Songs about dogs have been a staple of popular music for decades. From pop classics to country standards, there are countless tunes out there dedicated to our four-legged friends.
Whether they are celebrating their loyalty, honoring their memory, or simply expressing love for these furry companions, these songs provide a timeless soundtrack to the special bond between humans and canines. Here are just a few of the classic songs that have been written about dogs over the years.
30+ Best Songs About Dogs
1. Atomic Dog by George Clinton.
This 1982 funk classic is a celebration of dogs everywhere. With its infectious groove and playful lyrics, it’s easy to see why this song has become a favorite for dog-lovers everywhere.
2. B-I-N-G-O by Scottish Folk Song.
BINGO is a fun rendition of the classic children’s song. The traditional version tells the tale of an old farmer and his trusty dog, Bingo.
The lyrics tell how Bingo follows the farmer everywhere he goes, as well as joining in on some of his favorite activities like fishing and hunting.
This rendition updates the theme with a modern twist, giving it a cheerful and upbeat tempo. The song is sure to have kids singing and dancing along!
3. Blue by Peter, Paul, and Mary.
This classic folk song is a timeless tribute to all dogs, both big and small. It tells the story of a lonely little dog who, despite being mistreated by his owners, remains loyal and loving towards them.
The lyrics speak to the power of companionship that dogs can provide in even the most difficult times. The upbeat melody and simple arrangement make this a great song to sing or hum with your pup.
4. Can’t be Replaced by Dierks Bentley.
This song was written for and about his rescue dog, Jake. It talks about how dogs will always be there for us through anything and everything.
The upbeat tone of the song highlights how important our canine friends are to us, no matter what life throws at us.
5. Cracker Jack by Dolly Parton.
This upbeat country song is all about a beloved pup named Cracker Jack. Parton sings of how loyal and faithful he was to her and how she will always remember him fondly, despite his untimely passing.
The lyrics capture the joy of having a four-legged best friend, as well as the heartbreak at their eventual departure. It is a reminder that our canine companions are more than just pets, but true family members.
6. Dirty Old Egg Sucking Dog by Johnny Cash.
It might not be the most well-known song, but it’s certainly one of the most beloved. This upbeat ode to man’s best friend features Cash singing about a mischievous pup who enjoys getting into trouble around town.
The lighthearted lyrics and catchy melody make this song sure to have you and your pooch up and dancing in no time.
7. Every Dog Will Have His Day by Procol Harum.
This folk-rock classic from the 60s is a whimsical song about enjoying life, no matter who you are or where you come from.
The song tells the story of a dog that goes off on his own and has all sorts of adventures. He meets people, travels around, and learns lessons about life along the way.
When he finally comes back home, he is celebrated for his journey. The song celebrates the idea that everyone has potential, even dogs!
8. Everything Reminds Me Of My Dog by Jane Siberry.
This song speaks of the deep connection that Siberry shares with her pup. It’s a beautiful ode to the bond between humans and their furry friends, speaking to the power of unconditional love and loyalty.
The lyrics take us through the joys of having a pup, from going on long walks in nature to snuggle up by the fire.
Siberry celebrates her pup as an integral part of her life, and in the pre-chorus she sings “I can’t let you go, my only companion.”
In the chorus, she speaks to how everything, from simple moments to major events, reminds her of her beloved pup. This song is a must for any dog lover who wants to capture the special bond between humans and their furry friends.
9. Feed Jake by Pirates Of The Mississippi.
Released in 1994, this song tells the story of a man who takes in an injured stray dog he calls Jake and cares for him.
The chorus reflects on how taking care of Jake has changed the man’s life and acknowledges that it was worth all the trouble.
10. Gonna Buy Me a Dog by The Monkees.
Released in 1966, this upbeat tune is an ode to adopting a canine companion. It describes the joy of being able to bring a dog home and create a loving bond with your new furry friend.
The Monkees also released other animal-themed songs such as “Pleasant Valley Sunday” and “Auntie’s Municipal Court.”
11. Gypsy, Joe And Me by Dolly Parton.
This touching song by country music legend Dolly Parton is about a girl, Joe, and her dog Gypsy. It tells the story of how they met and how the bond between them grew over time into unconditional love.
The lyrics describe their adventures together, including swimming in creeks and sleeping under the stars on nights that were warm and bright.
Joe mourns the loss of Gypsy in the closing lines of the song but ultimately finds comfort in knowing that they will always have their memories together. This touching story is sure to be a favorite among dog-lovers everywhere.
12. Hound Dog by Big Mama Thornton.
This bluesy rock-and-roll song chronicles a woman’s woes after being done wrong by her man, singing “You ain’t never caught a rabbit, and you ain’t no friend of mine.”
The lyrics don’t mention any dogs directly but the hound dog motif is clear in the title – this woman has been searching for her lover like a hound dog would search for its prey.
