Dogs are known for their loyalty, companionship, and unconditional love, and these qualities have inspired many musicians to write songs about them. From happy, upbeat tunes to touching ballads, songs about dogs come in many styles and moods, but they all share a common love for these beloved four-legged friends.
The “Top 20 Songs About Dogs” list includes some of the most popular and well-known songs in different genres, including “Old Shep” by Elvis Presley, “How Much is that Doggie in the Window?” by Patti Page, “Who Let the Dogs Out?” by Baha Men, “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley, “You Ain’t Nothing But a Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley, and many more. These songs celebrate the unique bond between humans and dogs, and the special place that dogs hold in our hearts.
Whether you’re a dog lover, or simply appreciate the important role that dogs play in our lives, these 20 songs about dogs are sure to be a treat. From silly, lighthearted tunes to touching ballads, these songs capture the essence of the dog-human bond and provide a glimpse into the deep and abiding love that dogs evoke in us. So, grab your furry friend and enjoy some of the best songs about dogs!
1. “Diamond Dogs” by David Bowie
“Diamond Dogs” is a classic track by legendary singer-songwriter David Bowie. Released in 1974, the song is a showcase of Bowie’s unique blend of rock, glam, and art rock influences. The song features a haunting vocal delivery and apocalyptic lyrics set against a backdrop of angular guitars and atmospheric synths. The eerie yet catchy chorus and the haunting vocal delivery are hallmarks of Bowie’s style and have made “Diamond Dogs” a classic of his extensive discography. The song’s innovative sound and lyrical themes have influenced countless artists in the decades since its release, solidifying its status as a seminal work in Bowie’s legendary career.
2. “Dog and Butterfly” by Heart
“Dog and Butterfly” is a classic rock ballad by the legendary American band Heart. Released in 1978, the song showcases the band’s signature blend of powerful vocals, soaring guitar riffs, and emotive lyrics. The song’s powerful vocals, delivered by Ann Wilson, are at the forefront, conveying a sense of longing and heartache as she sings about the transformative power of love. The haunting guitar solo and lush harmonies add to the song’s emotional intensity, making it a timeless anthem of hope and resilience. “Dog and Butterfly” remains one of Heart’s most popular and enduring tracks and is a testament to their enduring legacy as one of rock’s most influential bands.
3. “Black Dog” by Led Zeppelin
“Black Dog” is a classic rock song by the legendary British band Led Zeppelin. Released in 1971, the song features the band’s signature blend of powerful blues-infused rock, with a driving beat and soaring guitar riffs. The song’s lyrics are somewhat cryptic and elusive, touching on themes of desire, temptation, and the seductive power of a mysterious woman. The song’s memorable guitar riff and dynamic rhythm section, played by Jimmy Page and John Bonham respectively, have made “Black Dog” one of Led Zeppelin’s most enduring tracks and a staple of classic rock radio. The song remains a testament to the band’s skill as musicians and their influence on the rock genre.
4. “Dog’s A Best Friend’s Dog” by Tears for Fears
“Dog’s A Best Friend’s Dog” is a unique and quirky song by the British band Tears for Fears. Released in 2004, the song is a departure from their earlier synth-pop sound, incorporating elements of folk and alternative rock. The song features intricate acoustic guitar work and soaring harmonies, with lyrics that reflect on the idea of unconditional love and the bond between humans and their pets. The song’s whimsical and imaginative lyrics are paired with an upbeat and infectious melody, making it a standout track on the band’s album “Everybody Loves a Happy Ending.” “Dog’s A Best Friend’s Dog” showcases Tears for Fears’ versatility and ability to evolve their sound while still maintaining their signature musical style.
5. “Hound Dog” by Elvis Presley
“Hound Dog” is a classic rock and roll song made famous by the legendary Elvis Presley. Originally recorded by Big Mama Thornton in 1952, Elvis’ version, released in 1956, took the song to new heights of popularity and cemented its place in the pantheon of classic rock and roll. With its driving beat, upbeat melody, and playful lyrics, “Hound Dog” became one of Elvis’ most iconic and beloved tracks, showcasing his unique blend of rhythm and blues, rock and roll, and country music. The song’s enduring popularity is a testament to Elvis’ impact on music and culture, and to the power of rock and roll to bring people together and get them moving. “Hound Dog” remains one of the most recognized and beloved songs of all time.
6. “Shake Dog Shake” by The Cure
“Shake Dog Shake” is a haunting and evocative track by the British band The Cure. Released in 1984, the song is a standout on their classic album “The Top.” With its atmospheric synth lines, driving bass, and Robert Smith’s emotive vocals, “Shake Dog Shake” showcases The Cure’s signature sound and their ability to create dark and brooding musical landscapes. The song’s lyrics, which touch on themes of isolation and loss, are delivered with a raw intensity that is both powerful and unsettling. “Shake Dog Shake” has become a fan favorite over the years and is a highlight of The Cure’s live shows, showcasing their versatility and skill as musicians. The song is a testament to The Cure’s place as one of the most influential and innovative bands of the post-punk era.
