Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast: Recent Episodes

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In this episode, Bud Boccone separates fact from fiction as he answers questions about the Titanic, allergy season, studbooks, and all kinds of other dog-related trivia.

However many thousands of years we spend getting to know dogs, it seems there is always something new to learn. From their origins to survival stories, dogs lead fascinating lives. For humans, observing, collecting, and contemplating canine histories moves us closer to understanding ourselves.

Bonafide Bits:

• There is no dog breed (or mix of dog breeds) that is truly hypoallergenic.
• Only three dogs survived the sinking of the Titanic, two Pomeranians and a Pekingese.
• In some circumstances, the Bloodhound is the only dog whose evidence is admissible in 44 U.S. state courts.

Featured Breeds:

Pomeranian

• The fluffy Pomeranian is one of the world’s most popular toy breeds — and for good reason! These dogs may weigh less than seven pounds, but they have a commanding presence and a big personality. Unlike many spitz dogs, the Pom has always been a companion breed and royals and notable historical figures, including Marie Antoinette and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, were enthusiasts. Discover more about Pomeranians at AKC’s Pomeranian Breed Biography.

Pekingese

• Pekingese are compact, stocky toy dogs weighing up to 14 pounds. The coat is longest at the neck and shoulders, giving Pekes their famous “lion’s mane.” Coats come in various reds, from golden red to darker shades. The large, short-muzzled head is a wider-than-long, envelope-shaped rectangle, and the eyes are large, dark, and sparkly. A unique feature of Pekes is their effortless “rolling” gait. Pekes are charming, confident companions who develop a tight bond with their favorite human. Ever alert, they make good watchdogs. Pekes will tolerate kids but won’t stand for a lot of roughhousing. Discover more about Pekingese at AKC’s Pekingese Breed Biography.

Greyhound

• Greyhounds are the essence of the dog breeder’s credo “Form follows function.” From the narrow, aerodynamic skull to the shock-absorbing pads of the feet, Greyhounds are perfectly constructed for high-speed pursuit. The lean beauty of the Greyhound’s “inverted S” shape, created by the deep chest curving gently into a tightly tucked waist, has been an object of fascination for artists, poets, and kings for as long as human beings have called themselves civilized. Greyhounds are the template from which other coursing hounds have been struck. Discover more about Greyhounds at AKC’s Greyhound Breed Biography.

Great Dane

• The easygoing Great Dane, the mighty “Apollo of Dogs,” is a total joy to live with — but owning a dog of such imposing size, weight, and strength is a commitment not to be entered into lightly. This breed is indeed great, but not a Dane. Discover more about Great Danes at AKC’s Great Dane Breed Biography.

Schipperke

• Standing no higher than 13 inches, Schipperkes are small dogs built for hard work. Schips were created as ratters and watchdogs. Their powerful jaws, necks, and forequarters coupled with a stealthy, catlike hunting style make them ideal rat-catching machines. The black coat is profuse around the neck, shoulders, and legs, giving the breed a silhouette that accentuates a thick, substantial body. The foxy face completes the unique look of a unique breed. If you can’t tell a Schipperke from an ordinary dog, you simply haven't been paying attention. Discover more about Schipperkes at AKC’s Schipperke Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Dog show handlers often pay a hotel “pee fee” that permits special “in-hotel” potty areas for their canine charges.
• Do you know the breeds of the three dogs that survived the sinking of the Titanic?
• More than a century’s worth of studbooks are preserved in the AKC archives.

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In this podcast episode, we explore the greatest sniffing machines in the world of dogdom: the tireless, gentle, and beloved Bloodhounds.

The Bloodhound’s exceptional scenting ability has been a cornerstone of modern crime fighting and search and rescue efforts for generations. There is no equal to this dog’s olfactory talent for picking up a scent and following its trail. Bloodhounds are tenacious scent-tracking powerhouses that require only food, companionship, and plenty of walks (so they can check their pee-mail, as they say).

Bonafide Bits:

• Bloodhounds are estimated to have three times more scent receptors than other dogs.
• Dogs’ olfactory systems project an “odor image” similar to how photographs capture scenes.
• In 1848, Lyricist Barry Cornwall wrote the song Bloodhound as an ode to the breed’s friendly nature.
• Kentucky Bloodhound “Nick Carter” is a Master Detective and an American legend.
• In 2022, “Trumpet” was the first Bloodhound to win Best in Show at the Westminster Kennel Club dog show.

Featured Breeds:

Bloodhound

• Bloodhounds are large, substantial dogs standing 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 110 pounds. Their most famous features are a long, wrinkled face with loose skin; huge, drooping ears; and warm, deep-set eyes that complete an expression of solemn dignity. Coat colors can be black and tan, liver and tan, or red. Powerful legs allow Bloodhounds to scent over miles of punishing terrain. As pack dogs, Bloodhounds enjoy company, including other dogs and kids. They are easygoing, but their nose can sometimes lead them into trouble. A strong leash and long walks in places where they can enjoy sniffing around are recommended. Discover more about Bloodhounds at AKC’s Bloodhound Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• A dog’s olfactory bulb is impressive. It is relatively 40 times larger than a human’s olfactory bulb.
• Some quip that “a Bloodhound is a nose with a dog attached.”
• After 50 hours of searching, the Bloodhound Buttercup discovered James Earl Ray, the convicted assassin of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., hiding deep in the Tennessee woods after he and six other inmates escaped from prison.

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In this episode, we explain how the Non-Sporting group came to be, and why the breeds that comprise the group don’t have much more than their shared group designation in common!

The twenty-one different breeds currently recognized in this group range in size and stature, and some of them are downright, well, sporty. But what they do share often comes down to their original purpose and how the modern world has moved on, while these breeds stayed constant and ever-loyal like any good dog.

Bonafide Bits:

• Dalmatians are the only dogs bred specifically to accompany carriages.
• Fearless Bulldogs were bred with tenacious terriers to create cunning rat killers.
• A Boston Terrier is the official mascot of Boston University.
• In a triumphant recovery story, Chinese Shar-Peis were once listed as the world’s rarest dog breed in the Guinness Book of World Records.
• The impossibly cute Bichon Frise were once prized circus performers.

Featured Breeds:

Dalmatian

• The dignified Dalmatian, dogdom’s citizen of the world, is famed for his spotted coat and unique job description. During their long history, these “coach dogs” have accompanied the horse-drawn rigs of nobles, gypsies, and firefighters. Discover more about Dalmatians at AKC’s Dalmatian Breed Biography.

Bulldog

• You can’t mistake a Bulldog for any other breed. The loose skin of the head, furrowed brow, pushed-in nose, small ears, undershot jaw with hanging chops on either side, and the distinctive rolling gait all practically scream “I’m a Bulldog!” The coat, seen in a variety of colors and patterns, is short, smooth, and glossy. Bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds, but that won’t stop them from curling up in your lap or at least trying to. Bulldogs enjoy brisk walks and need regular moderate exercise, along with a careful diet, to stay trim. Discover more about Bulldogs at AKC’s Bulldog Breed Biography.

Boston Terrier

• The Boston Terrier is a lively little companion recognized by his tight tuxedo jacket, sporty but compact body, and the friendly glow in his big, round eyes. His impeccable manners have earned him the nickname “The American Gentleman.” Discover more about Boston Terriers at AKC’s Boston Terrier Breed Biography.

French Bulldog

• The one-of-a-kind French Bulldog, with his large bat ears and even disposition, is one of the world’s most popular small-dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. The Frenchie is playful, alert, adaptable, and completely irresistible. Discover more about French Bulldogs at AKC’s French Bulldog Breed Biography.

Chinese Shar-Pei

• This fascinating but challenging breed of ancient pedigree is steadfastly loyal to family but standoffish with strangers. The Chinese Shar-Pei has physical characteristics that make him a one-of-a-kind companion and guardian dog. Discover more about Chinese Shar-Peis at AKC’s Chinese Shar-Pei Breed Biography.

Poodle

• Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

American Eskimo Dog

• The American Eskimo Dog combines striking good looks with a quick and clever mind in a total brains-and-beauty package. Neither shy nor aggressive, Eskies are always alert and friendly, though a bit conservative when making new friends. Distinctive traits include a dense, sparkling white coat with a lion-like ruff around the chest and shoulders; a smiling face, with black nose, lips, and eye-rims that convey a keen, intelligent expression; and a plumed tail carried over the back. They move with a bold and agile gait. Eskies are social animals and can develop problem behaviors when neglected or undertrained. Among the most trainable of breeds, the clever, kid-friendly Eskie practically invented the phrase “eager to please.” Discover more about American Eskimo Dogs at AKC’s American Eskimo Dog Breed Biography.

Bichon Frise

• The small but sturdy and resilient Bichon Frise stands among the world's great “personality dogs.” The breed’s glory is a white hypoallergenic coat, plush and velvety to the touch, featuring rounded head hair that sets off the large, dark eyes and black leathers of the nose and lips. Alert and curious, Bichons make nice little watchdogs but they are lovers, not fighters, and operate under the assumption that there are no strangers, just friends they haven’t met yet. Bichons train nicely and enjoy performing for their loved ones. Discover more about Bichon Frises at AKC’s Bichon Frise Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• The AKC non-sporting group is defined not by what it is, but by what it is not.
• Want to know how Boston Terriers became the official dog of Massachusetts?
• The Chinese Shar-Pei was brought back from the brink of extinction by a Life magazine cover.

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In this episode, we explore beloved canine breeds whose modern names may have gotten a little bit lost in translation over time. Just as humans have migrated all over the earth, so have their loyal, hardworking companions. War, wealth, and trade have all distributed dogs over diverse geographic areas (or in some cases, jobs) that may or may not match up with their monikers. Only true dog enthusiasts could win trivia night at the local tavern if the topic were the origins of dog breed names (you can thank us later).

Bonafide Bits:

• Great Danes are originally from Germany.
• Australian Shepherds are more at home in the American West than in Sydney.
• Newfoundlands and Labrador Retrievers—both from Newfoundland—share a common lineage.
• The first Italian Greyhounds are believed to be from Greece.
• Ancestors of Japanese Chins are from China.

