Charlie is a mixed breed dog defined by one desire, getting adopted by a master. He knows all the ways to play the cute puppy and proudly claims descent from numerous breeds. But his agressive self-promotion puts off masters. Add an unwillingness to quit and you have a dog that can really ruin your day.Â
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The basic concept was introduced in the cartoon short “Porky’s Pooch” (1941) by Robert Clampett. Though the dog was called “Rover”. His chosen master being Porky Pig. The cartoon had a happy ending with the two finally bonding.Â
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Clampett never re-used the character. Chuck Jones revived “Rover” under a new name in “Little Orphan Airdale” (1947). The story was essentially a remake of the former short. With a twist ending. Porky changes his mind and once again throws out the dog. Jones used Charlie in four other cartoons. Two of them had him co-starring with Porky, two feature Charlie alone. His best remembered short is probably “The Awful Orphan” (1949) which has Porky suffering a nervous breakdown. Resulting in Charlie held prisoner in his new home by a feral Porky. Â
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The last major appearance of Charlie was in “A Hound for Trouble” (1951). Chuck jones never reused him. Charlie next had a cameo in “Dog Tales” (1958) by Bob McKimson. Charlie remains a minor but memorable character. He has made frequent cameos since the 1990s. But has not returned to stardom.Â