The character first appeared, nameless, in Avery's 1943 cartoon "Dumb-Hounded". Though he was not called "Droopy" onscreen until his fifth cartoon, "Señor Droopy" (1949), the character was already named "Droopy" in model sheets for his first cartoon. He was officially first labeled "Happy Hound", a name used in the character's appearances in "Our Gang Comics". He starred in 24 theatrical cartoons, ending in 1958 as a result of MGM closing its cartoon department. The character has been revived several times for new productions including films and television shows also featuring MGM's other famous cartoon stars, Tom and Jerry, either as their ally or enemy.