History of The Hot Dog

Written by: Paige Leal

Eating a hot dog on a warm summer day spent swimming in the pool, eating fruit and hanging out with friends and family has to be one of the top experiences as a human. 

The hot dog may seem like a modern food meant only for baseball games and summer cookouts, but its history goes back much further than most people realize. Long before hot dogs were served in buns, sausages were being made in Europe as a way to preserve meat. Over time, this simple idea traveled across continents and evolved into the hot dog we know today.

European Roots

The hot dog’s story begins in Germany and Austria. Germans created sausages known as frankfurters. Frankfurters were named after the city, you guessed it, Frankfurt. There were also similar sausages called Vienna sausages that came from Austria. These sausages were typically made from beef, pork, or both together. They were very seasoned then stuffed into casings and cooked. These sausages were popular because they were flavorful, filling, and easy to prepare. 

Hot Dogs in America

In the 1800s, German immigrants brought their sausage making traditions with them to the United States. These sausages became especially popular in cities, where street vendors sold them hot and ready to eat. Some things never change, as in NYC today the streets are full of hot dog vendors. Anyway, Vendors eventually began serving the sausages inside rolls or buns, making them easier to hold while walking. This simple change helped turn the sausage into a true street food.

Origin of “Hot Dog”

The name “hot dog” came from early 20th century slang and cartoons. People had joked about the mystery meat inside sausages, and cartoonists drew dachshund dogs inside buns. Even though no actual dog meat was involved, the nickname stuck. By the early 1900s, “hot dog” was widely used and accepted.

An American Icon

Today, hot dogs are closely tied to American culture. They are a staple at events yearly, such as baseball games, fairs, Fourth of July celebrations. While their roots stretch back to Europe, hot dogs have become one of the most dynamic American foods, showing how immigration and culture can shape something as simple as what we eat.