Based on Patrick McDonnell’s own dog, Earl is a small mutt with a big heart and an upbeat, logical outlook on life. He spends most days with his best pal Mooch, and is usually the voice of reason whenever Mooch gets “that wild look” in his eyes. Earl loves squeaky toys, walks, belly rubs, car rides, sunbathing in his inflatable backyard pool, and — most of all — spending quiet moments alone with his beloved guardian, Ozzie. 

Get to know Earl with these strips featuring this beloved pup!

The moment we first met Earl (and Ozzie)!

September 5, 1994 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published September 5, 1994 | Fetch This Strip

When Earl and Mooch first met, they weren’t quite sure about each other, but they quickly became best friends.

September 18, 1994 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published September 18, 1994 | Fetch This Strip

He loves his Ozzie more than anything or anyone.

June 2, 2022 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published June 2, 2022 | Fetch This Strip

Their love is one in a billion.

August 22, 2021 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published August 22, 2021 | Fetch This Strip

He acts as a voice of reason for his best bud, Mooch.

October 14, 2021 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published October 14, 2021 | Fetch This Strip

He LOVES belly rubs.

March 16, 2021 MUTTS Comics Strip

Published March 16, 2021 | Fetch This Strip

Like really, really loves belly rubs.

September 7, 2017 MUTTS Comic StripPublished September 7, 2017 | Fetch This Strip

He also loves his kiddie pool in the summer,

June 18, 2017 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published June 18, 2017 | Fetch This Strip

Long walks,

December 8, 2004 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published December 8, 2004 | Fetch This Strip 

And a good squeaky toy.

April 2, 2015 MUTTS Comic Strip

Published April 2, 2015 | Fetch This Strip

Comments (9)

All of our dog walking group looks forward to me sharing Mutts with them every day. We have especially been tuning in to see if Guard Dog gets adopted (and by whom). Of course we hope it is that little girl ! Thank you Mr. McDonnell

Julia Ward

I too start my day with Mutts. Total good start.

Janet Fithian

Earl and Mooch remind me of my beloved Otto and Oreo. It makes my day reading there adventures. It is the first thing I go to every morning. I love them so much!❤️🐈‍⬛🐕❤️

Celeste Held

Ever since I found this I look forward to the every morning, they start my day with a smile and a good attitude!
Thank you !

Jamie Sommers

Yes either a big smile, or a deep thought .. you never fail ..

Michele COcco

Thank you.❤️🐾

Fran La Mer

I just wish that our whole culture and human community were as sweet and innocent as Earl, Mooch, and the entire Mutts family…well, except for Crabby? They make me feel loved, somehow.

Jane Artabasy

I hope we get to know Schnelly, too!

Susan Winston

What a wonderful way to start my day always with my first cup of coffee.

Linda Pratta