Why Do We Love Snoopy So Much?

While watching the Macy’s Thanksgiving Parade, I saw a very familiar, very beloved float enter the screen. Snoopy was back! Around the holidays, I always notice an influx of the beloved Peanuts character. Whether I’m on social media or in TJMaxx he always pops up just a little bit more. It’s a subtle change, but by December, I start thinking of this cartoon dog more and more. Perhaps it's due to the holiday classics featuring the pup. Maybe it’s because, around the holidays, we all get a little cozier, a little gentler, and find joy in the cutest cartoon dog. As we enter December, we are surely in Snoopy’s month! I’ve already noticed the videos circulating, random Tupperware on sale, and the themed holiday parties. He appears in the strangest places! It leads me to think: Why Snoopy?

(Photo from vanityfair.com)

Snoopy first appeared in comics drawn by Charles M. Schulz in October of 1950. The artist was inspired by his own beagle, Spike. Spike was adopted by Schulz in 1927 and would come to inspire the many adventures the cartoon dog would take in his lifetime. However, many cartoons have been around since 1950. The ‘50s were an incredible time for comics and saw the creation of many classics, including “Little Archie” and “Dennis The Menace.” These are both titles and characters I’ve become familiar with in pop culture, but none possess the same vitality as Snoopy.

One of the first illustrations of Snoopy published on November 25th, 1950. (Schulzmuseum.org)

There is a timelessness to Snoopy that keeps him relevant year after year. He is in season every season! Peanuts movies for holidays in different months carve out a spotlight for Snoopy year round. This relevancy truly reaches its height, however, during the winter months. Just last year an image of Snoopy went viral! I remember seeing the adorable “Puffer Jacket Snoopy” everywhere. The character is 74 years old and still manages to create new excitement. Despite its quite sudden popularity in 2023, Snoopy first appeared in a puffer jacket on February 20th, 1984. Its recent resurgence is partially due to a plush Snoopy the Peanuts released inspired by the image. This puffer jacket phenomenon showcases the undeniable marketability of Snoopy.

Snoopy’s first appearance in his famous jacket from 1984. (NPR.org)

The reason as to why and how this beagle has continued to steal America’s hearts lies in the character’s continued adorable, relatable, and funny personality. His simplistic design and memorable place in pop culture across generations have secured his spot in families homes around the world. Snoopy has championed comics, film, merchandise, parades, and the holiday season for decades.

Notably, the Peanuts Franchise’s keen ability to keep the dog within our line of sight year-round has surely aided his popularity. Snoopy is a remarkable success story for comics, illustration, storytelling, and marketing. People of all ages recognize the character. When we see Snoopy, he’s not just some cartoon dog. He is one of the most recognized illustrations ever drawn. With this familiarity comes a lot of love. Don’t forget about Snoopy this holiday season, but then again, how could you?!

By: Lauren Zuzevich