Featured Breeds:

Great Dane

• This breed is indeed great, but not a Dane. As tall as 32 inches at the shoulder, Danes tower over most other dogs, and when standing on their hind legs, they are taller than most people. These powerful giants are the picture of elegance and balance, with the smooth and easy stride of born noblemen. The coat comes in different colors and patterns, perhaps the best-known being the black-and-white patchwork pattern known as “harlequin.” Despite their sweet nature, Danes are alert home guardians. Patient with kids, Danes are people pleasers who make friends easily. Discover more about Great Danes at AKC’s Great Dane Breed Biography.

Old English Sheepdog

• The Old English Sheepdog is the archetypical shaggy dog, famous for his profuse coat and peek-a-boo hairdo, a distinctive bear-like gait, and a mellow, agreeable nature. The OES is a big, agile dog who enjoys exploring and a good romp. Beneath the Old English Sheepdog’s profuse double coat is a muscular and compact drover, with plenty of bone and a big rump, standing 21 or 22 inches at the shoulder. Their eyes (when you can see them) are dark brown, or blue, or one of each. Regular exercise is required for these strong, able-bodied workers. Equally famed are their many fine housedog qualities: watchfulness, courage, kindliness, and intelligence. Great with children, they make patient, protective playmates. They are sensible watchdogs known for a loud, ringing bark. Discover more about Old English Sheepdogs at AKC’s Old English Sheepdog Breed Biography.

Australian Shepherd

• The Australian Shepherd, a lean, tough ranch dog, is one of those “only in America” stories: a European breed perfected in California by way of Australia. The Australian Shepherd, the cowboy’s herding dog of choice, is a medium-sized worker with a keen, penetrating gaze in the eye. Aussie coats offer different looks, including merle (a mottled pattern with contrasting shades of blue or red). Aussies exhibit an irresistible impulse to herd, anything: birds, dogs, kids. This strong work drive can make Aussies too much dog for a sedentary pet owner. Aussies are remarkably intelligent and quite capable of hoodwinking an unsuspecting novice owner. Discover more about Australian Shepherds at AKC’s Australian Shepherd Breed Biography.

Norwegian Elkhound

• The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust spitz type known for his lush silver-gray coat and dignified but friendly demeanor. The durable Elkhound is among Europe's oldest dogs. They sailed with the Vikings and figured in Norse art and legend. Norwegian Elkhounds are hardy, short-bodied dogs standing about 20 inches at the shoulder. They have a dense silver-gray coat and a tail curling tightly over the back. The deep chest, sturdy legs, and muscular thighs belong to a dog built for an honest day’s work. Reserved until introductions are made, an Elkhound is a trustworthy friend ever after. These strong, confident dogs are truly sensitive souls, with a dash of houndy independence. Discover more about Norwegian Elkhound at AKC’s Norwegian Elkhound Breed Biography.

Newfoundland

• The massive Newfoundland is a strikingly large, powerful working dog of heavy bone and dignified bearing. The sweet-tempered Newfie is a famously good companion and has earned a reputation as a patient and watchful “nanny dog” for kids. Discover more about Newfoundlands at AKC’s Newfoundland Breed Biography.

Saint Bernard

• The Saint Bernard does not rank very high in AKC registrations, but the genial giant of the Swiss Alps is nonetheless among the world’s most famous and beloved breeds. Saints are famously watchful, patient, and careful with children. Discover more about Saint Bernards at AKC’s Saint Bernard Breed Biography.

Greyhound

• Greyhounds are the essence of the dog breeder’s credo “Form follows function.” From the narrow, aerodynamic skull to the shock-absorbing pads of the feet, Greyhounds are perfectly constructed for high-speed pursuit. The lean beauty of the Greyhound “inverted S” shape, created by the deep chest curving gently into a tightly tucked waist, has been an object of fascination for artists, poets, and kings for as long as human beings have called themselves civilized. Discover more about Greyhounds at AKC’s Greyhound Breed Biography.

Italian Greyhound

• A true Greyhound in miniature, the elegant Italian Greyhound is an alert, playful, and highly affectionate toy companion. IGs make decorative couch dogs, but at heart, they are flash-and-dash coursing hounds with an instinct for pursuit. Discover more about Italian Greyhounds at AKC’s Italian Greyhound Breed Biography.

Black Russian Terrier

• The Black Russian Terrier is a large, immensely powerful worker of heavy bone and coarse all-black coat. BRTs are known for their courage, confidence, and intelligence. Bred to guard and protect, they are naturally aloof with strangers. This brawny guard dog of the Siberian steppes can tip the scales at 140 pounds and stand as high as 30 inches at the shoulder. The tousled, all-black coat is warm enough to allow BRTs to patrol some of the coldest habitable places on Earth. Discover more about Black Russian Terriers at AKC’s Black Russian Terriers Breed Biography.

Siberian Husky

• The graceful, medium-sized Siberian Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each, and convey a keen but amiable, and even mischievous expression. Quick and nimble-footed, Siberians are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibes’ innate friendliness renders them indifferent watchdogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure room to run is a must. An attractive feature of the breed: Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies at AKC’s Siberian Husky Breed Biography.

Japanese Chin

• Chin are the unrivaled noblemen of Japanese breeds. The head is large, the muzzle short, and the round, dark eyes convey, as Chin fans like to say, a “look of astonishment.” The profuse mane around the neck and shoulders, the plumed tail arching over the back, and the pants or “culottes” on the hind legs project the elegant, exotic appearance so typical of Asia’s royal line of laptop cuddle bugs. Discover more about Japanese Chins at AKC’s Japanese Chin Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Newfoundlands are born swimmers. Their partially webbed feet aid them in life-saving water rescues.
• The Black Russian Terrier is also known as the “Black Pearl” of Russia.
• Old English Sheepdogs were owned, bred, and exhibited by some of America's wealthiest families.

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In this episode, we explore dogs with divine connections and how, for thousands of years, many disparate cultures, in different places and different eras, all chose to infuse canines into their spiritual lives and folklore.

Wherever there have been humans, there have been dogs. Not just in the places we occupy, but in our traditions, folklore, and faith stories. Dogs, who want nothing more than to live with us, share our food, protect us, and help us hunt sometimes seem like they’re too good to not be a bit of a miracle.

Bonafide Bits:

• In Ojibwe folklore, a giant’s dog bested a Wendigo to assist humans.
• In ancient Greece, the Goddess Hecate is often depicted accompanied by an enormous Molossian-type hound.
• In ancient Egypt, the part-canine God Anubis is said to have been inspired by a Basenji.
• In France, Saint Guinefort, a Greyhound, was legendary for his healing powers.
• In Tibetan folklore, the country’s protector is the mythical Snow Lion, and the Lhasa Apso is its earthly incarnation.

Featured Breeds:

Xoloitzcuintli

• The 3,000-year-old Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee”), the ancient Aztec dog of the gods, is today a loving companion and vigilant watchdog. The alert and loyal Xolo comes in three sizes, and either hairless or coated varieties. Discover more about Xoloitzcuintlis at AKC’s Xoloitzcuintli Breed Biography.

Lhasa Apso

• The lavishly coated Lhasa Apso is a thousand-year-old breed that served as sentinels at palaces and monasteries isolated high in the Himalayas. Smart, confident, and complex, Lhasas are family comedians but regally aloof with strangers. Discover more about Lhasa Apsos at AKC’s Lhasa Apso Breed Biography.

Greyhound

• Greyhounds are the essence of the dog breeder’s credo “Form follows function.” From the narrow, aerodynamic skull to the shock-absorbing pads of the feet, Greyhounds are perfectly constructed for high-speed pursuit. The lean beauty of the Greyhound’s “inverted S” shape, created by the deep chest curving gently into a tightly tucked waist, has been an object of fascination for artists, poets, and kings for as long as human beings have called themselves civilized. Greyhounds are the template from which other coursing hounds have been struck. Discover more about Greyhounds at AKC’s Greyhound Breed Biography.

Chihuahua

• The Chihuahua is a balanced, graceful dog of terrier-like demeanor, weighing no more than six pounds. The rounded “apple” head is a breed hallmark. The erect ears and full, luminous eyes are acutely expressive. Coats come in many colors and patterns and can be long or short. The varieties are identical except for the coat. Chihuahuas possess loyalty, charm, and a big-dog attitude. Even tiny dogs require training, and without it, this clever scamp will rule your household like a little Napoleon. Compact and confident, Chihuahuas are ideal city pets. They are too small for roughhousing with kids, and special care must be taken in cold weather, but Chihuahuas are adaptable as long as they get lots of quality time in their preferred lap. Discover more about Chihuahuas at AKC’s Chihuahua Breed Biography.

Saint Bernard

• The Saint Bernard does not rank very high in AKC registrations, but the genial giant of the Swiss Alps is nonetheless among the world’s most famous and beloved breeds. Saints are famously watchful, patient, and careful with children. Discover more about Saint Bernards at AKC’s Saint Bernard Breed Biography.

Basenji

• The Basenji, Africa's “Barkless Dog,” is a compact, sweet-faced hunter of intelligence and poise. They are unique and beguiling pets, best for owners who can meet their exercise needs and the challenge of training this catlike canine. They are recognizable by their glistening short coat, tightly curled tail, wrinkled forehead, and expressive almond-shaped eyes that convey a variety of subtle, humanlike emotions. Basenjis are a lovely sight at a standstill but more impressive yet at a fast trot when they exhibit the long, smooth strides of a mini-racehorse. And yes, it’s true, they don't bark, but they make their feelings known with an odd sound described as something between a chortle and a yodel. This has been called a cult breed, small in numbers, but those lucky enough to own one do so with singular devotion. Discover more about Basenjis at AKC’s Basenji Breed Biography.

Pharaoh Hound

• Pharaohs are sleek, aerodynamic coursing hounds bred for high-speed pursuit on rocky terrain. Among their several distinguishing traits are a tight tan coat with matching leather on the nose, ears, and eye rims; ravishing amber eyes; a white-tipped tail; the ability to smile; and a unique way of blushing when happy or excited (“His face glows like a god,” wrote an admirer some 3,000 years ago). These elegant visitors from antiquity possess the speed and graceful movement of all coursers descended from Bronze Age hounds. Discover more about Pharaoh Hounds at AKC’s Pharaoh Hound Breed Biography.

