The Secret Life of Walter Mitty Dog Names

The Secret Life of Walter Mitty is one of the finest examples of American literature. Other than that, it also made “Walter Mitty” a household name often associated with daydreams and adventure. In fact, the term “Mittyesque”, which is derived from the character’s name, has become a part of English language, which refers to an individual who spends more time daydreaming instead of living in the real world. On a more serious note, the term is also used to denote someone who intentionally misleads others into thinking they are something they’re not.

The character’s prominence in pop culture has made the name “Walter” a common name for a pet. A well-known canine character with this name comes from the series of children’s books known as Walter the Farting Dog. Created by William Kotzwinkle and Glenn Murray, the book’s plot centers on a gassy dog named Walter. The authors first thought of the book idea back in 1990 and were inspired by an actual dog named Walter who was flatulent after his owner fed him beer and doughnuts.

The two writers, with help from Kotzwinkle’s wife Elizabeth Gundy, came up with a story about the dog who was able to overpower burglars thanks to his foul-smelling flatulence. However, because of the eccentric nature and unconventional storyline of the book, Kotzwinkle and Murray had difficulties finding a publisher that was willing to work with them. It was not until over a decade later when North Atlantic Books picked up their story and illustrator Audrey Colman came on board. The first book of the Walter the Farting Dog series was published in 2001 and became a surprise success; it took the number one spot of the children’s bestseller list of The New York Times. After the book became a hit, Penguin Books decided to pick up an entire series, with there being five titles to date. The book series focuses on Walter, who is owned by kids named Betty and Billy. Each book features Walter in a different scenario where he emerges as a hero one way or another.

There is another pop culture dog named Walter who has become famous online recently thanks to the power of social media. Known as Walter Geoffrey the Frenchie, he is a French Bulldog who makes sounds similar to that of a human singer. He even has his own dedicated Instagram account where you can find videos of him “singing”. These videos have gone viral online, amassing millions of views, and have been featured in some notable shows such as The Today Show and The View.