When did Ben the Talking dog come out?

I'm curious to know, when did the phenomenon of 'Ben the Talking Dog' first emerge? Was it a gradual evolution in popular culture or a sudden viral hit? I'm particularly fascinated by the intersection of technology and animals, and Ben's ability to communicate through language seems to blur the lines between the two. Did he gain popularity through social media, or was there another catalyst that propelled him into the public eye? His story could potentially provide insights into how we perceive and engage with animals in the digital age.