Billy Covington If you’re a dog lover and have seen the Subaru Crosstrek commercial, you may have wondered about the breed of the adorable pooch who is featured in the ad. The dog’s playful attitude and adventurous spirit perfectly embody the crossover SUV’s tagline, "Get out and do more." In this article, we unveil the breed of dog in the Subaru Crosstrek commercial and explore Subaru’s use of furry friends in their branding and marketing strategy.
The Dog Breed in the Subaru Crosstrek Commercial
The dog featured in the 2020 Subaru Crosstrek commercial is a Golden Retriever, a popular breed known for its friendly temperament, intelligence, and loyalty. Goldens were originally bred in Scotland for hunting and have been America’s third most popular dog breed for years. Golden Retrievers are also well-known for being great family pets, making them a perfect fit for the outdoor-loving, family-oriented Subaru brand.
Golden Retrievers are medium-to-large sized dogs that weigh between 55 to 75 pounds and stand up to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. They have a thick, wavy, golden coat that needs regular grooming to maintain. Their playful and friendly nature makes them great playmates for children and other dogs.
Subaru’s Love for Dogs in Branding and Marketing
Subaru has been using dogs in their branding and advertising campaigns for years, and it’s no coincidence why. They’re partnering with the ASPCA since 2007, and they’ve donated over $30 million to help shelter pets nationwide. Their association with dogs aims to build a connection with dog owners, who make up a significant portion of Subaru’s customer base. In 2019, the brand’s official tagline changed from "Love, it’s what makes a Subaru a Subaru" to "More than a car, it’s a Subaru," which aims to promote a sense of adventure and lifestyle along with practicality.
Subaru’s marketing campaigns feature real dogs in real-life situations. By showcasing dogs in their ads, Subaru not only appeals to pet owners but also shows their appreciation for the diverse lifestyles that their customers lead. While the dogs do not talk or drive the car, they are seen as a member of the family whose needs need to be taken care of, which Subaru addresses through their vehicles’ safety and practicality features.
Marketing with Dogs: Effective or Overused?
Subaru’s use of dogs in their branding has been effective in wooing pet owners and outdoor enthusiasts. A study by the American Marketing Association found that advertisements featuring animals are more memorable, more likely to be shared, and evoke stronger emotional responses than those without animals. Dogs are seen as loyal, friendly, and relatable, making them an excellent choice for brands looking to foster emotional connections with customers.
However, Subaru isn’t the only brand using pets in their marketing strategies. From Budweiser’s Clydesdales to GEICO’s gecko, many companies feature furry friends in their ads. This trend has led some marketers to question whether using animals in advertising campaigns is overused and no longer effective. Critics argue that too many brands are jumping on the bandwagon and diluting the effectiveness of using pets in advertising.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What other dog breeds does Subaru use in their commercials?
Subaru has featured a variety of dog breeds in their commercials, including Bulldogs, Basset Hounds, and Labrador Retrievers, among others.
Is there a reason why Subaru’s marketing campaigns focus on outdoor activities?
Subaru’s all-wheel-drive cars are known for their capability in rugged terrain and outdoor activities. Highlighting the vehicle’s ability to take consumers to their outdoor adventures provides a practical selling point while also promoting the brand’s adventurous and active lifestyle.
Are Golden Retrievers good family pets?
Yes, Golden Retrievers are great family pets. They are friendly, loyal, and playful, making them great companions for children and other dogs. However, they require plenty of exercise and regular grooming due to their thick coat.
Conclusion
Subaru’s use of dogs in their advertising campaigns, including the Golden Retriever in their Crosstrek commercial, is an effective branding strategy. By using furry friends, they’ve been able to forge emotional connections with pet owners while also promoting their vehicles’ practicality and capability. While some marketers argue that using animals in advertising is overused, Subaru’s loyal customer base suggests otherwise. The use of Golden Retriever in their Crosstrek commercial is a perfect example of how animals can be used to evoke emotions, connect with customers, and tell a brand’s story.