Ibizan Hound

• The Ibizan Hound is a lithe and leggy visitor from the dawn of civilization, bred as a rabbit courser on the rocky shores of Spain’s Balearic Islands. Art history students will recognize the elongated head, with its large erect ears, as a familiar motif of ancient Egypt. The elegant, racy body stands 22.5 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder, with coat colors of solid red or white, or red and white patterns. The rosy-colored leathers of the nose, eye rims, and lips, along with amber or caramel eyes, perfectly complement the coat. The breed’s quiet grace is often described as deer-like. Discover more about Ibizan Hounds at AKC’s Ibizan Hound Breed Biography.

Pekingese

• Pekingese are compact, stocky toy dogs weighing up to 14 pounds. The coat is longest at the neck and shoulders, giving Pekes their famous “lion’s mane.” Coats come in various reds, from golden red to darker shades. The large, short-muzzled head is a wider-than-long, envelope-shaped rectangle, and the eyes are large, dark, and sparkly. A unique feature of Pekes is their effortless “rolling” gait. Pekes are charming, confident companions who develop a tight bond with their favorite human. Ever alert, they make good watchdogs. Pekes will tolerate kids but won’t stand for a lot of roughhousing. Discover more about Pekingese at AKC’s Pekingese Breed Biography.

Canaan Dog

• One of the AKC's oldest breeds, the Canaan Dog is the national dog of Israel. This quick, medium-sized pasture dog is docile with family and aloof with strangers. The ever-alert Canaan is a vocal and persistent guardian of flock and home. Canaan Dogs are lean, bushy-tailed dogs standing 19 to 24 inches at the shoulder. The coat is straight and harsh and comes in various colors and patterns. Erect, expressive ears and dark almond eyes convey an inquisitive expression. Canaans move at a brisk, natural trot. They are rugged, agile, and apparently tireless, making them a nice fit for hikers and runners. Canaans are clever, confident, and territorial. Agility, obedience, herding trials, and sentry duty are a few outlets for their work ethic. Discover more about Canaan Dogs at AKC’s Canaan Dog Breed Biography.

Tibetan Mastiff

• Coming face to face with this ancient behemoth, an intruder up to no good, will likely move on to easier pickings. Tibetan Mastiffs can stand 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh well over 100 pounds. It’s impossible to discuss this breed without leaning on words like “powerful,” “muscular,” “massive,” and “substantial.” And yet, TMs are quite light-footed and will meet a perceived threat with surprising agility. The broad head, with its high-set, V-shaped ears, and expressive brown eyes, projects a noble, sagacious expression. Discover more about Tibetan Mastiffs at AKC’s Tibetan Mastiff Breed Biography.

Tibetan Spaniel

• A reverence for animals occupies a special place in Eastern belief and legend. In that spirit, Buddhist monks played a lead role in fostering and preserving Tibet’s native dog breeds. Tibbies were farseeing sentinels who sat atop the monastery walls and scanned the horizon for friend or foe. And they no doubt made agreeable bed warmers on those subzero Himalayan nights. Discover more about Tibetan Spaniels at AKC’s Tibetan Spaniel Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• In the late 1940s, Lhasa Apsos were bred and given as gifts by the 14th Dalai Lama, which helped to establish the breed in the United States.
• The art of Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera and the efforts of British Diplomat Norman Pelham Wright helped revive Xoloitzcuintli populations after the Spanish conquest of Mexico.
• A St. Bernards’ tremendous sense of smell helped them rescue some two thousand men, women, and children buried deep in the snow.

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In this episode, we explore how the prosperous post-war era shaped the role of dogs in America, and how those dogs have shaped us since.

Dogs have always been a part of the American story, but during the post-war boom, the new idealized self-portrait of the rising middle class included the family dog.

Some breeds saved from extinction by American breeders rallied to become cultural icons, TV heroes, and Best in Show winners, while a comic rendering of the most popular breed of the time fascinated the nation by imagining the war through a dog’s eyes. Join us as we take a walk through our shared history and our shared boom era.

Bonafide Bits:

• With his first win In 1951, Bang Away the Boxer was the first dog to top 100 Best-in-Show titles.
• At the onset of the 1950s, Charles M. Schulz introduced the world to the beloved beagle Snoopy, and shortly after “Beagle-mania” ensued.
• Westminster’s stately Best in Show winner in 1952‒’53, Storm, a Doberman Pinscher, stood motionless for a full thirteen minutes.
• In 1955, bulldog Kippax Fearnought, aka Jock, was the first dog show champion to grace the cover of Sports Illustrated.
• In 2010, Christie's auctioned off the mounted remains of Bullet, the wonder-dog star of the Roy Rogers show.

Featured Breeds:

Cocker Spaniel

• The merry and frolicsome Cocker Spaniel, with his big, dreamy eyes and impish personality, is one of the world’s best-loved breeds. They were developed as hunting dogs, but Cockers gained wide popularity as all-around companions. Discover more about Cocker Spaniels at AKC’s Cocker Spaniel Breed Biography.

Beagle

• Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion, but it is also happy-go-lucky, funny, and — thanks to its pleading expression — cute. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy company and are generally easygoing. Discover more about Beagles at AKC’s Beagle Breed Biography.

Wire Fox Terrier

• The Wire Fox Terrier, 16 to 18 pounds of coiled energy, is a sturdy, symmetrical, short-backed hunter with fire and intelligence shining in its dark, round eyes. The predominantly white coat is rough and wiry; the V-shaped ears are neatly folded forward, the better to point up the face’s distinctive, and completely irresistible, expression. Wires are delightful pets for families looking for an upbeat, friendly companion with loads of personality. They are smart and companionable; training can be a challenge but by no means impossible. Excellent athletes, natural comedians, and charming housemates, Wires are long-lived and low-shedding. Discover more about Wire Fox Terriers at AKC’s Wire Fox Terrier Breed Biography.

Border Collie

• A remarkably bright workaholic, the Border Collie is an amazing dog — maybe a bit too amazing for owners without the time, energy, or means to keep it occupied. These energetic dogs will settle down for cuddle time when the workday is done. Discover more about Border Collies at AKC’s Border Collie Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

• There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Saint Bernard

• The Saint Bernard does not rank very high in AKC registrations, but the genial giant of the Swiss Alps is nonetheless among the world’s most famous and beloved breeds. Saints are famously watchful, patient, and careful with children. Discover more about Saint Bernards at AKC’s Saint Bernard Breed Biography.

Poodle

• Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Boxer

• Loyalty, affection, intelligence, work ethic, and good looks: Boxers are the whole doggy package. Bright and alert, sometimes silly, but always courageous, the Boxer has been among America’s most popular dog breeds for a very long time. Discover more about Boxers at AKC’s Boxer Breed Biography.

Doberman Pinscher

• Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind’s noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world’s finest protection dogs. Discover more about Doberman Pinschers at AKC’s Doberman Pinscher Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• In the 1950s, the AKC granted Snoopy an honorary registration of “Beagle 1.”
• Post WWII, the National Geographic Society suggested the U.S. government conduct a dog census.
• Why did the registration of purebred dogs double from 1946 to 1958?

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In this episode, we explore the breeds that have made the difference between life and death in some of the planet’s harshest conditions, the spitz-type dog breeds of the north.

Northern breeds provide one of this planet’s great survival stories. For tens of thousands of years, these dog breeds outlasted the worst cold, snow, and ice our planet can impose. And, with their human partners, they’ve survived disease and deterioration. It was tangible needs that brought humans and spitz dogs together, but it’s the intangibles that have bound us since. Join us as we get all mushy (see what we did there?) and tell the inspiring tale of an indispensable partnership.

Bonafide Bits:

• Many spitz-type dog breeds use their curved tail to retain a blanket of heat around their face while they sleep.
• It is theorized that humans and dogs migrated to North America together.
• A Yakutian Laika was the first living creature to travel in space.
• In 1909, Robert Peary reached the North Pole with the aid of 40 dogs pulling sleds.
• In 1925, during the Serum Run, Togo, a Siberian Husky, led his team 261 miles carrying a diphtheria antitoxin.

Featured Breeds:

Siberian Husky

• The graceful, medium-sized Siberian Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each, and convey a keen but amiable, and even mischievous expression. Quick and nimble-footed, Siberians are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait. Tipping the scales at no more than 60 pounds, they are noticeably smaller and lighter than their burly cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibes’ innate friendliness renders them indifferent watchdogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure room to run is a must. An attractive feature of the breed: Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies at AKC’s Siberian Husky Breed Biography.

Alaskan Malamute

• A powerful, hard-working spitz type, the Alaskan Malamute is known for being affectionate, loyal, and playful. One of the oldest sled dog breeds, the Mal has strength and stamina, which allows them to slowly haul heavy loads over long distances. Loving family dogs, Mals are also independent and energetic. Discover more about Alaskan Malamutes at AKC’s Alaskan Malamute Breed Biography.

Samoyed

• The Samoyed is a substantial but graceful dog standing anywhere from 19 to a bit over 23 inches at the shoulder. Powerful, tireless, with a thick all-white coat impervious to cold—Sammies are perfectly beautiful but highly functional. Even their most delightful feature, a perpetual smile, has a practical function: The upturned corners of the mouth keep Sammies from drooling, preventing icicles from forming on the face. Discover more about Samoyeds at AKC’s Samoyed Breed Biography.

Chinook

• Chinooks were conceived as dual-purpose haulers, with the power of freighting dogs and the speed of sled racers. They are the picture of stouthearted dignity, with a kindly twinkle in their dark, almond eyes. Chinooks are calm, people-oriented dogs with a special feel for children. They are trainable workers who aim to please. Sledding, carting, obedience, agility, search-and-rescue work, and herding are a few pursuits they've mastered. Chinooks are not particularly busy dogs, but they need consistent exercise to stay in proper hard condition. Discover more about Chinooks at AKC’s Chinook Breed Biography.

