Does anyone remember a tv show that aired in the mid to late 90's on ABC about a family, whose dad was similar to Al Bundy and always went downstairs to talk to a talking monster/animal/puppet or something?

You're thinking of "Unhappily Ever After."

And yes, the similarities between that show and "Married With Children" were intentional: both shows were created and produced by the same people.

You're right about the name of the show but it was on the WB.It was sort of similar except the mom was killed off afterwards,the daughter was the smart one,and they added another kid in.I loved that show