The Dog House was a Los Angeles franchise chain of miniature hot dog stands.

Each stand was a small structure shaped like a traditional dog house (for real pups), topped with a bright red gable roof, a fake (crooked) chimney and a dog house-shaped sign perched on a pole. The whimsical roadside design featured moulded plastic counter stools that looked like fire hydrants.

The chain’s mascot was a grinning Dalmation, enjoying a hot dog and its motto was ‘our dog is man’s best friend.’

The Dog House served Chicago-style foot-long Vienna all-beef hot dogs with a variety of toppings and garnishes, along with hamburgers, sandwiches and breakfast items.

The witty menu offered a Bashful Bassett, A Dog A Bob and a Plush Poodle (rolled in bacon and cheese) among its Weiner offerings. Prices for hot dogs were 30 to 55 cents.

The chain was owned by the Lapin brothers who also started IHOP, (International House of Pancakes) and House of Pies, among other businesses.

The franchisee in the Westwood Village outlet, located on Broxton Avenue where the parking garage is now, was Jack Reitzen and the place was popular with teens, college students, office workers and late-night revelers throughout the 1960s. 

Courtesy Private Collection.