Noah GalutenThe Dodger Dog is one of the most famous hot dogs in American sporting (and eating) history. It's iconic, storied and quintessentially Los Angeles. So in honor of our hometown team still holding the best record in the National League, we take a look at the history of L.A.'s most beloved dog, through pictures.
(L-R) The Morrell Meat Company was the first to make Dodger Dogs, and a vintage L.A. Dodgers Magazine, featuring the famed dog.
The Dodger Dog was invented by Thomas Arthur, the very first concessions manager of Dodger Stadium back in 1962. He called it a “foot long dog,” even though it was only ten inches. People complained about the name, so he came up with a new one, “Dodger Dog.” It was probably a good decision.
Thomas Arthur, inventor of the Dodger Dog.; Credit: Photo Courtesy of The Los Angeles Dodgers
In 1972, Farmer John (a big-time Dodgers sponsor) took over the hot dog making duties from the Morrell Meat Company. Then, in the mid 90's, they tried to switch from grilling the dogs to boiling them. The fans were irate, and this terrible new idea was quickly put to pasture.
Ron Cey, Steve Garvey and Tommy Lasorda hand out Dodger Dogs at the store in Universal Citywalk; Credit: Photo Courtesy of The Los Angeles Dodgers
Today, Dodger Dogs are still the big ticket item (they sell roughly 25,000 per game), but they aren't the only option to satisfy your love of protein cylinders. Your dogs can be offered up steamed or grilled, or in the form of Super Dogs (all beef), picante dogs (spicy) or kosher dogs (courtesy of the Sandy Koufax-friendly Hebrew National).
The incomporable Tommy Lasorda opening the Dodger Dog at the Universal Citywalk.; Credit: Photo: Courtesy of the Los Angeles Dodgers
But wait. There's more. Veggie dogs are available upon request in the suites and clubs (apparently vegetarians don't sit in the upper deck), and there are even brats, Polish sausages and Louisiana hot sausages from Saag's Specialty Meats and Sausages.
What's been injected by more hormones, this Dodger Dog or Manny Ramirez?; Credit: Photo Credit: Bryce Edwards
Now, you don't even have to go to Dodger games to eat Dodger Dogs. They're available at Dodger Dog restaurants, supermarkets and oddly enough, at a AAA ballpark in Oklahoma City, where they also offer the Fenway Frank, the Cincinnati Cheese Coney, the Milwaukee Brat, and The Red Hot Chicago Dog.
So, are you ready for a dog and a beer yet? Is Manny?
Dodger Stadium: 1000 Elysian Park Ave, Los Angeles; (323) 363-4377. Dodger Dog: 1000 Universal Studios Blvd, Universal City; (818) 622-2364.
Advertising disclosure: We may receive compensation for some of the links in our stories. Thank you for supporting LA Weekly and our advertisers.