Was Petey in “The Little Rascals” a Pit Bull?

The dog who gained fame in “The Little Rascals” or “Our Gang” TV shows, Pete the Pup, was an American pit bull terrier; the canine’s ancestor, Pal the Wonder Dog, was also a pit bull terrier. The ring around Pete the Pup’s eye made him instantly recognisable, and Petey was occasionally used in place of Pete.

Pete was registered with the American Kennel Club as a Staffordshire terrier even though he was a pit bull. Since the AKC first began using the term in 1935, it is believed that Pete was one of the first dogs to be registered as a Staffordshire terrier by the organisation. The United Kennel Club also recorded Pete under the name Purple Ribbon Peter.

Although several other dogs played the part of Petey, only Pete the Pup was as well-liked. He was well-known for his ability to react precisely when needed, and he forged close bonds with the young viewers of the programme.

Old age claimed Pete the Pug in 1946. He is interred in California’s Los Angeles Pet Memorial Park. Pete was recalled by his owner Harry Lucenay as a dog who was playful, warm, and gentle and who slept at the foot of his bed. Pete lived to be 18 years old.