What Type of Dog Was Petey in “The Little Rascals?”
Pete the Pup, the dog that rose to popularity in “The Little Rascals” or “Our Gang” television series, was an American pit bull terrier; the original Pete was Pal the Wonder Dog, also an American pit bull terrier. Pete the Pup was easily recognized by the ring around his eye and was sometimes referred to as “Petey” instead of Pete.
Although he was a pit bull, Pete was registered as a Staffordshire terrier by the American Kennel Club. It is said that Pete was one of the first dogs to be registered as a Staffordshire terrier by the AKC, since the organization only started using the name in 1935. Pete was also registered by the United Kennel Club as Purple Ribbon Peter.
Although several other dogs played the role of Petey, none were as beloved as Pete the Pup. He was known for his ability to respond on cue, and he developed a strong relationship with the children on the show.
Pete the Pup died of old age in 1946. He is buried in Los Angeles Pet Memorial Park in California. Pete lived to be 18 years old and was remembered by his owner, Harry Lucenay, as a dog that was playful, warm and gentle and that slept at the foot of his bed.