Chow Chow

• The Chow Chow is instantly recognizable because of their lion’s mane ruff, blue-black tongue, and powerful but compact physique. The breed is known for being attentive to cleanliness, calm, and loyal, but often also aloof, stubborn, and serious. With that thick coat, the Chow Chow does not tolerate high heat well. Discover more about Chow Chows at AKC’s Chow Chow Breed Biography.

Pomeranian

• The fluffy Pomeranian is one of the world’s most popular toy breeds—and for good reason! These dogs may weigh less than seven pounds, but they have a commanding presence and a big personality. Unlike many spitz dogs, the Pom has always been a companion breed and royals and notable historical figures, including Marie Antoinette and Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart, were enthusiasts. Discover more about Pomeranians at AKC’s Pomeranian Breed Biography.

Basenji

• The Basenji, Africa's “Barkless Dog,” is a compact, sweet-faced hunter of intelligence and poise. They are unique and beguiling pets, best for owners who can meet their exercise needs and the challenge of training this catlike canine. Basenjis are small, graceful hounds standing 16 or 17 inches at the shoulder. They are recognizable by their glistening short coat, tightly curled tail, wrinkled forehead, and expressive almond-shaped eyes that convey a variety of subtle, humanlike emotions. Basenjis are a lovely sight at a standstill but more impressive yet at a fast trot when they exhibit the long, smooth strides of a mini-racehorse. Discover more about Basenjis at AKC’s Basenji Breed Biography.

Yakutian Laika

• Yakutian Laikas are used for herding, pulling sleds, and hunting. They were developed in ancient times for natives of Yakutia as indispensable assistants. This versatile dog will be happy by your side or participating in agility, coursing ability, herding, or sledding. The breed is extremely gentle and considerate with children to whom it commonly establishes especially tight bonds. Discover more about Yakutian Laikas at AKC’s Yakutian Laika Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• The earliest known evidence of people putting dogs to work can be found on Russia’s Zhokhov Island.
• During the Great Serum Run of 1925, Togo was crucial in delivering the diphtheria antitoxin to Nome.
• A dog’s inclination towards peace rather than conflict distinguishes them from their wolf relatives.

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In this episode, we explore the stories behind some of the expressions we use in everyday conversation that were inspired by our relationship with dogs.

Dogs have been companions to humans across all cultures and on every corner of the globe. So, it is no surprise that language is rich with dog-related idioms, metaphors, and rhetorical devices. Join us as we sniff out the intriguing history of canine expressions with dogged determination.

Bonafide Bits:

• In 1896, the first “double dog dare” was laid down in the book, The Child and Childhood, by Alexander Francis Chamberlain.
• In 1793, poet Samuel Johnson used “Black Dog” as a metaphor for clinical depression, or melancholia.
• A “Three-Dog Night” is a 1970s American rock band AND a way to keep warm in the extreme cold.

Featured Breeds:

Old English Sheepdog

• The Old English Sheepdog is the archetypical shaggy dog, famous for his profuse coat and peek-a-boo hairdo, a distinctive bear-like gait, and a mellow, agreeable nature. The OES is a big, agile dog who enjoys exploring and a good romp. Beneath the Old English Sheepdog's profuse double coat is a muscular and compact drover, with plenty of bone and a big rump, standing 21 or 22 inches at the shoulder. Their eyes (when you can see them) are dark brown, or blue, or one of each. Regular exercise is required for these strong, able-bodied workers. Equally famed are their many fine housedog qualities: watchfulness, courage, kindliness, and intelligence. Great with children, they make patient, protective playmates. They are sensible watchdogs known for a loud, ringing bark. Discover more about Old English Sheepdogs at AKC’s Old English Sheepdog Breed Biography.

Black and Tan Coonhound

• Large, athletic hunters who work nights, Black and Tan Coonhounds are friendly, easygoing hounds who love company. They are snoozy by the fireside but tenacious when on the trail of the wily raccoon. The Black and Tan Coonhound is a real American original.
• Black and Tans have an amazingly sensitive nose, long, velvety ears, and a sweet disposition. The coal-black coat features rich tan accents, including the distinctive “pumpkin seeds” above keenly expressive eyes. These are big, strong hounds: A good-sized male can stand 27 inches at the shoulder and cover ground with effortless, eager strides. Black and Tan Coonhounds are sociable hounds. Discover more about Black and Tan Coonhounds at AKC’s Black and Tan Coonhound Breed Biography.

English Foxhound

• The English Foxhound is a substantial galloping hound of great stamina. His long legs are straight as a gatepost, and just as sturdy. The back is perfectly level. And the chest is very deep, “girthing” as much as 31 inches on a hound measuring 24 inches at the shoulder, ensuring plenty of lung power for a grueling day's hunt. These pack-oriented, scent-driven hounds are gentle and sociable but rarely seen as house pets. They can be so driven by a primal instinct for pursuit that not much else, including training, matters to them. Owning these noble creatures is best left to huntsmen who kennel packs of hounds or to those experienced in meeting the special challenges of life with swift, powerful hounds hardwired for the chase. The English Foxhound is the epitome of what serious dog breeders strive for beauty, balance, and utility. Discover more about English Foxhounds at AKC’s English Foxhound Breed Biography.

American Foxhound

• American Foxhounds are good-natured, low-maintenance hounds who get on well with kids, dogs, and even cats, but come with special considerations for prospective owners. They are closely associated with Revolutionary heroes and the rolling estates of old Virginia. Discover more about American Foxhounds at AKC’s American Foxhound Breed Biography.

Mastiff

• For the uninitiated, a face-to-face encounter with these black-masked giants can be startling. A male stands at least 30 inches at the shoulder and can outweigh many a full-grown man. The rectangular body is deep and thickly muscled, covered by a short double coat of fawn, apricot, or brindle stripes. The head is broad and massive, and a wrinkled forehead accentuates an alert, kindly expression. Mastiffs are patient, lovable companions and guardians who take best to gentle training. Eternally loyal Mastiffs are protective of family, and a natural wariness of strangers makes early training and socialization essential. Mastiffs are magnificent pets, but acquiring a powerful giant-breed dog is a commitment not to be taken lightly. Discover more about Mastiffs at AKC’s Mastiff Breed Biography.

Greyhound

• Greyhounds are the essence of the dog breeder’s credo “Form follows function.” From the narrow, aerodynamic skull to the shock-absorbing pads of the feet, Greyhounds are perfectly constructed for high-speed pursuit. The lean beauty of the Greyhound’s “inverted S” shape, created by the deep chest curving gently into a tightly tucked waist, has been an object of fascination for artists, poets, and kings for as long as human beings have called themselves civilized. Greyhounds are the template from which other coursing hounds have been struck. Discover more about Greyhounds at AKC’s Greyhound Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• A “three-dog night” probably happens in Spain, but it’s an old Australian term.
• Since the 1940s, “shaggy dog” stories have been perplexing listeners with their rambling narratives.
• Laying down a “double-dog dare” is meant to raise the stakes of a challenge in a humorous way.

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In this episode, we introduce you to the wicked smart, Swiss Army Knife of breeds, the beloved Poodle.

Over the centuries, Poodles were bred as hunting companions but their versatility and intelligence led them to starring roles such as fashion plates, status symbols, comedians, rescue heroes, and crimefighters. Though often underestimated, underrated, and misunderstood, Poodles make excellent guide dogs, service dogs, and therapy dogs. Join us as we plunge into the history of these excellent swimmers and treasured family members.

Bonafide Bits:

• In the 19th century, the French fell in love with the Poodle making it a cultural icon and the national dog of France.
• French legend has it that a black Poodle named “Moustache” earned a grenadier’s per diem and received a hero’s burial after faithfully serving his country.
• In 1875, the Poodle first appeared in the Kennel Club’s stud book.
• In 1935, Duke, a white Standard Poodle, was the first Poodle to win Best in Show at Westminster.
• Elvis Presley gave Poodles as gifts to girlfriends.

Featured Breeds:

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Poodle (Standard)

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as frou-frou dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Poodle (Miniature & Toys)

Poodles come in three size varieties: Standards should be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniatures are 15 inches or under; Toys stand no more than 10 inches. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. At dog shows, Poodles are usually seen in the elaborate Continental Clip. Most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting Clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body.

Discover more about Miniature Poodles at AKC’s Miniature Poodle Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• The traditional Poodle cut is more function than fashion.
• Poodles have been featured in artworks dating back to the 14th century.
• Poodle coats can also be corded and encouraged to grow into locks up to 20 inches long.

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In this episode, we explore the indispensable Sighthounds. The sleek, swift, and beloved desert hunters and guardians of antiquity.

The story of Sighthounds is the story of the oldest known domesticated dogs. Many of the breeds cherished today pre-date recorded history. Their loyalty, speed, and ability to spot and catch prey over long distances in the cruelest of conditions made them essential assets to pharaohs, kings, and nomads alike. Sighthounds were so revered that statues, murals, and golden relics were created in their honor. As a final testament to their merit, Sighthounds have been discovered, mummified, and laid to rest in family tombs.

Bonafide Bits:

• The Azawakh’s unique lean, durable physique inspired a Formula 1 engineer.
• An ancient leather dog collar was discovered in Tutankhamun’s tomb.
• Pharaoh Hounds are known to blush, and even smile.
• In addition to being the world’s fastest dog, Greyhounds have a 270-degree range of vision.
• Canine champions of AKC’s Fast CAT Invitationals have reached speeds of 35-45 mph.

Featured Breeds:

Azawakh

Tall and elegant, the Azawakh is a West African sighthound that originates from the countries of Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger. The Azawakh has a short, fine coat that may come in any color or color combinations: red, clear sand to fawn, brindled, parti-color (which may be predominantly white), blue, black, and brown. The head may have a black mask and there may be white markings on the legs, bib, and at the tip of the tail. There are no color or marking disqualifications in the breed. Befitting its heritage, the Azawakh excels as a companion, guardian, and lure courser in the United States. Discover more about Azawakhs at AKC’s Azawakh Breed Biography.

Saluki

Among the world’s oldest breeds, the slim but rugged Saluki was the hunting hound of kings for thousands of years. Salukis are swift and agile sprinters who love a good chase. They make gentle, dignified, and independent but loyal pets. Discover more about Salukis at AKC’s Saluki Breed Biography.

