle in the 1970s. Originally bred for hunting, these amiable, inquisitive hounds had clearly established themselves as cherished family pets by the 1970s. Their placid nature guaranteed they got along with children and other pets, and their reasonable weight made them perfect for suburban houses.
Only contributing to their appeal were Beagles’ expressive looks and soulful eyes, which reflect on training. Nevertheless, they may be a touch recalcitrant because of their powerful scent senses, which quickly divert them. Still, their playfulness and allegiance balanced any eccentricities.
Their appeal was also enhanced by popular culture; among the most well-known Beagles of the day was Snoopy from the Peanuts comic strip. The Beagle became a household favorite in the 1970s thanks in great part to all these elements.
Dachshund
Often known as the “wiener dog” for its unusually long body and tiny legs, the Dachshund became rather popular in the 1970s. Originally developed for hunting badgers in Germany, these little yet energetic dogs fit rather nicely into suburban and urban life. Both singles and couples alike loved them for their audacious personalities and loyalty.
Smooth, wire-haired, and long-haired dachshunds let individuals select depending on grooming taste and aesthetic appeal. Dachshunds, for all their weight, were bold and often keen watchdogs. Their small profile fit apartment renters, and their fun, loving demeanor made them appealing friends.
Their independent streak makes training difficult, but usually sustained efforts pay off. Their unusual look, along with their lively attitude and charm, made them stand out in a decade that championed originality and unique pet features in the 1970s.
Collie
Thanks mostly to the ongoing appeal of Lassie, the television star who embodied the intellect, devotion, and heroic nature of the breed, the Collie became rather popular in the 1970s. Collies’ mild disposition and protective instincts drew families all throughout the country—especially those with young children.
For suburban homes, these dogs were perfect because of their placid attitude and loyalty. Collies were appealing even more because of their flowing double coat and elegant and noble look. Although their coats needed constant maintenance, most owners felt it was a reasonable sacrifice for a partner this devoted and loving. Collies were also quite trainable; they usually shone in obedience contests.
Collies represented the “perfect family dog”—loyal, elegant, and dependable—in the 1970s. Their media profile, combined with real canine traits, kept them at the top of the breed rankings over the decade and guaranteed they would always be a beloved classic.
Boxer
Another breed that was much loved in the 1970s was boxer boxers. Boxers were well-liked among active families and people looking for a devoted yet vivacious friend because of their robust, athletic frame and dynamic attitude. Originally developed in Germany as working and security dogs, Boxers offered intelligence and bravery.
They were great watchdogs and playmates for children in the 1970s because of their protective instincts without too strong aggressiveness. Their expressive faces—with big, dark eyes—helped them create close relationships with their owners; their short coats need little upkeep. Families were kept amused by boxers’ clownish demeanor and sense of humor, which also reflected.
They suited homes that could provide lots of interaction since they lived on attention and exercise. Particularly for those looking for a guardian as well as a beloved pet, their bravery, loyalty, and lovable demeanor kept them among the top breeds of the decade.
Cocker Spaniel
Throughout the 1970s, the Cocker Spaniel was a mainstay in American homes, prized for its silky hair, soft temperament, and expressive eyes. Originally developed for bird hunting, Cocker Spaniels were one of the smaller members of the sports group but had fitly evolved into the position of loving family pet. Their smooth, appealing look and flexible scale helped them to be popular in suburban homes as well as in urban flats in the 1970s.
Their happy attitude and love of company meant they fit very nicely with kids, other animals, and even guests. To keep their long, opulent coat beautiful, though, it does need frequent maintenance. Media coverage of the breed—such as Disney’s Lady and the Tramp—which kept them in the public spotlight helped to support their appeal as well.
Families looking for an emotionally sensitive and affectionate companion that will fit right into their homes loved them for their devoted, sweet-natured demeanor.
Golden Retriever
With their winning mix of beauty, intellect, and unlimited affection, Golden Retrievers won over American families in the 1970s. Originally developed in Scotland as hunting dogs, Goldens had by then become beloved friends distinguished by their bright attitudes and gentle gaze. Their intelligence and enthusiasm to please made training them quite simple; they were also quite good as therapy dogs, guide dogs, and in obedience contests.
Because of their calm demeanor and infinite tolerance, Golden Retrievers were particularly prized in homes with children. Their loving attitude and flowing golden coats helped them to become the classic American family dog. Although owners considered the trade-off more than worth it, they did need frequent grooming and lots of physical activity.
In a decade when family-centric life and good values were stressed, the Golden Retriever fit quite nicely. Top breed of the time, their reputation for devotion, calm demeanor, and happiness made them unique.
Saint Bernard
During the 1970s, the Saint Bernard—known for its large scale and soft heart—was an iconic breed. Originally developed for alpine rescue operations in the Swiss Alps, these dogs grew to be popular in the United States for their laid-back attitude and striking height. The 1974 Disney film Napoleon and Samantha, which starred a charming Saint Bernard, helped them become rather famous.
Saint Bernards, friendly and outstanding with youngsters, earned the moniker “gentle giants” despite their intimidating weight. In bigger homes, particularly ones with lots of space, their quiet and patient demeanor made them great allies. Their excessive shedding and drooling—which called for careful grooming and cleanup—also were well-known.
Still, during the decade their devoted and compassionate attitude won over many dog enthusiasts. Saint Bernard’s combination of visual impact, family friendliness, and bravery in the 1970s put it among the most outstanding breeds of the period.
FAQs
1. Why were certain dog breeds more popular in the 1970s?
Dog breeds became popular based on lifestyle trends, media influence, and how well they fit into suburban family life.
2. Was the Labrador Retriever already popular in the 1970s?
Yes, the Labrador Retriever began gaining major popularity in the ’70s and has remained a top choice ever since.
3. Did television shows influence dog breed trends in the 1970s?
Absolutely. Shows like Lassie and The Littlest Hobo helped popularize breeds like Collies and German Shepherds.
4. Are the top breeds from the 1970s still popular today?
Many are! Breeds like the Labrador Retriever, Golden Retriever, and German Shepherd continue to rank among today’s most beloved dogs.
Bottom Line
The 1970s produced a generation of cherished dog breeds in addition to bell bottoms and vinyl records. From the spunky Dachshund to the always devoted Labrador Retriever, these canines left a paw impression on ten years. Whether prized for their appearance, temperament, or adaptability, every breed gained recognition via general appeal and devoted friendship.
Knowing which dogs dominated the charts from the past also helps one to better understand how trends and ways of life affect our choice of canines. The ’70s list has plenty to offer every dog lover, whether you’re searching for a timeless breed or are nostalgic.