wilsonblogclassic® Originally posted Saturday, April 18, 2009

In the spring of 1953, pop songstress Patti Page had what would become one of her biggest hits when the delightfully absurd, and yet entirely charming (How Much Is That) Doggie in the Window went to the number one position on the Billboard Top 100 charts. Doggie in the Window was Page's fourth # 1 hit and is, to this day, still one of her most popular and requested songs. The song, written by Bob Merrill and adorably underscored by barking, not by dogs, but by Ms. Page's musical arranger (and others), told the story of a young lady wanting to buy a puppy for her sweetheart so he wouldn't be lonesome after she went away. Doggie in the Window was a cultural phenomenon. The simple yet memorable tune delighted listeners; both young and old alike, substantially increased puppy purchases across the nation, and was credited for an 8% rise in the American Kennel Club's annual registrations. The song would stay at number one for eight weeks and would be on the Hot 100 list for a total of 21, selling over 2 million copies. But nothing last forever and eventually the squeaky clean sound and attitude of early fifties pop music would have to make way for something new, Rock and Roll. Never again would a warm, cuddly puppy be quite enough to satisfy young love.

How much is that doggie in the window? (arf! arf!)
The one with the waggle-ly tail
How much is that doggie in the window? (arf! arf!)
I do hope that doggie's for sale

I must take a trip to California
And leave my poor sweetheart alone
If he has a dog, he won't be lonesome
And the doggie will have a good home

How much is that doggie in the window? (arf! arf!)
The one with the waggle-ly tail
How much is that doggie in the window? (arf! arf!)
I do hope that doggie's for sale

I read in the paper there are robbers (woof! woof!)
With flashlights that shine in the dark
My love needs a doggie to protect him
And scare them away with one bark

I don't want a bunny or a kitty
I don't want a parrot that talks
I don't want a bowl of little fishies
He can't take a goldfish for a walk

How much is that doggie in the window? (arf! arf!)
The one with the waggle-ly tail
How much is that doggie in the window? (arf! arf!)
I do hope that doggie's for sale
I do hope that doggie's for sale

Note: Arf! Arf! sounds like a small dog.
Woof! Woof! sounds like a big dog.