Sloughi

The Sloughi (SLOO-ghee) is a classically constructed sighthound of ancient lineage, originally bred to work on such game as hare, fox, jackal, gazelle, and wild pigs on the punishing terrain of its homeland. This is a lean, no-frills hound standing between 24 to 29 inches at the shoulder. Coat colors include shades of light sand to mahogany red-fawn, with or without brindling, with or without black markings, with no invasive white markings. The Sloughi’s big, dark eyes are often described as “melancholy.” Discover more about Sloughis at AKC’s Sloughi Breed Biography.

Pharaoh Hound

Pharaohs are sleek, aerodynamic coursing hounds bred for high-speed pursuit on rocky terrain. Among their several distinguishing traits are a tight tan coat with matching leather on the nose, ears, and eye rims; ravishing amber eyes; a white-tipped tail; the ability to smile; and a unique way of blushing when happy or excited (“His face glows like a god,” wrote an admirer some 3,000 years ago). These elegant visitors from antiquity possess the speed and graceful movement of all coursers descended from Bronze Age hounds. Discover more about Pharaoh Hounds at AKC’s Pharaoh Hound Breed Biography.

Basenji

The Basenji, Africa's “Barkless Dog,” is a compact, sweet-faced hunter of intelligence and poise. They are unique and beguiling pets, best for owners who can meet their exercise needs and the challenge of training this catlike canine. Basenjis are small, graceful hounds standing 16 or 17 inches at the shoulder. They are recognizable by their glistening short coat, tightly curled tail, wrinkled forehead, and expressive almond-shaped eyes that convey a variety of subtle, humanlike emotions. Basenjis are a lovely sight at a standstill but more impressive yet at a fast trot when they exhibit the long, smooth strides of a mini-racehorse. And yes, it’s true, they don't bark, but they make their feelings known with an odd sound described as something between a chortle and a yodel. Basenjis are fastidious and will groom themselves like cats. This has been called a “cult breed,”¿small in numbers, but those lucky enough to own one do so with singular devotion. Discover more about Basenjis at AKC’s Basenji Breed Biography.

Maltese

The tiny Maltese, “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” has been sitting in the lap of luxury since the Bible was a work in progress. Famous for their show-stopping, floor-length coat, Maltese are playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions. Discover more about Malteses at AKC’s Maltese Breed Biography.

Ibizan Hound

The Ibizan Hound is a lithe and leggy visitor from the dawn of civilization, bred as a rabbit courser on the rocky shores of Spain’s Balearic Islands. World-class sprinters and leapers, Ibizans need ample space to air out their engines.

Ibizans are lithe and leggy visitors from the dawn of civilization. Art history students will recognize the elongated head, with its large erect ears, as a familiar motif of ancient Egypt. The elegant, racy body stands 22.5 to 27.5 inches at the shoulder, with coat colors of solid red or white, or red and white patterns. The rosy-colored leathers of the nose, eye rims, and lips, along with amber or caramel eyes, perfectly complement the coat. The breed’s quiet grace is often described as deer-like. Discover more about Ibizan Hounds at AKC’s Ibizan Hound Breed Biography.

Greyhound

Greyhounds are the essence of the dog breeder’s credo “Form follows function.” From the narrow, aerodynamic skull to the shock-absorbing pads of the feet, Greyhounds are perfectly constructed for high-speed pursuit. The lean beauty of the Greyhound’s “inverted S” shape, created by the deep chest curving gently into a tightly tucked waist, has been an object of fascination for artists, poets, and kings for as long as human beings have called themselves civilized. Greyhounds are the template from which other coursing hounds have been struck. Discover more about Greyhounds at AKC’s Greyhound Breed Biography.

Irish Wolfhound

The calm, dignified, and kindly Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all AKC breeds. Once fearless big-game hunters capable of dispatching a wolf in single combat, Wolfhounds today are the most serene and agreeable of companions. Discover more about Irish Wolfhounds at AKC’s Irish Wolfhound Breed Biography.

Whippet

At somewhere between 18 and 22 inches at the shoulder, the Whippet looks like a Greyhound, but smaller. The Whippet exhibits the classic “inverted S” lines of the sighthound. The deep chest and trim waist; a lean head supported by a long, arched neck; and slim but sturdy legs combine in a picture of an agile, fleet-footed athlete. Between bursts of intense pursuit, Whippets love to stretch out and relax for long hours, enjoying the role of a loving, and loved, companion. Whippets like a fenced yard to run in, but they do nicely in cozy apartments too, as long as they are exercised properly. Another plus for city dwellers: Whippets rarely bark. Despite the breed’s elegant looks, the Whippet is a robust, low-maintenance dog. Discover more about Whippets at AKC’s Whippet Breed Biography.

Thai Ridgeback

The Thai Ridgeback is a muscular, medium-sized dog with a streamlined body that makes him very agile and a natural athlete. The ridge on his back is formed by hair growing in the opposite direction from the rest of his coat and the breed has up to 8 different ridge patterns. Puppies can be born without this ridge. Coat colors include solid blue, black, red, or fawn with a black mask occasionally on the red-coated dogs. Thai Ridgebacks also have spotted tongues and some even come with solid black/blue tongues. Today, most Ridgebacks are companion dogs, but they still maintain many of the same instincts for the jobs for which they were bred: hunting and guarding. They had to be independent and self-sufficient and hunt for their own food, which gave them strong survival instincts, a high prey drive, and a high level of intelligence. If well-bred and properly socialized, the Thai Ridgeback can be a loyal, loving pet. As a guarding breed, they are naturally protective of their home and can be reserved and suspicious of strangers. Thai Ridgebacks will need a patient, consistent, and experienced owner with a good understanding of dog behavior; they are not for first-time dog owners. Discover more about Thai Ridgebacks at AKC’s Thai Ridgeback Breed Biography.

Borzoi

Borzoi are large, elegant sighthounds. A mature male stands at least 28 inches at the shoulder and weighs 75 to 105 pounds. Females will be smaller. Beneath the luxurious silky coat, Borzoi construction follows the ancient Greyhound template. Once known as the Russian Wolfhound, Borzoi were bred to be swift and tough enough to pursue and pin their ferocious lupine quarry. In their quiet, catlike way they can be stubborn, and training is best accomplished with patience, consistency, and good humor. Affectionate family dogs, Borzoi are nonetheless a bit too dignified to wholeheartedly enjoy a lot of roughhousing. The sight of a cat or squirrel on the run will quickly stir their instinct to pursue and fenced-in running room is a must. Discover more about Borzois at AKC’s Borzoi Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• The fleet-footed whippet has been dubbed a poor man’s racehorse.
• There’s evidence that the Greeks not only developed collars but created
• spiked collars, to protect the necks of their hounds from a predator’s bite
• Tesem is an ancient Egyptian catch-all term meaning hunting dog.

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In this episode, we explore the weighty subject of humans finding ways to say goodbye to a beloved dog, and the spectrum of ways people deal with the grief of losing a beloved pet.

For ages, proof of the unique bond between humans and dogs has existed in literature, song, and lore. But rarely discussed are the lengths humans will go to pay homage to their dogs after they have passed. Everyone mourns pet loss differently. From the creation of pet cemeteries to bestowing monetary gifts to cover future care, the love we feel for dogs extends beyond this earthly realm.

Bonafide Bits:

• In a 50 square meter plot in Ashkelon, Tel Aviv, some 1,300 dogs were individually buried between the 5th and 3rd centuries.
• The constellation Canis Major was named after Maira, the faithful hound of Ikarios, a winemaker of ancient Greece.
• Ronald Reagan famously dramatized George Graham Vest’s Old Drum closing court argument.
• Famous women who left money to their dogs include Lauren Bacall, Joan Rivers, and Leona Helmsley.

Featured Breeds:

Maltese

The tiny Maltese, “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” has been sitting in the lap of luxury since the Bible was a work in progress. Famous for their show-stopping, floor-length coat, Maltese are playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions. Discover more about Malteses at AKC’s Maltese Breed Biography.

Yorkshire Terrier

Beneath the dainty, glossy, floor-length coat of a Yorkshire Terrier beats the heart of a feisty, old-time terrier. Yorkies earned their living as ratters in mines and mills long before they became the beribboned lapdogs of Victorian ladies. The Yorkshire Terrier is a compact, toy-size terrier of no more than seven pounds whose crowning glory is a floor-length, silky coat of steel blue and a rich golden tan. Don’t let the Yorkie’s daintiness fool you. Tenacious, feisty, brave, and sometimes bossy, the Yorkie exhibits all the traits of a true terrier. Yorkies are long-lived and hypoallergenic (the coat is more like human hair than animal fur), and they make fine little watchdogs. This is a true “personality breed,” providing years of laughs, love, and close companionship. Discover more about Yorkshire Terriers at AKC’s Yorkshire Terrier Breed Biography.

Drever

The Drever is robust rather than elegant and speedy. They have a proud carriage, well-developed muscles, and an agile appearance. Affectionate, playful, and sweet, the Drever gets along well with most other breeds and is great in groups. The Drever was developed in the early twentieth century in Sweden. Hunting deer was difficult due to terrain and herd locations so hunters soon realized the benefits of using this short-legged, long-bodied dog to drive the deer over long distances and rough terrain right to them. A keen and even-tempered hound, the Drever is never aggressive, nervous, nor shy. They are content in most living situations but tend to be vocal when alerting or at play. Discover more about Drevers at AKC’s Drever Breed Biography.

Pumi

The Pumi (POO-mee; plural Pumik) was conceived as a compact, quick, and fearless sheepherder capable of moving flocks on the narrow roads connecting the pastures of western Hungary. At a glance, it might be hard to believe that this cuddly charmer was born to do such tough work. With his coat of corkscrew curls, circular tail, expressive ears, and distinctively whimsical look, the Pumi is all kinds of cute. But beneath the curls is a lean, deep-chested herder with a seemingly endless capacity for work and play. Discover more about Pumik at AKC’s Pumi Breed Biography.