7. “Atomic Dog” by George Clinton
“Atomic Dog” is a classic funk song by the legendary George Clinton and his band Parliament-Funkadelic. Released in 1982, the song is a showcase of Clinton’s innovative blend of funk, R&B, and psychedelic rock. With its driving bass line, soaring synth lines, and playful lyrics, “Atomic Dog” has become one of the most recognizable and enduring tracks of the funk genre. The song’s catchphrase, “Bow wow wow yippie yo yippie yay,” has become a staple of popular culture and has been referenced in countless other songs and media over the years. “Atomic Dog” is a testament to George Clinton’s impact on music and his place as one of the most influential figures in funk and R&B. The song remains a popular party anthem and a timeless classic of the genre.
8. “Burning Dog” by Sugar Ray
“Burning Dog” is a power pop and alternative rock song by the American band Sugar Ray. Released in 2001, the song is a standout track from their album “Sugar Ray.” With its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and upbeat lyrics, “Burning Dog” showcases Sugar Ray’s ability to craft infectious and memorable pop songs. The song’s upbeat energy and positive vibe have made it a popular choice for sports arenas and events, and its upbeat and joyful message has made it a fan favorite. “Burning Dog” is a testament to Sugar Ray’s skill as musicians and songwriters, and their ability to create music that is both fun and meaningful. The song remains a popular and enduring part of their catalog, and a standout track of the early 2000s pop and alternative rock scenes.
9. “A Salty Dog” by Procol Harum
“A Salty Dog” is a classic progressive rock song by the British band Procol Harum. Released in 1969, the song is a standout track from their album “A Salty Dog.” With its atmospheric soundscape, intricate instrumentation, and poetic lyrics, “A Salty Dog” showcases Procol Harum’s ability to create complex and evocative musical landscapes. The song’s surreal imagery and haunting melody have made it a fan favorite, and its place in the pantheon of progressive rock is secured by its influence on countless other musicians and bands. “A Salty Dog” is a testament to Procol Harum’s place as one of the most innovative and influential bands of the progressive rock era, and its enduring popularity is a testament to the power of their music. The song remains a timeless classic of the genre and a highlight of their discography.
10. “Rain Dogs” by Tom Waits
“Rain Dogs” is a haunting and evocative track by the American singer-songwriter Tom Waits. Released in 1985, the song is a standout on his classic album “Rain Dogs.” With its spare instrumentation, growling vocals, and haunting lyrics, “Rain Dogs” showcases Waits’ signature sound and his ability to create musical landscapes that are both raw and emotional. The song’s lyrics, which touch on themes of loss, isolation, and the search for meaning, are delivered with a growling intensity that is both powerful and unsettling. “Rain Dogs” has become a fan favorite over the years and is a highlight of Waits’ live shows, showcasing his versatility and skill as a performer. The song is a testament to Waits’ place as one of the most influential and innovative artists of the post-punk era.
11. “Big Black Dog” by Emmylou Harris
“Big Black Dog” is a country-folk song by the American singer-songwriter Emmylou Harris. Released in 2014, the song is a standout track from her album “The Traveling Kind.” With its simple yet powerful melody, delicate instrumentation, and emotional lyrics, “Big Black Dog” showcases Harris’ ability to craft songs that are both moving and memorable. The song’s lyrics, which touch on themes of love, loss, and the passage of time, are delivered with Harris’ signature voice, a voice that is both warm and comforting. “Big Black Dog” has become a fan favorite over the years and is a highlight of Harris’ live shows, showcasing her versatility and skill as a performer. The song is a testament to Harris’ place as one of the most important and influential female singer-songwriters of the modern era, and its timeless quality is a testament to the power of her music.
12. “Givin’ The Dog A Bone” by AC/DC
“Givin’ The Dog A Bone” is a hard-hitting rock song by the legendary Australian band AC/DC. Released in 1981, the song is a standout track from their album “For Those About to Rock We Salute You.” With its driving beat, crunching guitar riffs, and raw vocals, “Givin’ The Dog A Bone” showcases AC/DC’s signature sound and their ability to create high-energy rock and roll that is both irresistible and unforgettable. The song’s lyrics, which are filled with double entendres and sexual innuendo, are delivered with a swagger and confidence that is quintessentially AC/DC. “Givin’ The Dog A Bone” has become a fan favorite over the years and is a staple of AC/DC’s live shows, showcasing their enduring popularity and the timeless quality of their music. The song is a testament to AC/DC’s place as one of the greatest rock and roll bands of all time.
13. “Black Dog Barking” by Airbourne
“Black Dog Barking” is an upbeat hard rock song by the Australian band Airbourne. Released in 2013, the song is the title track from their album of the same name. With its fast-paced tempo, driving guitar riffs, and powerful vocals, “Black Dog Barking” showcases Airbourne’s energetic and explosive sound. The song’s lyrics, which are filled with classic rock and roll themes of rebellion and independence, are delivered with a raw, rebellious energy that is typical of the band. “Black Dog Barking” has become a fan favorite over the years and is a staple of Airbourne’s live shows, showcasing the band’s ability to bring high-energy rock and roll to the stage. The song is a testament to Airbourne’s place as one of the leading voices in modern hard rock, and its enduring quality is a testament to the band’s commitment to delivering powerful and unforgettable rock and roll.
