The dogs making it to the best in show competition range from the really spunky little Pekinese to huge Newfoundland dogs with the prettiest black coats ever seen. There are breeds on display that I’ve never even heard of before, not that I spend a lot of time researching dogs.
But, as you might imagine, I have given some thought to the variety of dog collectibles available over the course of time simply because I see them over and over again. And although they often seem to take a back burner to cat items, dogs can make up clever conversation-starting collections too.
After all, even if you just focus on cartoon dogs you’ve got plenty of choices available. There’s Snoopy, Goofy and Huckleberry Hound to contend with. But you wouldn’t want to forget about Marmaduke, Pluto and Scooby Doo would you?
Think I’m just being funny? You might want to consider a few figures before you go barking up the wrong tree.
If you were lucky enough to save your Snoopy phone from the mid-‘70s, you might be able to sell it for $50-75 dollars today. An original animation cel featuring Disney’s Goofy could be worth more than $100. And I’ve seen lapel pins featuring all types of cartoon dogs, including both Snoopy and Goofy, selling for an amazing $25 apiece recently.
Of course, if you’re like me, you prefer the dog collectibles that more closely resemble the real thing. While I don’t find many representations of my own dog, a fluffy white American Eskimo, while I’m visiting the local antiques shops, I do see several other breeds cropping up quite frequently.
One of these is the poodle. Lots of people are familiar with the poodle skirt made popular during the 1950s, but they don’t realize that poodles adorned everything from shower curtains to switchplates back then too. And some of them can be pretty pricey.
A McCoy poodle ceramic planter might set you back $40-50 if you can find one in excellent condition. A Rosenthal poodle figurine dating back 30-40 years would probably go for $125 or more. And a Steiff stuffed poodle named “Snobby” will bring around $150-200.
If you’re not a poodle fan, and lots of people aren’t, then perhaps a German Shepherd would tickle your fancy. From cast metal doorstops to vintage prints from the 1920s, this handsome breed has been depicted in many ways throughout the years.
Or, how about a variety of Royal Doulton dog ceramic figurines? You’ll find lifelike representations of dachshunds, collies, terriers and a host of other breeds with the Doulton mark ranging in price from under $20 to well over $500.
Then there are all the toys, pins and lamps shaped like dogs. The fabrics, purses and puzzles decorated with dogs. And don’t forget the books, postcards and advertisements depicting dogs.
As you see, man’s best friend really gets around. Take a look around your own home. Beyond your own lovable pooch, what kinds of dog collectibles have you accumulated over the years?