Löwchen

A companion dog whose name is German for “little lion,” the Löwchen has been a popular pet among Continental Europeans for more than 500 years. The portable, non-shedding Löwchen is said to be affectionate, lively, and brave as a lion. Small dogs with enormous hearts, Löwchen (the same singular or plural) stand a bit over a foot tall at the shoulder. The coat is traditionally kept in a “lion clip,” in which most of the hindquarters and tail are clipped down close to the skin. The overall effect is that of a mini lion, with a full mane and plumed tail. The coat comes in several colors and color combinations. Beneath the coat is a dog that’s strong and sturdy, but elegant and artfully balanced. Discover more about Löwchen at AKC’s Löwchen Breed Biography.

Boerboel

Boerboels are intimidating but discerning guardians of home and family who learned their trade while protecting remote South African homesteads from ferocious predators. They are dominant and confident, also bright and eager to learn. There’s a no-frills, no-nonsense quality to this sleek-coated avenger, which might stand as high as 27 inches at the shoulder and weigh as much as you do. A broad and blocky head, powerful jaws, and thick muscles from neck to rump mark it as a descendant of the ancient “molloser” dog family, the foundation of today's mastiff-type breeds. In motion, the Boerboel just might be the most agile of all mastiff types. The imposing Boerboel is devoted to protecting the people and places he loves. This is a trainable, versatile breed, eager to spend time with their adored humans. Discover more about Boerboels at AKC’s Boerboel Breed Biography.

Canaan Dog

One of the AKC's oldest breeds, the Canaan Dog is the national dog of Israel. This quick, medium-sized pasture dog is docile with family and aloof with strangers. The ever-alert Canaan is a vocal and persistent guardian of flock and home. Canaan Dogs are lean, bushy-tailed dogs standing 19 to 24 inches at the shoulder. The coat is straight and harsh and comes in various colors and patterns. Erect, expressive ears and dark almond eyes convey an inquisitive expression. Canaans move at a brisk, natural trot. They are rugged, agile, and apparently tireless, making them a nice fit for hikers and runners. Canaans are clever, confident, and territorial. They will end up "owning" passive owners who haven't established themselves as the top dog in the family pack. Agility, obedience, herding trials, and sentry duty are a few outlets for their work ethic. Discover more about Canaan Dogs at AKC’s Canaan Dog Breed Biography.

Cane Corso

Smart, trainable, and of noble bearing, the assertive and confident Cane Corso is a peerless protector. The Corso’s lineage goes back to ancient Roman times, and the breed’s name roughly translates from the Latin as “bodyguard-dog.” Discover more about Cane Corsos at AKC’s Cane Corso Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Akita

Akitas are burly, heavy-boned spitz-type dogs of imposing stature. Standing 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder, Akitas have a dense coat that comes in several colors, including white. The head is broad and massive and is balanced in the rear by a full, curled-over tail. The erect ears and dark, shining eyes contribute to an expression of alertness, a hallmark of the breed. Akitas are quiet, fastidious dogs. Wary of strangers and often intolerant of other animals, Akitas will gladly share their silly, affectionate side with family and friends. They thrive on human companionship. The large, independent-thinking Akita is hardwired for protecting those they love. They must be well-socialized from birth with people and other dogs. Discover more about Akitas at AKC’s Akita Breed Biography.

Newfoundland

The massive Newfoundland is a strikingly large, powerful working dog of heavy bone and dignified bearing. The sweet-tempered Newfie is a famously good companion and has earned a reputation as a patient and watchful “nanny dog” for kids. Discover more about Newfoundlands at AKC’s Newfoundland Breed Biography.

Black and Tan Coonhound

Large, athletic hunters who work nights, Black and Tan Coonhounds are friendly, easygoing hounds who love company. They are snoozy by the fireside but tenacious when on the trail of the wily raccoon. The Black and Tan Coonhound is a real American original.

Black and Tans have an amazingly sensitive nose, long, velvety ears, and a sweet disposition. The coal-black coat features rich tan accents, including the distinctive “pumpkin seeds” above keenly expressive eyes. These are big, strong hounds: A good-sized male can stand 27 inches at the shoulder and cover ground with effortless, eager strides. Black and Tan Coonhounds are sociable hounds. Discover more about Black and Tan Coonhounds at AKC’s Black and Tan Coonhound Breed Biography.

Papillon

The quick, curious Papillon is a toy dog of singular beauty and upbeat athleticism. Despite his refined appearance, the Pap is truly a “doggy dog” blessed with a hardy constitution. Papillon fanciers describe their breed as happy, alert, and friendly. A tiny dog, measuring 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder, you can still spot a Papillon a block away thanks to the large, wing-shaped ears that give the breed its name (“papillon” is French for “butterfly”). Some Paps have erect ears; in others, known as the Phalene type, the ears are down. Paps are dainty and elegant, with a plumed tail, and a long, silky coat of several color combinations, the base color being white. More robust than they look, Paps are little dogs for all seasons and reasons. They thrive in warm or cool climates, in town or country, and are eager to join the family fun. They are excellent agility dogs and are consistent winners at the sport’s highest levels; less ambitious owners can train them to do all kinds of tricks. Discover more about Papillons at AKC’s Papillon Breed Biography.

Havanese

Havanese, the only dog breed native to Cuba, are cheerful little dogs with a spring in their step and a gleam in their big, brown eyes. These vivacious and sociable companions are becoming especially popular with American city dwellers. Discover more about Havanese at AKC’s Havanese Breed Biography.

Parson Russell Terrier

The Parson Russell Terrier is bold and clever, swift enough to run with horses and fearless enough to dig in and flush a fox from his lair. Independent problem-solvers, PRTs can have their own ideas on how to go about things. Discover more about Parson Russell Terriers at AKC’s Parson Russell Terrier Breed Biography.

Border Collie

A remarkably bright workaholic, the Border Collie is an amazing dog — maybe a bit too amazing for owners without the time, energy, or means to keep it occupied. These energetic dogs will settle down for cuddle time when the workday is done. Discover more about Border Collies at AKC’s Border Collie Breed Biography.

Japanese Chin

Chin are the unrivaled noblemen of Japanese breeds. They’re tiny “indoorsy” companions, with an unmistakably Eastern look and bearing. The head is large, the muzzle short, and the round, dark eyes convey, as Chin fans like to say, a “look of astonishment.” The profuse mane around the neck and shoulders, the plumed tail arching over the back, and the pants or “culottes” on the hind legs project the elegant, exotic appearance so typical of Asia’s royal line of laptop cuddle bugs. Discover more about Japanese Chins at AKC’s Japanese Chin Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Likely the closing argument by George Vest in the legal battle of Burden v. Hornsby solidified the truth that dogs are members of the family.
• Dogs are more than mere property. They’re special. The law says so!
• Strictly speaking, a dog cannot inherit money although a trust can be established to care for it.

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In this episode, we dig deep into the depths of dog lore to separate fact from fiction.

If humans understood all the wags of a dog’s tail there might not be so many misconceptions about what they prefer to eat, whether or not they want that giant hug, or if they really play poker. But, the better we get to know our favorite dogs, the more myths we’re able to bust. More importantly, the better humans understand their dog’s needs, signals, and communication, the stronger the bond between us becomes.

Bonafide Bits

• Great Danes are actually German, not Danish.
• In 2023, Bobi, a Rafeiro do Alentejo in Portugal, was verified to be the world’s oldest dog at 30 years old.
• You really can teach old dogs new tricks, as expertly demonstrated by 95 Border Collies at the Clever Dog Lab in Austria.
• Dogs can see color, but are more likely to see blue and yellow toys than popular red or orange toys.
• Plants in the Allium family, particulary onions, are toxic to all dog breeds but more toxic to Japanese breeds such as Akitas and Shiba Inus.

Featured Breeds:

Bernese Mountain Dog

Big, powerful, and built for hard work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also strikingly beautiful and blessed with a sweet, affectionate nature. Berners are generally placid but are always up for a romp with the owner, whom they live to please. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy worker who can stand over 27 inches at the shoulder. The thick, silky, and moderately long coat is tricolored: jet black, clear white, and rust. The distinctive markings on the coat and face are breed hallmarks and, combined with the intelligent gleam in the dark eyes, add to the Berner's aura of majestic nobility. A hardy dog who thrives in cold weather, the Berner's brain and brawn helped him multitask on the farms and pastures of Switzerland. Berners get along with the entire family and are particularly gentle with children, but they will often become more attached to one lucky human. Berners are imposing but not threatening, and they maintain an aloof dignity with strangers. Discover more about Bernese Mountain Dogs at AKC’s Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Biography.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a balanced, graceful dog of terrier-like demeanor, weighing no more than six pounds. The rounded “apple” head is a breed hallmark. The erect ears and full, luminous eyes are acutely expressive. Coats come in many colors and patterns and can be long or short. The varieties are identical except for the coat. Chihuahuas possess loyalty, charm, and a big-dog attitude. Even tiny dogs require training, and without it, this clever scamp will rule your household like a little Napoleon. Compact and confident, Chihuahuas are ideal city pets. They are too small for roughhousing with kids, and special care must be taken in cold weather, but Chihuahuas are adaptable as long as they get lots of quality time in their preferred lap. Discover more about Chihuahuas at AKC’s Chihuahua Breed Biography.

Chinese Crested

With their spotted pink skin, spiky “crested” hairdo, furry socks, and feathery tail, you can’t mistake the sweet and slender Chinese Crested for any other breed. This frolicsome, ultra-affectionate companion dog is truly a breed apart. The Chinese Crested, a lively and alert toy breed standing between 11 and 13 inches high, can be hairless or coated. The hairless variety has smooth, soft skin and tufts of hair on the head, tail, and ankles. The coated variety, called the “powderpuff,” is covered by a soft, silky coat. Besides the coat, there’s very little difference between the powderpuff and his undressed brother. Both varieties are characterized by fine-boned elegance and graceful movement. Cresteds are as fun as they look: playful, loving, and devoted to their humans. The hairless has its advantages: there is no doggy odor, and for obvious reasons shedding isn’t much of a problem. Both varieties are attentive housemates, totally in tune with their family. Discover more about Chinese Crested at AKC’s Chinese Crested Breed Biography.