14. “Dog eat Dog” by Adam & The Ants
“Dog Eat Dog” is a classic post-punk song by the English band Adam & The Ants. Released in 1979, the song was a standout track from their album “Kings of the Wild Frontier.” With its driving beat, pounding bassline, and sing-along chorus, “Dog Eat Dog” is a classic example of the band’s unique and distinctive sound. The song’s lyrics, which explore themes of social hierarchy and the cutthroat nature of modern society, are delivered with a mix of sarcasm and irony that is typical of the post-punk genre. “Dog Eat Dog” has become a fan favorite over the years and is a staple of Adam & The Ants’ live shows, showcasing the band’s ability to deliver high-energy, anthemic rock and roll with a satirical edge. With its catchy melody and powerful message, “Dog Eat Dog” remains a classic of the post-punk era and is a testament to Adam & The Ants’ place in music history.
15. “Police Dog Blues” by Hugh Laurie
“Police Dog Blues” is a song by British actor and musician Hugh Laurie, released as part of his 2011 album “Let Them Talk.” The song is a traditional blues number, steeped in the rich history of American roots music. With its shuffling beat and soulful guitar playing, “Police Dog Blues” showcases Laurie’s musical prowess and deep understanding of the blues genre. The song’s lyrics, which tell the story of a man who has been wronged by the police and the titular “police dog,” are delivered with a mix of sadness and defiance, and perfectly capture the spirit of the blues. Overall, “Police Dog Blues” is a standout track from Laurie’s debut album and a testament to his passion and expertise in the blues.
16. “Water Dog” by Roger Miller
“Water Dog” is a song by American singer-songwriter Roger Miller. Released in 1965, the song is a playful and upbeat track that showcases Miller’s signature style of whimsical storytelling and humor. The song’s protagonist is a man who is trying to catch a mischievous water dog who keeps evading his attempts to capture it. With its catchy melody, upbeat tempo, and witty lyrics, “Water Dog” is a fun and lighthearted song that has become a fan favorite over the years. Miller’s smooth, folksy vocal delivery and upbeat guitar playing perfectly complement the song’s upbeat and playful mood, making “Water Dog” a standout track from Miller’s extensive body of work.
17. “Space Dog” by Tori Amos
“Space Dog” is a song by American singer-songwriter Tori Amos. It was released in 1992 as a single from her album “Little Earthquakes.” The song is a haunting and introspective track that showcases Amos’s unique blend of classical, pop, and electronic music. With its intricate piano playing, soaring vocals, and atmospheric synths, “Space Dog” is a powerful and emotional song that explores themes of loneliness, isolation, and the search for meaning in a fragmented world. The song’s complex and dreamlike arrangement reflects Amos’s unique musical vision and her deep exploration of the human psyche. Through its haunting beauty and powerful imagery, “Space Dog” remains a standout track in Tori Amos’s illustrious career.
18. “Hot Dog!” by They Might Be Giants
“Hot Dog!” is a fun and quirky song by the alternative rock band They Might Be Giants. Released in 1990, it’s a playful tune that features the band’s signature use of humorous lyrics and upbeat melodies. The song’s upbeat tempo and catchy chorus make it a fun, danceable track that’s sure to put a smile on your face. The lyrics of “Hot Dog!” are silly and lighthearted, making light of the simple pleasures of life, like eating hot dogs at a baseball game. The song’s jangly guitar riffs, driving drums, and playful vocal delivery create a fun, upbeat atmosphere that’s sure to put you in a good mood. Overall, “Hot Dog!” is a perfect example of They Might Be Giants’ quirky and entertaining brand of alternative rock.
19. “Dogs” by Pink Floyd
“Dogs” by Pink Floyd is a 17-minute long progressive rock track that showcases the band’s musical and lyrical versatility. The song is a musical narrative that depicts the cut-throat world of corporate America and the desperation of the people trying to make it in this world. The music is complex and layered, featuring heavy guitar riffs and haunting keyboard lines. Roger Waters’s lyrics are biting and cynical, and his voice delivers them with conviction. The song’s powerful instrumental breaks, haunting vocal harmonies, and vivid storytelling make “Dogs” a standout track in Pink Floyd’s discography and a must-listen for fans of the genre.
20. “Stray Dog” by New Order
“Stray Dog” is a song by New Order, released as part of their album “Get Ready” in 2001. The song showcases the band’s signature blend of electronic and rock elements, with a driving bass line and haunting synths layered over propulsive drums. The lyrics deal with themes of feeling lost and out of place, with lead singer Bernard Sumner’s vocals delivering a melancholic and introspective performance. The song is a testament to New Order’s ability to create a unique and powerful sound, blending elements of dance, post-punk, and alternative rock into a memorable and impactful musical statement.
Jason Smith is a frequent contributor to Singers Room. Since 2005, Singersroom has been the voice of R&B around the world. Connect with us via social media below.
