Batman (1940) 92

Founded in 2004 by pet lifestyle expert (is there such a thing?) Colleen Paige, National Dog Day is commemorated to recognize man’s best friend.

Last year’s emcee was Krypto the super dog. This year Batman and Robin’s sidekick Ace, the Bat-Hound, is the spokes dog.

Ace first appeared in Batman (1940) issue 92. Bill Finger and Sheldon Moldoff are the creators of the colorful canine. Taking a nod from such famous four-legged sleuths as Rin Tin Tin and Ace the Wonder Dog, the duo made the four-color Ace a German Shepherd.

Batman (1940) 92

Engraver John Wilker was Ace’s original owner. Following the kidnapping of his master, Ace was recruited by Batman and Robin to find Wilker. Because of a distinctive star-shaped marking on Ace’s forehead, he was masked when working with Batman and Robin.

Ace became a permanent resident of the Bat Cave when Wilker willed his pet to the crime fighters. He would continue exploits into the beginning of the Silver Age before disappearing for two decades.

He returned briefly as a service dog in the early 1990s. Then he was returned to limbo following the No Man’s Land storyline.

Ace became part of the DCU again under the New 52 banner. Damian Wayne would adopt the kennel find, though he would be named Titus.

Most recently, Ace has found a home with the Waynes once again. His origin this time had him serving as a guard dog for the Joker. Each of the pooches had a card symbol; Ace, of course, had an Ace. Butler Alfred Pennyworth rescued him from the pound. Despite his employer’s wishes, Alfred trained the dog and presented him to Bruce Wayne, complete with mask, for Christmas.

Ace has appeared in the animated DCU as well. He was a faithful companion to Bruce Wayne in Batman Beyond, cameoed on Static Shock, guested on Krypto the Superdog and Batman: The Brave and the Bold and starred in various DC Nation Shorts.

To observe National Dog Day, participants are encouraged to honor their furry companions and even consider adopting one.