The song was covered by Elvis Presley in 1956 and has since become an iconic piece of rock-and-roll history.
13. How Much Is That Doggie In The Window by Patti Page.
This classic song was originally released in 1952 and reached the top of both the Billboard chart and Cashbox chart in 1953.
The cheerful tune tells the story of a shopping trip gone wrong, as a young girl falls for an adorable pup in the window of a pet store but discovers it’s not for sale.
While this beloved song may be about a dog, it has been covered by a wide variety of artists including Doris Day, Ella Fitzgerald and The Muppets. It’s become an iconic standard in American music history.
14. I Love My Dog by Cat Stevens.
This song captures the joy of having a canine companion, and it speaks to the irrepressible bond that humans can form with their dogs.
The lyrics speak of a man’s unconditional love for his dog, which is “alive in me still.” He goes on to describe how his beloved dog will always be there, no matter what life throws their way.
This song is an ode to the unique relationship between humans and their canine companions.
15. I Love My Dog by Sublime.
It tells the story of a girl who has to leave her beloved dog behind when she moves away. She reflects on all the memories they made together and how much she misses him.
The chorus is an ode to unconditional love, proclaiming “I love my dog/And I don’t care what nobody says,” showing that even though she can’t be with her pup, she will never forget how much he meant to her.
It’s a sweet, heartfelt song that is sure to make any canine lover smile.
16. I’m Gonna Buy Me A Dog (To Take The Place Of You) by Duke Robillard.
This bluesy rock song tells the story of a betrayed lover who decides to replace his lost love with a loyal pup. “I’m gonna buy me a dog, one that won’t ever leave me be / Gonna bring him home and treat him like my own, so he’ll forget about you and me.”
This classic tune is sure to have you tapping your feet and smiling in no time.
17. It’s Just a Dog by Mo Pitney.
This country/Americana song was written to celebrate man’s best friend.
The lyrics are all about the unconditional love and loyalty that dogs provide, with lines like “Just the one who I come home to, just my best fishin’ buddy.”
18. Like My Dog by Billy Currington.
This song is a playful anthem to a man’s best friend, singing about how he loves his dog and how it helps him cope with the difficulties of life.
The chorus croons, “When I come home, want you to just go crazy/He never looks at me like he might hate me/I want you to love me like my dog” With its lighthearted music and cheerful lyrics, this is a great song to get the party started.
19. Lilly by Pink Martini.
This song is a sweet tribute to the singer’s beloved poodle, Lilly. With gentle lyrics celebrating her loyalty and unconditional love, this delightful tune has become a favorite amongst dog lovers around the world.
20. Little Boys Grow Up, And Dogs Get Old by Luke Bryan.
This song is a reflection on how quickly life passes us by. It talks about the bond between humans and their canine companions, and how they grow old together.
The singer reflects on his youth and how he used to run around with the dog who is now looking up at him with graying muzzle.
He wonders where all that time has gone, but cherishes the bond his canine companion has given him. He will remember this friend even when he can’t run around anymore.
The chorus is a bittersweet reminder that life is fleeting, and we must cherish the moments while they last.
21. Man of the Hour by Norah Jones.
This song is a sweet tribute to dogs everywhere, and it speaks to the special bond that humans share with their canine companions.
She goes on to say that his loyalty is unwavering and his love remains strong, no matter the circumstance.
With its catchy melody and heartfelt lyrics, Man of the Hour is a great song to show your pup just how much they mean to you.
22. Martha My Dear by The Beatles.
This classic from The Beatles’ 1968 self-titled album is a song about Paul McCartney’s pet sheepdog, Martha.
With its gentle piano melody and sweet lyrics like “When you find yourself in the thick of it/Help yourself to a bit of what is all around you,” this tune is sure to tug at the heartstrings of any dog lover.
If you want to show your pup some love, then Martha My Dear is the perfect choice.
23. Me And You And A Dog Named Boo by Lobo.
Me And You And A Dog Named Boo is a 1971 song written and recorded by Lobo. The song celebrates the joys of spending time outdoors with a beloved canine companion.
It tells the story of two young lovers, their travels on the road, and the special bond formed between them and their dog, Boo.
The upbeat, country-style melody has been credited with helping to popularize the genre of country music. The lyrics are a celebration of life on the open road, from riding in the car and singing along to the radio, to sleeping under the stars and being grateful for nature’s beauty.
The song also speaks to the joys of having a canine companion. It paints an idyllic picture of the special bond formed between people and their dogs, emphasizing that “Life on the road sure can be sweet, with me and you and a dog named Boo.”
24. My Dog And Me by John Hiatt
John Hiatt’s song “My Dog And Me” is a heart-warming tribute to the bond between humans and their canine friends. Hiatt goes on to sing about how his dog has been there for him through all the highs and lows, even in times when other friends have not.
