Pooch is definitely an old word, as someone has pointed out it is of European origin where similar variations of the word were terms of endearment given to pet dogs.

I had a toy in the 1980s called a 'Poochie' dog 😊 They were really popular at one point, and obviously named for the 'Pooch' connection.

I have not heard the term 'Pooch' being used that much in my adult years so it must have made a comeback. It's a way to cuten up a headline I suppose.

I hate the terms 'doggo' and 'puppers', but I am guilty of still referring to my adult dog as 'my pup'. She is tiny and naughty so it fits her better 😅