Irish Wolfhound

The calm, dignified, and kindly Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all AKC breeds. Once fearless big-game hunters capable of dispatching a wolf in single combat, Wolfhounds today are the most serene and agreeable of companions. Discover more about Irish Wolfhounds at AKC’s Irish Wolfhound Breed Biography.

Great Dane

The easygoing Great Dane, the mighty “Apollo of Dogs,” is a total joy to live with — but owning a dog of such imposing size, weight, and strength is a commitment not to be entered into lightly. This breed is indeed great, but not a Dane. Discover more about Great Danes at AKC’s Great Dane Breed Biography.

Rafeiro do Alentejo

The Rafeiro do Alentejo is an excellent farm and estate watchdog. He is also a very useful livestock protector, being more vigilant at night and very serious when guarding territory or any other property entrusted to him. He has a calm and confident expression. Since the beginning of the breed’s history, Rafeiros Alentejanos were used in packs as hunting dogs for big game, though this function has gradually disappeared over time. More recently, the breed is a guard dog for property and livestock, watching sheep and cattle. They also often work alone in prairies and will defend the herd against any intruders. Hailing from Portugal, the Rafeiro do Alentejo is a large-sized dog, powerful, rustic, sober, and calm. He moves with a heavy, slow roll. His coat is short or medium-length and thick, straight, and dense. They can be black, wolf gray, or fawn, with or without brindling, always with white markings; or white with patches of these colors. Discover more about Rafeiro do Alentejo at AKC’s Rafeiro do Alentejo Breed Biography.

Akita

Akitas are burly, heavy-boned spitz-type dogs of imposing stature. Standing 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder, Akitas have a dense coat that comes in several colors, including white. The head is broad and massive and is balanced in the rear by a full, curled-over tail. The erect ears and dark, shining eyes contribute to an expression of alertness, a hallmark of the breed. Akitas are quiet, fastidious dogs. Wary of strangers and often intolerant of other animals, Akitas will gladly share their silly, affectionate side with family and friends. They thrive on human companionship. The large, independent-thinking Akita is hardwired for protecting those they love. They must be well-socialized from birth with people and other dogs. Discover more about Akitas at AKC’s Akita Breed Biography.

Shiba Inu

An ancient Japanese breed, the Shiba Inu is a little but well-muscled dog once employed as a hunter. Today, the spirited, good-natured Shiba is the most popular companion dog in Japan. The adaptable Shiba is at home in town or country. Brought to America from Japan as recently as 60 years ago, Shibas are growing in popularity in the West and are already the most popular breed in their homeland. Their white markings combined with their coloring (red, red sesame, or black and tan) and their alert expression and smooth stride make them almost foxlike. They’re sturdy, muscular dogs with a bold, confident personality to match. Discover more about Shiba Inus at AKC’s Shiba Inu Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Siberian Husky

The graceful, medium-sized Siberian Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each, and convey a keen but amiable, and even mischievous expression. Quick and nimble-footed, Siberians are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait. Tipping the scales at no more than 60 pounds, they are noticeably smaller and lighter than their burly cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibes’ innate friendliness renders them indifferent watchdogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure room to run is a must. An attractive feature of the breed: Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies at AKC’s Siberian Husky Breed Biography.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

Labrador Retriever

The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. Labs are famously friendly. They are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family, and they socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike. But don’t mistake his easy-going personality for low energy: The Lab is an enthusiastic athlete that requires lots of exercise like swimming and marathon games of fetch, to keep physically and mentally fit. Discover more about Labrador Retrievers at AKC’s Labrador Retriever Breed Biography.

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a sweet-faced, lovable bird dog of great energy, stamina, and brains. Sport hunters cherish the duality of working Springers: handsome, mannerly pets during the week, and trusty hunting buddies on weekends. Discover more about English Springer Spaniels at AKC’s English Springer Spaniel Breed Biography.

Otterhound

Big, boisterous, and affectionate, the Otterhound was bred in medieval England for the now-outlawed activity of otter hunting. This scarce breed is known for its dense shaggy coat, webbed feet, an acute sense of smell, and affinity for swimming. Discover more about Otterhounds at AKC’s Otterhound Breed Biography.

Portuguese Water Dog

The bright and biddable Portuguese Water Dog was bred to be an all-around fisherman’s helper. The robust, medium-sized body is covered by a coat of tight, low-shedding curls. They are eager and athletic companions built for water work. Discover more about Portuguese Water Dogs at AKC’s Portuguese Water Dog Breed Biography.

Chesapeake Bay Retriever

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever, peerless duck dog of the Mid-Atlantic, is an American original who embodies the classic traits of a good retriever: loyal, upbeat, affectionate, and tireless. The Chessie is famous for his waterproof coat. Chessies are strong, powerfully built gundogs standing anywhere from 21 to 26 inches at the shoulder. A male can weigh up to 80 pounds. The distinctive breed trait is a wavy coat that is oily to the touch. Chessies are solid-colored, either chocolatey brown, sedge, or deadgrass, with keen yellow-amber eyes that nicely complement the coat. Chessies are more emotionally complex than the usual gundog. Chessies take to training, but they have a mind of their own and can tenaciously pursue their own path. They are protective of their humans and polite, but not overtly friendly to strangers. Chessies make excellent watchdogs and are versatile athletes. A well-socialized Chessie is a confident companion and world-class hunting buddy. Discover more about Chesapeake Bay Retrievers at AKC’s Chesapeake Bay Retriever Breed Biography.

Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever

The smallest of the AKC’s retrievers, the Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever is intelligent, affectionate, and eager to please. Play fetch with a tireless Toller until your right arm falls off, and he will ask you to throw left-handed. The little gundog with the big name is the smallest AKC retriever, standing ideally 18 or 19 inches at the shoulder. The Toller’s trademark is a coat of stunning crimson, ranging from golden red to a dark coppery color, with white markings. Strong and agile, Tollers are medium dogs: medium in size, bone, and coat length. The almond-shaped eyes project an alert expression. Tollers are upbeat athletes who require outlets for their boundless vigor: hunting, hiking, camping, and, of course, swimming (for which they are ideally suited, down to their webbed feet). Tollers are smart, handsome, affectionate companions, but these red tornadoes can be recommended only to those with enough time and energy to keep them usefully occupied. Discover more about Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever at AKC’s Nova Scotia Duck Tolling Retriever Breed Biography.

Dachshund

The famously long, low silhouette, ever-alert expression, and bold, vivacious personality of the Dachshund have made him a superstar of the canine kingdom. Dachshunds come in two sizes and in three coat types of various colors and patterns. The word “icon” is terribly overworked, but the Dachshund, with his unmistakable long-backed body, little legs, and big personality, is truly an icon of purebred dogdom. Dachshunds can be standard-sized (usually 16 to 32 pounds) or miniature (11 pounds or under), and come in one of three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, or longhaired. Dachshunds aren’t built for distance running, leaping, or strenuous swimming, but otherwise, these tireless hounds are game for anything. Smart and vigilant, with a big-dog bark, they make fine watchdogs. Bred to be an independent hunter of dangerous prey, they can be brave to the point of rashness, and a bit stubborn, but their endearing nature and unique look have won millions of hearts the world over. Discover more about Dachshunds at AKC’s Dachshund Breed Biography.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Among the most agreeable of all small house dogs, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a strong, athletic, and lively little herder who is affectionate and companionable without being needy. They are one of the world’s most popular herding breeds. Discover more about Pembroke Welsh Corgis at AKC’s Pembroke Welsh Corgi Breed Biography.

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound stands no higher than 14 inches at the shoulder but, with his remarkably heavy bone, powerful little legs, and massive paws, he possesses big-dog strength and stamina. Bassets are famous for a large, domed head that features extremely long, velvety ears, mournful eyes, and a wrinkled brow, which give the breed the look of a sad clown. Built more for endurance than speed, the Basset moves in a deliberate but effortless manner. The breed’s scenting ability is uncanny; it’s said that among dogs only the Bloodhound’s nose is more accurate. Mild and agreeable at home, the Basset is stubborn on the trail and barks in a loud, ringing voice. Although they may not be wildly demonstrative in their affections, they are steadfastly loyal. Discover more about Basset Hounds at AKC’s Basset Hound Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables

• Dogs are not color blind, they just see colors differently from humans. Blue and yellow toys stand out more than other colors.
• Used as scent atomizers, the sweat glands on a dog's skin are not used for evaporation or cooling.
• A dog’s wagging tail is an effective communication tool, as long as you don’t come in at the tail end of the conversation.

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In this episode, we scour through the archives for irresistible stories behind breed names.

Breed names are a vital tool for classifying our canine companions, yet it’s the individuals, the Lunas and Maxs, the Rovers, Spots, and Fidos who breathe meaning into who these breeds become in our lives. Many breeds acquired their names from the prey they hunted, the location in which they were discovered, or by inheriting the names of the people who developed or fancied them. The names we give dogs highlight times, places, and people in every chapter of the human story. Dogs accompanied our earliest ancestors and will undoubtedly be there to guide our descendants.

Bonafide Bits:

• Huskies were not named for their strong, hefty physiques or sled-pulling abilities.
• Elvis, a beagle, sniffs polar bear poop at zoos to detect pregnancies.
• There is no such breed as a “French” Poodle, as Poodles were originally developed in Germany.
• A heart-wrenching story of Abraham Lincoln’s dog popularized the name Fido.
• Luna and Max top the AKC’s list of most popular dog names for 2022.

Featured Breeds:

Cairn Terriers

Cairn Terriers are happy, busy little earth dogs originally bred to fearlessly root out foxes and other small, furred prey in the rocky Scottish countryside. Curious and alert, Cairns like having a place where they can explore and dig. The Cairn’s unique qualities, called “Cairnishness,” include a short, wide head and a free-moving, short-legged body that exudes strength but not heaviness, topping out at about 10 inches high and about 15 inches long. The double coat is harsh and wiry on top and downy beneath. A Cairn presents as a small, shaggy, alert dog, with head, tail, and ears up, and eyes shining with intelligence. A British breed club promotes Cairns as the “best little pal in the world.” Cairns are small enough for a laptop snuggle and sturdy enough for a good romp on the lawn. They do best with lots of close family contact. For owners who cherish the terrier qualities of gameness, independent thinking, and true-blue loyalty, no other breed will do. Discover more about Cairn Terriers at AKC’s Cairn Terrier Breed Biography.