He also talks about how he loves the companionship of his pup and how, together, they make an unbeatable team.
The song carries a message of loyalty, friendship, and love that truly resonates with any dog owner. It is a reminder of the bond between humans and their canine companions that can be incredibly strong and meaningful.
The lyrics are also full of imagery which helps to capture the feeling of freedom experienced when running alongside your pup in nature.
25. Ol’ Red by Blake Shelton
Ol’ Red is a fan-favorite country song by Blake Shelton about a man who must find a way to break his jealous girlfriend out of prison. In the song, Blake sings about using his trusty hound dog Ol’ Red to help him evade the law and rescue his lover from jail.
The chorus of the song celebrates Ol’ Red’s intelligence and loyalty, as he is ultimately successful in helping Blake set his beloved free.
This touching tale of interspecies friendship has been a hit with listeners for years and continues to be popular today.
Ol’ Red is an example of how powerful the bond between humans and animals can be, and it’s certainly an anthem for all canine-loving country music fans.
26. Old Blue by The Byrds
Old Blue by The Byrds is a lighthearted and nostalgic ode to a beloved canine companion. Written in 1965, the song tells the story of a family who adopts an old stray dog, whom they name Old Blue.
The narrator recalls fondly how this dog brought joy and companionship to the family, but laments that eventually, Old Blue had to leave.
27. Old Grey Dog by Scott
Old Grey Dog by Scott is a heartfelt ode to his beloved canine companion. The lyrics describe the joys of having an old grey dog as a loyal friend and how they are always there in good times and bad.
The song’s simple yet sweet melody and Scott’s warm vocals make it an instant classic, and its message of companionship and unconditional love resonates with many listeners.
For those who have had a special relationship with a pet, Old Grey Dog by Scott captures the joys and sorrows perfectly. It’s an endearing reminder of all that an old grey dog can bring to one’s life.
28. Old King by Neil Young
Old King, written and performed by Neil Young, is an ode to a loved pet. The song paints a vivid picture of Old King, the singer’s faithful dog companion who has since passed away. In the lyrics, his love for his pet radiates with each word; he fondly recalls memories of the old dog and mourns his loss.
The song starts off with the singer recalling how Old King would follow him everywhere he went, and how he was always there to lend an ear when times were tough.
He remembers being able to count on him through anything life threw their way, “no matter what”. Neil Young’s voice is filled with emotion as he sings about the joy and companionship Old King brought him.
29. Old Shep by Elvis Presley
Old Shep by Elvis Presley is a heart-warming song that pays tribute to an old dog. The melancholic lyrics tell the story of a loyal dog who stayed with his owner until the end of his life, even after being mistreated and neglected in his later years.
Despite this, Old Shep’s unwavering loyalty and devotion to its master was an example of unconditional love. Elvis Presley recorded the song in 1956, and it has since become a beloved classic.
The song’s message is a reminder to always show compassion and appreciation for our animal companions, no matter how old they may be.
It’s also a powerful expression of how animals, particularly dogs, can touch our lives in a special way and offer us companionship that is often unparalleled. Old Shep is a timeless reminder of the incredible bond between human and canine.
30. Planet Dog by Boothby Graffoe
Planet Dog by Boothby Graffoe is a fun and cheerful song about dogs. The song tells the story of a man who has been traveling around the universe looking for his lost companion, only to find him on planet Earth.
The upbeat tune and whimsical lyrics make it the perfect anthem for any canine-lover! The verses then go on to describe how the protagonist met his pup, and how they share an unbreakable bond that transcends all time and space.
31. Rover by Jethro Tull
Rover by Jethro Tull is a tribute to a special four-legged friend. Written and composed by Ian Anderson of the British rock band, the song celebrates friendship between human and dog.
With lyrics like “no one can love me like my rover”, listeners are taken on an emotional journey that explores themes of loyalty, devotion, and companionship.
Anderson calls Rover a “song of friendship” and demonstrates the deep bond that can be formed between people and animals.
The song is not only about the joys of pet ownership; it also serves as an ode to all dogs everywhere who bring us immense amounts of unconditional love and loyalty.
32. Seamus by Pink Floyd
Seamus by Pink Floyd is an iconic song about the beloved canine companion of one of the band members. The lyrics tell a touching story of the bond between Seamus and his master, with references to running in fields and being away from home for extended periods.
The song was released as a single on their 1971 album Meddle and has since become a fan favorite among dog lovers.
The melody is gentle and mellow, making it a great tribute to the unconditional love between pets and their owners. In addition to its lyrical content, Seamus by Pink Floyd features some amazing guitar work from David Gilmour that truly brings the song to life.
33. Sometimes I Don’t Mind by The Suicide Machines
The Suicide Machines’ song “Sometimes I Don’t Mind” is a lighthearted rock song about unconditional love and companionship with one’s dog. The lyrics detail various activities they partake in together, such as “throwing the ball around” and making “tracks in the snow”.
