Rufus Thomas was a Memphis soul legend known for his funky, playful style and energetic performances.
As a DJ and performer, he helped shape the sound of Southern soul through his work with Sun Records and Stax Records, delivering fun, danceable hits with a humorous twist.
About the Song
Walking the Dog feels playful, cheeky, and full of swagger. Rufus Thomas brings a fun, flirty energy that makes the song light-hearted and perfect for dancing. It’s all about having a good time with a wink and a groove.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Released | November 1963 |
| Album | The Very Best Of Rufus Thomas |
| Writer | Rufus Thomas |
| Producer | Jim Stewart |
Walking the Dog Lyrics by Rufus Thomas
Verse 1
Mary Mack, dressed in black
Silver buttons all down her back
High to low, tip to toe
She broke a needle and she can’t sew
Chorus
Walkin’ the dog
Just a-walkin’ the dog
If you don’t know how to do it
I’ll show you how to walk the dog
C’mon now, c’mon, c’mon
Verse 2
Asked my mama for fifteen cent
See the elephant jump the fence
He jumped so high, he touched the sky
Never got back ’til the Fourth of July
Chorus
Walkin’ the dog
Just a-walkin’ the dog
If you don’t know how to do it
I’ll show you how to walk the dog
C’mon now, c’mon, c’mon
Verse 3
Mary, Mary, quite contrary
Tell me, how does your garden grow?
You got silver bells and you got cockle shells
Pretty maids all in a row
Chorus
Walkin’ the dog
Just a-walkin’ the dog
If you don’t know how to do it
Show you how to walk the dog
C’mon now, c’mon, c’mon
Outro
Oh, oh
Just-a, just-a, just a-walkin’
Just-a, just-a, just a-walkin’
Just-a, just-a, just a-walkin’
Oh yeah
If you don’t know how to do it
I’ll show you how to walk the dog
Oh
Just-a, just-a, just-a, just-a, just-a, just a-walkin’
Just-a, just-a, just-a, just-a, just-a, just-a, just a-walkin’
Oh, oh, whoa
Just-a, just-a, just a-walkin’
Similar Songs Like Walking the Dog
Here are songs that are similar to ‘Walking the Dog,’ capturing that same blend of playful funk, upbeat soul, and humorous storytelling.
- Do the Funky Chicken: This song is pure fun, full of silliness and infectious joy. It’s made to make you laugh, get up, and start dancing like nobody’s watching.
- Jump Back: There’s a confident, cool swagger in this song. It gives off a vibe of streetwise fun—like someone showing off their best moves at a block party.
- Funky Mississippi: It feels bold and proud, with a funky edge. There’s a mix of soulful past and dance-floor-ready beats, showing pride in Southern roots.
Similar Artists Like Rufus Thomas
These musicians share Rufus Thomas’s blend of rhythm, energy, and soul—whether it’s funk, R&B, or classic soul-blues fusion.
- Wilson Pickett
Genre: Soul, R&B
Top Album: The Exciting Wilson Pickett (1966) - Otis Redding
Genre: Soul
Top Album: Otis Blue: Otis Redding Sings Soul (1965) - James Brown
Genre: Funk, Soul
Top Album: Live at the Apollo (1963) - Sam & Dave
Genre: Soul, R&B
Top Album: Hold On, I’m Comin’ (1966)
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Meaning Behind Walking the Dog?
The song uses walking the dog as a playful excuse to flirt and connect with someone. It’s a light-hearted metaphor for making a move on someone charming.
Why Does the Song Reference Nursery Rhymes?
Rufus uses “Miss Mary Mack” and other rhymes for playful familiarity. It adds humor and rhythm, making the song catchy, nostalgic, and fun for listeners of all ages.
Was Walking the Dog Ever Covered by Other Artists?
Yes, many artists have covered it, including The Rolling Stones and Aerosmith. Its simplicity and groove make it a favorite across rock, blues, and soul genres.
