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The ’90s—an era of dial-up tones, slap bracelets, frosted tips, and dog breeds that seemed everywhere. From starring in feel-good films to stealing scenes in pet food ads, these pups ruled commercials, sitcoms, and neighborhood backyards. They were the ultimate sidekicks to cool kids and cool parents alike. But much like cassette tapes and Tamagotchis, many of these once-iconic breeds have faded from the spotlight, quietly slipping into near obscurity. At the same time, we were busy upgrading to Wi-Fi and streaming everything but their glory days.
Cocker Spaniel
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If there was one dog that ruled the early ’90s in both show rings and family homes, it was the American Cocker Spaniel. With their soulful eyes, long silky ears, and perpetually innocent expression, they were a go-to for families wanting a gentle, loving pet. They were everywhere—featured in movies, dog shows, and enough birthday cards to wallpaper your room. But over time, grooming needs and some unfortunate overbreeding led to a decline in popularity. These days, you don’t see many Cocker Spaniels trotting down the street, but if you do, you might feel an overwhelming urge to hand them a scrunchie and a Game Boy.
Dalmatian
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Thanks to “101 Dalmatians,” this spotty breed exploded in popularity during the ‘90s faster than you could say “Cruella.” Their striking coats and noble posture made them a coveted pet—but many new owners quickly discovered they were high-energy, stubborn, and not exactly the couch potato they imagined. Shelters were unfortunately flooded with surrendered Dalmatians after the craze, leading to a steep decline in the breed’s numbers. These days, Dalmatians are more of a rare fashion statement than a family staple, but they still know how to turn heads faster than a slap bracelet at a Spice Girls concert.
Shar Pei
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With their abundant wrinkles and serious “what are you looking at” expression, Shar Peis became the novelty breed of choice in the ’90s. People loved their unique look and dignified demeanor; you could find them in dog shows and novelty calendars. However, their skin requires serious care, and health issues tied to irresponsible breeding practices led many owners to reconsider. These days, finding a Shar Pei is like finding an actual Furby that still works—possible but rare and a little confusing. They’ve become a wrinkly blast from the past that we don’t see nearly enough anymore.
Old English Sheepdog
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In the ‘90s, the Old English Sheepdog was everywhere—on greeting cards, in Disney movies, and in the hearts of people who loved a big, shaggy canine companion. Their playful nature and iconic “mop-dog” look made them a favorite, especially in family settings. But as grooming trends shifted and people sought easier-to-maintain breeds, the Sheepdog’s popularity declined sharply. Not to mention, they’re not exactly suited for apartment living or casual vacuuming. Today, seeing one is like a ‘90s reunion special—nostalgic, heartwarming, and way too rare.
Lhasa Apso
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This ancient Tibetan breed had its shining moment in the ‘90s, often mistaken for its cousin, the Shih Tzu, but with a little more aloofness and royal attitude. Their long, flowing coats and compact size made them appealing for small households and urban living. However, they require much grooming and don’t always vibe with small kids or chaos. As families gravitated toward more low-maintenance or cuddly breeds, the Lhasa Apso quietly exited the stage. Today, they’re like the Lisa Frank stickers of the dog world—colorful, classy, and sadly a bit forgotten.
Afghan Hound
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With runway-worthy locks and a gaze that says, “I’ve seen more couture than you,” the Afghan Hound had a strange but fabulous spike in popularity in the ‘90s. Their elegant, mysterious aura made them a hit in dog shows and high-brow households. However, their aloof temperament and grooming needs are not for the average owner, which led to a decline as the decades passed. They’re still around but far from common—kind of like velvet chokers and butterfly clips. If you see one, it’s a glamorous blast from a fluffier time.
Keeshond
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With its fox-like face and thick coat, the Keeshond was a beloved family pet in the ‘90s, thanks to its affectionate nature and moderate size. They were especially popular in northern regions due to their love of cooler climates and their history as barge watchdogs. But the rise of smaller companion breeds and hypoallergenic dogs pushed the Keeshond out of the spotlight. Today, they’re as underrated as a ’90s sitcom that never made it past season two. If you ever meet one, hug them—you might not see another for a while.
English Setter
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Elegant and athletic, English Setters were popular in the ‘90s for those wanting a sporting dog with a soft side. Their speckled coats and graceful movements gave them a classic charm that appealed to outdoorsy families and show dog fans alike. However, their need for exercise, space, and time-intensive grooming made them less attractive in the modern era of compact homes and busy schedules. Now, they’ve faded into the background like a forgotten mixtape. It’s still beautiful and sweet, but it’s not trending anymore.
Smooth Fox Terrier
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The Smooth Fox Terrier had its heyday in the ’90s as an energetic, clever companion with a dash of sass and a lot of bounce. Known for their intelligence and confidence, they thrived in active households that could keep up with their brains and zoomies. But as flashier breeds entered the scene and folks leaned toward cuddlier or calmer dogs, the Smooth Fox Terrier slipped off the radar. These days, spotting one is like hearing a dial-up tone—it takes you back, and you kind of miss it.
Basset Hound
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Long ears, sad eyes, comedic timing—the Basset Hound was a familiar face in ’90s pop culture, from commercials to cartoons to comic strips. Their easy-going, low-maintenance nature made them a staple in homes that wanted a relaxed companion with a lot of character. But times changed, and people wanted more active, hypoallergenic, or designer dogs. The Basset has taken a backseat in recent years, showing up mostly as a nostalgia trip for people who remember their ears flopping through every doorway.
Irish Setter
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The Irish Setter and their glossy red coat once pranced through TV ads, dog shows, and sunny family outings like they were the star of a ‘90s soap opera. Gorgeous, friendly, and full of energy, they were a symbol of elegance and fun. However, they require space, patience, and enough exercise to rival a marathon runner. Today, they’re far less common—like a discontinued soda flavor that once had a cult following. But those who know them still dream of that ginger glow.
Chow Chow
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Chow Chows strutted through the ‘90s like royal lions, with their thick coats and signature blue-black tongues. People were obsessed with their bear-like looks and stoic personalities. Unfortunately, their aloof nature, grooming needs, and occasional behavioral challenges meant they weren’t a match for every household. As the demand shifted toward more easygoing or hypoallergenic breeds, the Chow Chow’s reign began to wane. Still, when one walks by today, heads turn and whispers of, “Is that a lion?” echo like a scene from a vintage VHS.
English Toy Spaniel
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Often overshadowed by the more popular Cavalier King Charles Spaniel, the English Toy Spaniel had a devoted following in the ‘90s thanks to its gentle demeanor and regal charm. These tiny, affectionate dogs were ideal for quieter households and doting seniors. But their popularity never quite boomed; over time, they faded further from the spotlight. Now, they’re like a niche ‘90s indie band—known by a few, loved by fewer, but still deserving of a comeback.
The Retro Rovers You Totally Missed
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These canine icons of the ’90s have quietly stepped out of the spotlight, much like cassette tapes and frosted tips. Once stars of our screens and backyards, they’ve faded into near obscurity—but their charm is timeless. So if you spot one of these furry throwbacks, show them some love—they’re vintage classics. And hey, maybe they’re just one Netflix cameo away from a full-blown comeback. After all, if scrunchies and bucket hats can return, so can these beloved pups. The reboot potential is strong with this one.
Toledo, United States.