The instrumentation is fittingly upbeat and joyful, echoing the positive feelings expressed by the singer throughout the song. With its catchy chorus and positive message, “Sometimes I Don’t Mind” is sure to make any dog lover smile. It’s a perfect song for anyone who has ever cherished the unique bond that can form between humans and their canine companions.
34. Tennessee Hound Dog by The Osborne Brothers
Tennessee Hound Dog is a bluegrass song by the Osborne Brothers, released on their 1968 album Rocky Top.
The song tells the story of an old hound dog, known as Tennessee Hound Dog, who lives in the Smoky Mountains and spends his days chasing rabbits and raccoons.
The song talks about how he is loyal to his master, and will always come when his master calls him. The song paints a vivid picture of the life of an old hound dog in the Smoky Mountains, and it is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
35. The Dog Song by Nellie McKay
The Dog Song by Nellie McKay is a delightful and heartfelt ode to our canine friends. The song tells the story of a woman who has been away from her beloved dog for too long, and she can’t help but miss him.
Through sweet rhymes and catchy melodies, Nellie paints an endearing portrait of her beloved pup and all the joy he brings to her life.
The song speaks to anyone who has ever lost a pet or formed an unbreakable bond with their four-legged companion.
She sings about the unique connection she feels with him, how his unconditional love helps her get through tough times, and how she will never forget him.
36. The More Boys I Meet by Carrie Underwood
The More Boys I Meet, from Carrie Underwood’s debut album Some Hearts, is a song about the simplicity of finding love in a dog. The upbeat track tells the story of how much easier it was for the protagonist to fall for her pup than for any of the boys she meets.
The message behind this song is that sometimes having unconditional love from a dog can be more fulfilling than seeking out a romantic relationship.
The lighthearted lyrics and catchy melody make it an enjoyable tune for fans of Underwood’s music. With its clever lyrics and upbeat tempo, this song is sure to please listeners who enjoy songs about dogs.
37. The Puppy Song by Harry Nilsson
The Puppy Song by Harry Nilsson is a classic folk-pop tune that celebrates the joy of owning a dog. Released in 1969, the song tells the story of how much love and companionship one can receive from their pup.
The lyrics are full of vivid imagery and evoke strong feelings of nostalgia for those who had a dog as a child.
38. Watch Dog by Etta James
“Watch Dog” by Etta James is an uptempo blues-inspired song about a faithful pet. The song tells the story of a devoted canine companion who watches vigilantly over its master, even when said master goes out to play.
With its energetic beat and catchy chorus, this uplifting tune has become a favorite among dog lovers.
FAQs
What are some of the most popular songs about dogs?
Some of the most popular songs about dogs include “Old Shep” by Red Foley, “Homeward Bound” by Simon & Garfunkel, “Teddy Bear’s Picnic” by John Walter Bratton, and “Crazy Little Doggie in the Window” by Bob Dylan.
What is the oldest recorded song about dogs?
The earliest known recording of a song dedicated to dogs is “Old Shep” by Red Foley, which was released in 1956.
Who sings songs about dogs?
There have been many singers that have written and performed songs about dogs, including Red Foley, Simon & Garfunkel, John Walter Bratton, Bob Dylan, Elvis Presley, Willie Nelson and many others.
Where can I find songs about dogs?
You can find songs about dogs by searching for them on streaming services such as Spotify and Apple Music, or you can purchase them from online music stores. Additionally, many of these songs can be found on YouTube.
Are there any children’s songs about dogs?
Yes, there are many songs that have been written specifically for children that feature dogs and pet ownership. Some popular examples include “How Much is That Doggie in the Window” by Patti Page, “Teddy Bear’s Picnic” by John Walter Bratton, and “The Cat Came Back” by Fred Penner.
What are some of the most uplifting songs about dogs?
Some of the most inspiring songs about dogs include “Homeward Bound” by Simon & Garfunkel, “I Love My Dog” by Cat Stevens, and “You Ain’t Nothing But a Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley. These songs celebrate the unconditional love of our canine companions.
Is there any advice given in songs about dogs?
Yes, many of the songs about dogs contain messages that advocate for responsible pet ownership and kindness towards animals. “Old Shep” by Red Foley is a song that encourages its listeners to treat their pets with respect and compassion. Other songs, such as “Teddy Bear’s Picnic” by John Walter Bratton, remind us that dogs are loyal friends and deserve our love and attention.
What other types of animals appear in songs about dogs?
In addition to dogs, many of the songs about pets feature cats, horses, birds, and even farm animals. “Oh! Susanna” by Stephen Foster is an example of a song that features a variety of animals, including dogs. “Crazy Little Doggie in the Window” by Bob Dylan is another popular song that mentions cats, birds, and other animals.
