$FIDO

The First Dog (1984)

Fido earned the distinction of being the first dog to grace the emerging internet—not on the World Wide Web, but via Fidonet in 1984. Fidonet was a grassroots network that linked hobbyist computer systems all around the world.

Fido quickly became a mascot for the vibrant and curious spirit of early digital pioneers. More than just a charming novelty, he embodied the excitement and innovation of a time when people were just discovering the potential of online communication and file sharing.

Beyond being a quirky icon, Fido actually served as a functional platform—a kind of virtual hangout—where users could exchange messages and files. In that sense, Fido wasn’t just symbolic: he was a key figure in fostering one of the earliest digital communities.