A special feature on Western music themed around dogs! World classics and popular songs
Dogs are beloved by many as friendly, loyal, and adorable companions.
Do you have a dog?
Many people are surely captivated by their cute mannerisms and their unconditional love.
It’s no surprise that quite a few musicians, enchanted by the charm of dogs, have poured those feelings into their music.
In popular Western music around the world, there are numerous songs that sing about memories with dogs and the special bonds we share with them.
Since these songs aren’t in Japanese, translating the lyrics and imagining their meanings can bring an even deeper sense of emotion.
In this article, we introduce heartwarming songs themed around dogs.
We’ve carefully selected masterpieces we hope dog lovers and music enthusiasts alike will enjoy!
A special feature on Western songs themed around dogs! World-famous and popular tracks (1–10)
Howlin’ For YouThe Black Keys
This song expresses intense desire and affection.
Through the metaphor of a howl, it deftly portrays emotions that can’t be contained.
Blending baseball imagery with primal expressions, it presents a unique take on the complexities of love.
Included on the 2010 album “Brothers,” it was also featured in films such as Deadpool.
It’s recommended listening when you’re driven by powerful feelings and impulses.
A track that distills The Black Keys’ musical essence, it’s a must-listen for blues rock fans.
I Love My DogCat Stevens
A song Cat Stevens wrote when he was young, after encountering a dachshund that had been left tied to a post.
He took the dog home and started living with it.
This song was his first single, and its success on England’s pirate radio stations launched his career.
Diamond DogsDavid Bowie
Set in a ravaged future metropolis, David Bowie spins a feral tale.
The title track of the album Diamond Dogs centers on an antisocial gang inspired by dogs, sharply portraying societal collapse and human instinct.
Released in May 1974, the song has been highly acclaimed as a work that symbolizes Bowie’s musical evolution.
Its raw sound—woven from saxophone and guitar—vividly captures the song’s worldview.
Depicting people living in a world ruled by violence and chaos, this piece is a perfect choice for those who wish to sound an alarm about modern society.
I Wanna Be Your DogThe Stooges
The song from the Stooges’ 1969 debut album, led by Iggy Pop, is a milestone of garage rock.
Its hallmark features are a primitive riff built from just three chords and experimental sonic effects by John Cale.
The lyric “I wanna be your dog” symbolizes love and desire, submission and self-abandonment, reflecting the counterculture of the 1960s.
The track went on to heavily influence later punk and alternative rock, and in 2004 it was selected for Rolling Stone’s “500 Greatest Songs of All Time.” A must-listen for anyone who appreciates raw sound and provocative lyrics.
Hound dogElvis Presley
A message song full of irony for a beloved dog, delivered by the King of Rock ’n’ Roll.
Featuring a powerful beat and passionate vocals, this work stands out for its biting lyrics that liken the other person to a “good-for-nothing dog.” Released in August 1956, it topped the U.
S.
charts for 11 consecutive weeks.
In July of the same year, he appeared on The Steve Allen Show, creating a buzz with a unique performance singing to a real dog.
It’s the perfect track for anyone wanting to overcome heartbreak or assert themselves.
March of the dogsSUM41
This song sharply criticizes political corruption and social chaos.
It likens people who blindly obey those in power to “dogs,” depicting the tragedies caused by their march.
Sum 41’s powerful sound and Deryck Whibley’s passionate vocals amplify the lyrics’ strong message.
Featured on the 2007 album Underclass Hero, it became a track that symbolizes the band’s musical evolution.
It’s recommended for those interested in social issues or seeking energetic music, and it’s also a popular live number that creates a strong sense of unity with the audience.
Hair of the DogNazareth
With its powerful guitar riffs and defiant lyrics, this track stands out as a signature song from the album Hair of the Dog, released in April 1975.
The lyrics use an expression meaning “hair of the dog,” symbolizing the strength to overcome past pain.
This work, which helped Nazareth achieve worldwide recognition, continues to captivate hard rock fans.
Even dog lovers can resonate with the song’s rebellious spirit and message of self-affirmation.
When you need the courage to face adversity, give it a listen.