The Black Dog

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For other uses, see Black dog.

The Black Dog was originally a restaurant and tavern in Vineyard Haven on the island of Martha's Vineyard. The restaurant became well known for its souvenir t-shirts, featuring its logo of the eponymous black dog. They subsequently expanded to sell other products with the same logo.

The Black Dog t-shirts became well-known during the 90s as photographs of celebrities wearing the shirts began appearing in national publications. For example, a photograph of then-President Bill Clinton jogging while wearing one was distributed by national wire services.

Marketing at The Black Dog was effective. During the early 90s, the merchandise was only sold at the Martha's Vineyard location. Only a limited number of people were allowed in the store at one time, so lines formed down the wooden fenced ramp that ran from the front door. While waiting in line, visitors were given catalogs to browse. Nowadays, the merchandise is also available at "mainland" Cape Cod and Newport "Black Dog" stores as well as online.