Goofy actor shocks fans after revealing Disney character isn’t even a dog

For almost a century, children, teens and adults have been asking the same head-spinning question about one of Disney's much-loved original characters.

And no, it isn't why Donald Duck wears a jacket but no trousers, or how old Snow White is supposed to be when she's first kissed by the Prince - spoiler, she's thought to be just 14 years old.

Goofy first appeared in 1932. (Disney)

Anyway, as we say, there seems to be an age-old puzzle surrounding one of the first characters developed by the production firm, and that is Goofy.

Hopelessly clumsy and dim-witted, this creature has been drawn donning a turtle neck, waistcoat, signature white gloves, blue trousers and hat since he was first developed all the way back in 1932, when he was initially referred to as 'Dippy Dawg'.

A close friend of the mouse who started it all, Mickey, this cartoon creature has remained a staple representative of Walt Disney himself ever since.

Apparently, however, it was only until recently that many fans of the global childhood brand have made a startling realisation about the canine-esque character.

While many have been under the assumption their whole lives that Goofy is a dog - in the same way Mickey is a mouse and Donald a duck - they've all been proven wrong.

Apparently, Goofy isn't actually a dog. (Group LA via Getty Images)

That's right, despite his lengthy snout, black button nose, whiskers and floppy ears, according to the actor that voiced Goofy for so many years, he isn't actually a canine creature at all.

Apparently, though, when you really think about it, it does make sense.

Mickey himself does have a pet dog named Pluto who - unlike Goofy - shows no resemblance of human characteristics.

And on top of this, throughout the duration of his storyline, Goofy has maintained an on-off relationship with Clarabelle Cow, leading many to wonder what on earth he must be.

If you're still not quite convinced, maybe Bill Farmer - the 'official voice' of Goofy from 1987 right up until now - can clear things up for you.

Speaking to Yahoo Entertainment, he explained: "Goofy is not a dog.

The actor that voiced Goofy has confirmed the news. (Disney Junior via Getty Images)

"Pluto is a dog, but Goofy seems to be in the canine family in the same way that a wolf is not a dog, but they also are in the canine family."

Bill continued: "I think Canis Goofus is the technical Latin term for what Goofy is.

"He’s just Goofy."

Disney fans have since taken to social to share their shock at the revelation.

One wrote: "I will refuse to acknowledge that Goofy is anything but a dog for eternity."

Another added: "WHAT? GOOFY IS NOT A DOG! I am truly shocked."

While a third commented: "They say Hello Kitty isn't a cat too..."