Shutterstock
The 1960s and ‘70s—a time of bell bottoms, lava lamps, disco balls, and an explosion of groovy trends. While people were dancing in their living rooms and naming their kids Sunshine and Moonbeam, they were also bringing home a very specific set of dogs. Some breeds were basically celebrities during that era, showing up in family sitcoms, shag-carpeted living rooms, and station wagons heading to the lake. But these once-iconic dogs slipped into obscurity somewhere between the rise of reality TV and social media fame.
Afghan Hound
Shutterstock
With their long, flowing hair and aloof elegance, Afghan Hounds were the epitome of canine glam in the 1960s and ‘70s. They graced fashion ads, movie sets, and suburban homes with equal flair. Their exotic look and mysterious attitude made them perfect companions for anyone wanting a runway-appeal dog. But their popularity fizzled out as their high-maintenance grooming needs clashed with the fast-paced lifestyles of the following decades. These days, you’re more likely to see one on a vintage poster than at your local dog park.
Irish Setter
Shutterstock
Known for their fiery red coats and friendly temperament, Irish Setters were everywhere in the ‘60s and ‘70s. They starred in commercials, charmed their way into family homes, and were beloved for their playful energy. However, their enthusiasm often translated into wild, bouncy behavior that wasn’t ideal for everyone. As urban living became more common and smaller breeds became popular, the big, boisterous Irish Setter gradually stepped out of the limelight. Today, they’re the lovable redheads that Gen X might remember but younger generations may never have met.
Old English Sheepdog
Shutterstock
This big, lovable ball of fluff was practically a mascot for the 1970s. Whether appearing in Disney movies or bouncing through shaggy-haired commercials, the Old English Sheepdog was as trendy as avocado-green kitchen appliances. With their distinctive coat and goofy charm, they were adored by families across the country. But grooming an Old English Sheepdog is like brushing a yeti daily, and their size makes apartment living tricky. Once adored, now rarely seen—unless you’re flipping through retro dog calendars.
Great Pyrenees
Shutterstock
Great Pyrenees gained attention in the ‘60s and ‘70s for their majestic appearance and calm, protective nature. These gentle giants made ideal watchdogs and were perfect for the rural lifestyles that were still common then. They looked like something out of a fairytale, and many families loved their quiet strength. However, as neighborhoods grew more suburban and dogs became more indoor-oriented, the massive and fiercely independent Great Pyrenees faded from the spotlight. Now, they mostly guard sheep in peace while people say, “Wait—what breed is that again?”
Bearded Collie
Shutterstock
The Bearded Collie was the ultimate groovy companion, rocking long bangs before it was cool. With their upbeat energy and bouncy personalities, they became a family favorite in the 1970s, often portrayed as cheerful playmates in pop culture. But underneath all that charm was a coat that needed constant brushing, and their need for activity could overwhelm more laid-back households. The Beardie quietly slipped off the dance floor as easier-to-manage breeds gained ground. Today, they’re more “Where are they now?” than center stage.
Basenji
Shutterstock
Dubbed the “barkless dog,” the Basenji was a conversation piece in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Who wouldn’t want a dog that didn’t bark and looked like a sleek little fox? Their tidy grooming habits and small size appealed to mid-century modern families. But their strong-willed, independent streak and cat-like attitude didn’t jive with every owner’s expectations. As trends leaned toward ultra-trainable dogs and social butterflies, the mysterious Basenji took a step back into the shadows—still elegant, still unique, but not exactly a household name anymore.
Brittany Spaniel
Shutterstock
Back then, the Brittany Spaniel was a go-to for active families and hunting enthusiasts. Their size was just right—not too big, not too small—and their boundless energy made them great adventure buddies. But when hunting became a less common pastime and the Netflix-and-snack lifestyle took over, Brittany’s popularity declined. They’re still out there, quietly wagging their tails and waiting for someone to throw a ball, but their days of mainstream glory are long past. They’re like the indie band your dad used to love, but you’ve never heard of.
Keeshond
Shutterstock
With its fox-like face and fabulous fur, the Keeshond was once known as the “smiling Dutchman” and enjoyed a nice wave of popularity in the mid-20th century. People were drawn to their expressive faces and affectionate, people-loving personalities. However, that dense double coat needs some serious upkeep, and their vocal tendencies didn’t mesh well with changing lifestyles and closer neighbors. As designer breeds emerged with less fur and fewer decibels, the Keeshond got bumped from center stage. Today, seeing one in public feels like spotting a celebrity from a bygone era.
Gordon Setter
Shutterstock
Once admired for their striking black-and-tan coats and steady hunting skills, Gordon Setters were popular with sportsmen and stylish families in the ‘60s and ‘70s. These dignified dogs brought a certain refinement to their surroundings, and their loyalty made them fantastic companions. But they also needed room to roam and plenty of mental stimulation—two things harder to come by in modern, fast-paced life. As flashier breeds gained attention, the Gordon Setter gradually faded from the spotlight, leaving only whispers of its noble past behind.
Disco Dogs and Dusty Memories
Shutterstock
These fabulous, floofy, and once-famous breeds strutted through the ‘60s and ‘70s like they owned the living room. But alas, time marches on, and the shag carpets are gone, leaving these pups mostly in our photo albums and reruns. These dogs didn’t disappear because they weren’t lovable—they just didn’t keep up with the TikTok generation. So next time you meet one of these vintage vibes on four legs, give them a belly rub and a respectful nod. After all, they once ruled the world (or at least the family station wagon).
Toledo, United States.
