On October 2, 1950, “Peanuts” made its first appearance in comics. Launched in seven newspapers, the four-panel strip introduced the world to Charlie Brown. Just two days later, readers got to meet his pet dog, Snoopy.

Snoopy’s designated birthday is August 10, but today commemorates the day he was first introduced. On October 4, 1950, the beloved dog debuted, and soon readers learned that Snoopy is anything but an ordinary dog.

For the past 74 years, the characters created by Charles Schulz have entertained millions with their unique humor and family-friendly charm. Each character has their own personality traits, from the overbearing Lucy to the thoughtful Linus, but Snoopy stands out as something special.

What breed is Snoopy?

According to his official profile on the Peanuts website, Snoopy is a beagle. While real beagles are often used in hunting, Snoopy’s role transcends that simple description.

Charles Schulz had numerous dogs throughout his lifetime, but his childhood dog, Spike, was the primary inspiration for Snoopy. Spike, a mixed-breed with black-and-white fur, was noted for being quite intelligent, reportedly understanding at least 50 words, as Schulz shared in 1983.

This cleverness and intelligence influenced Snoopy’s character traits. The cartoon beagle is portrayed as a lover of fine art, a root beer enthusiast, and someone who enjoys delicious meals, role-playing, and writing, as depicted in his profile.

Snoopy also has many alter egos, such as “Flying Ace” and “Joe Cool.” Whether he’s in a fierce battle against the Red Baron or showing off his stylish side, Snoopy’s vast and creative imagination allows him to be whoever he wishes.

Snoopy was promoted to “Head Beagle” in the February 16, 1970 Peanuts comic strip, a title that was even acknowledged by then-Los Angeles Mayor Sam Yorty at the time.

Does Snoopy have any siblings?

Initially, Snoopy was introduced as the only dog in his family. In a comic strip from June 6, 1959, Snoopy reflects, “I’ve never had any sisters or brothers. I was an only dog!”

However, Snoopy’s family expanded over the years. In the comic strips, five siblings were later introduced: four brothers—Spike, Marbles, Olaf, and Andy—and a sister named Belle.

Spike first appeared in the August 13, 1975 strip, where Snoopy says, “My brother has arisen! Eggs Benedict for my brother, Spike!”

Belle was the second sibling introduced, debuting on June 28, 1976, as Charlie Brown reads a letter from Snoopy sharing, “I found my sister Belle  and what a reunion we’re having!”

Marbles was introduced in the September 28, 1982 strip when Charlie Brown mentions, “Peppermint Patty said your brother, ‘Marbles,’ is at her house,” to Snoopy.

Snoopy’s audience met Olaf on January 24, 1989, when Lucy declared, “He won! Olaf won! Your brother won the ‘Ugly Dog’ contest!”

In the June 18, 1989 strip, Snoopy sends a Father’s Day letter to his dad, revealing that he had “eight of us in the litter.”

The 1991 television special “Snoopy’s Reunion” disclosed the rest of the litter: Andy, Molly, and Rover. Andy later appeared in the comics.

However, Rover and Molly were never featured or named in the comic strips.