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A coveted toy for well-to-do children in the late 19th century, this little fella has a face only his mother could love (but we still adore him anyway)!
Commonly referred to as a "growler" toy for its internal sound box that is activated by pulling the dog's leash, these life-size canines were originally made in France in the 1890s. They were modeled in papier-mache and fashioned after a variety of popular breeds of the time including the French bulldog, English bulldog, Boston Terrier and the rare French Snapping Bulldog.
The higher quality creations, such as this one, had more sculptural features such as individualized toes, muscular hind ends and an articulated rib cage.
We don't know which breed this handsome little guy is supposed to be. He has the underbite and stance of an English bulldog, but the erect ears of a French bulldog. Perhaps this is the first mutt toy! Who knows!
We do know that he is a less-common colorway for this toy. The black and white growlers were far more common than the brindle variety.
Either way, this cutie is flocked to give the feel of real fur. He has realistic glass eyes and tiny wooden wheels embedded in the pads of his feet, so you can take him on a walk. His head even nods when he moves!
He also has his original leather studded badger hair collar, though a lot of the hair has been lost to time.
However, the best part of this toy is his growl! Just give a little tug on his leash and his mouth opens and he lets out an audible growl (that also kind of sounds like a snort, but it's still super cute)!
If you're looking for a new best friend, but don't want to break the bank on pet food, vet bills and chewed up shoes, this guy is for you!
Additional Details
Date: 1890s-1900s
Materials: Papier-mache, glass, wood, metal
Measurements: 19" x 7" x 11"
Markings: None
Condition: Good
It is obvious that this toy has been played with and well loved. I'm sure it has a lot of fun stories to tell! It is missing a lot of its original flocking on its body. One leg is a little bowlegged. His nose is scuffed. His leather collar has been repaired by our leather expert, but it is missing the majority of the horse hair on it's collar. BUT! He is still functioning just as well as he did when he was brand new. His mouth opens and closes and, most importantly, his growler still works. (And he is potty trained.)
Cleaning and Care
Dust gently with a soft bristled brush or canned air held from a distance.