Siberian Husky

The graceful, medium-sized Siberian Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each, and convey a keen but amiable, and even mischievous expression. Quick and nimble-footed, Siberians are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait. Tipping the scales at no more than 60 pounds, they are noticeably smaller and lighter than their burly cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibes’ innate friendliness renders them indifferent watchdogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure room to run is a must. An attractive feature of the breed: Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies at AKC’s Siberian Husky Breed Biography.

Beagle

Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion, but it is also happy-go-lucky, funny, and — thanks to its pleading expression — cute. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy company and are generally easygoing. Discover more about Beagles at AKC’s Beagle Breed Biography.

Scottish Deerhound

Stand back: You need a little distance to fully appreciate the majesty of this ancient beast. In silhouette we see a noble coursing hound struck from the classic Greyhound template. Deerhounds are, though, much larger and more substantial than Greyhounds; a good-sized male can stand 32 inches at the shoulder and weigh 110 pounds. The crisp coat is seen in several colors; breed aficionados prefer the dark blue-gray coat. The tapered head and long neck add extra lift to an already stately hound. Discover more about Scottish Deerhounds at AKC’s Scottish Deerhound Breed Biography.

American Foxhound

American Foxhounds are good-natured, low-maintenance hounds who get on well with kids, dogs, and even cats, but come with special considerations for prospective owners. They are closely associated with Revolutionary heroes and the rolling estates of old Virginia. Discover more about American Foxhounds at AKC’s American Foxhound Breed Biography.

Otterhound

Big, boisterous, and affectionate, the Otterhound was bred in medieval England for the now-outlawed activity of otter hunting. This scarce breed is known for its dense shaggy coat, webbed feet, an acute sense of smell, and affinity for swimming. Discover more about Otterhounds at AKC’s Otterhound Breed Biography.

Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound is a robust spitz type known for his lush silver-gray coat and dignified but friendly demeanor. The durable Elkhound is among Europe's oldest dogs. They sailed with the Vikings and figured in Norse art and legend. Norwegian Elkhounds are hardy, short-bodied dogs standing about 20 inches at the shoulder. They have a dense silver-gray coat and a tail curling tightly over the back. The deep chest, sturdy legs, and muscular thighs belong to a dog built for an honest day's work. The eyes are a dark brown and the ears are mobile and erect. Overall, an Elkhound is the picture of an alert and steadfast dog of the north. Elkhounds are famously fine companions and intelligent watchdogs. Agility and herding trials are good outlets for their natural athleticism and eagerness. Reserved until introductions are made, an Elkhound is a trustworthy friend ever after. These strong, confident dogs are truly sensitive souls, with a dash of houndy independence. Discover more about Norwegian Elkhound at AKC’s Norwegian Elkhound Breed Biography.

Cocker Spaniel

The merry and frolicsome Cocker Spaniel, with his big, dreamy eyes and impish personality, is one of the world’s best-loved breeds. They were developed as hunting dogs, but Cockers gained wide popularity as all-around companions. Discover more about Cocker Spaniels at AKC’s Cocker Spaniel Breed Biography.

Bernese Mountain Dog

Big, powerful, and built for hard work, the Bernese Mountain Dog is also strikingly beautiful and blessed with a sweet, affectionate nature. Berners are generally placid but are always up for a romp with the owner, whom they live to please. The Bernese Mountain Dog is a large, sturdy worker who can stand over 27 inches at the shoulder. The thick, silky, and moderately long coat is tricolored: jet black, clear white, and rust. The distinctive markings on the coat and face are breed hallmarks and, combined with the intelligent gleam in the dark eyes, add to the Berner's aura of majestic nobility. A hardy dog who thrives in cold weather, the Berner's brain and brawn helped him multitask on the farms and pastures of Switzerland. Berners get along with the entire family and are particularly gentle with children, but they will often become more attached to one lucky human. Berners are imposing but not threatening, and they maintain an aloof dignity with strangers. Discover more about Bernese Mountain Dogs at AKC’s Bernese Mountain Dog Breed Biography.

Portuguese Water Dog

The bright and biddable Portuguese Water Dog was bred to be an all-around fisherman’s helper. The robust, medium-sized body is covered by a coat of tight, low-shedding curls. They are eager and athletic companions built for water work. Discover more about Portuguese Water Dogs at AKC’s Portuguese Water Dog Breed Biography.

Sealyham Terrier

The Sealyham Terrier is brave and spirited, but not as spiky as smaller terriers. These sturdy, outgoing companions are recognized by their “fall,” the mass of hair covering the forehead. Sealy fans enjoy their dog's sly sense of humor. Standing less than 11 inches at the shoulder and weighing about 24 pounds, Sealys are not big enough to be considered medium-sized dogs, but they stand among the strongest and most substantial of what we think of as small dogs. A typical Sealy is well-muscled, built low to the ground, and moves easily with long, determined strides. The weatherproof coat is predominantly white, and a long, broad head is furnished with lavish facial hair. Despite their rep as the bruiser among short-legged terriers, Sealys are cute, funny, affectionate, outgoing, and trainable, if a bit stubborn. Their alertness and a big-dog bark make Sealys excellent watchdogs. Blessed with an adaptable nature, Sealys are amenable to city dwellings or country life. Discover more about Sealyham Terriers at AKC’s Sealyham Terrier Breed Biography.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

From his brawling past, the muscular but agile Staffordshire Bull Terrier retains the traits of courage and tenacity. Happily, good breeding transformed this former gladiator into a mild, playful companion with a special feel for kids. Discover more about Staffordshire Bull Terriers at AKC’s Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Biography.

Berger Picard

The Berger Picard is a lanky herding dog of strong bone and sturdy build. Picards spent centuries as take-charge independent problem-solvers, so early socialization and positive training are necessary to cope with their stubborn streak. Discover more about Berger Picards at AKC’s Berger Picard Breed Biography.

Czechoslovakian Vlcak

An alert, primitive canine that resembles a wolf in appearance. They are highly intelligent, powerful, active, loyal, and devoted to their owner. They have superior eyesight, hearing, and sense of smell and are known for having excellent stamina and endurance. The Czechoslovakian Vlcak (CSV) was originally bred for working border patrol in Czechoslovakia in the 1950s. They are currently used in Europe and the United States for search and rescue, tracking, obedience, agility, drafting, herding, and working dog sports. The CSV is bred for versatility and hardiness in harsh elements and is much more independent in nature than many other working breeds. They are an excellent choice for tracking or trailing sport/work or as a companion for active owners who enjoy spending time doing outdoor activities such as biking, running, or hiking. They are not, however, recommended for first-time owners. Discover more about Czechoslovakian Vlcaks at AKC’s Czechoslovakian Vlcak Breed Biography.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is an all-purpose “Renaissance hound” whose hallmark is the ridge, or stripe of backward-growing hair, on his back. Though the breed was made famous in its native Africa for its skill at tracking and baying, but never, ever killing, lions, today Ridgebacks are cherished family dogs whose owners must be prepared to deal with their independence and strong prey drive. Discover more about Rhodesian Ridgebacks at AKC’s Rhodesian Ridgeback Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Poodle

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Affenpinscher

The Affen’s apish look has been described in many ways. They’ve been called “monkey dogs” and “ape terriers.” The French say diablotin moustachu (“mustached little devil”), and Star Wars fans argue whether they look more like Wookies or Ewoks. Standing less than a foot tall, these sturdy terrier-like dogs approach life with great confidence. “This isn’t a breed you train,” a professional dog handler tells us, “He's like a human. You befriend him.” The dense, harsh coat is described as “neat but shaggy” and comes in several colors; the gait is light and confident. They can be willful and domineering, but mostly Affens are loyal, affectionate, and always entertaining. Affen people say they love being owned by their little monkey dogs. Discover more about Affenpinschers at AKC’s Affenpinscher Breed Biography.

Peruvian Inca Orchid

Agile, smart, and swift, the Peruvian Inca Orchid is an elegant sighthound that developed in Peru. The breed can be hairless or coated and comes in three sizes: small, medium, and large. Lively and alert, these dogs can be very good hunters and do well in lure coursing, rally, and agility. In the hairless variety, the skin can be of any color. In the coated variety, all colors are accepted including black, brown, gray, pink, tan, and white. Discover more about Peruvian Inca Orchids at AKC’s Peruvian Inca Orchid Breed Biography.

Yorkshire Terrier

Beneath the dainty, glossy, floor-length coat of a Yorkshire Terrier beats the heart of a feisty, old-time terrier. Yorkies earned their living as ratters in mines and mills long before they became the beribboned lapdogs of Victorian ladies. Discover more about Yorkshire Terriers at AKC’s Yorkshire Terrier Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Of all the 200 AKC-recognized breeds, more than half are named to reference the place they were first noticed by Europeans or North Americans.
• Several dogs still retain the name of a country that no longer exists such as the Rhodesian Ridgeback and the Czechoslovakian Vlcak.
• The AKC recently published the top dog names for 2022 and they are Luna (female) and Max (male).

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In this pick-me-up episode, we introduce you to the characters, companions, clowns, and survivors that are the dogs of the Toy group.

Once seen as symbols of royalty and aristocracy, dogs of the Toy group were often the coveted spoils of revolutions, war, and palace coups. The refined elegance and charm of these compact dogs assisted in their survival and solidified their place in many decidedly non-royal homes of today. Join us as we look at how favorite breeds of kings, queens, monarchs, and fashionistas both plummeted and soared in popularity.

Bonafide Bits:

• Chihuahuas, originally named Techichis, were kept by the Toltecs to guide their human companions into the afterlife.
• Both Pekingese and Maltese are referred to as “lion dogs.”
• Aristotle called the elegant Maltese perfectly proportioned.
• In 1926, Roswell Eldridge Esquire offered a hefty purse to breeders who could replicate toy Spaniels of King Charles’ time.
• In the 1500s, Dutch traders smuggled Pugs out of China where they would become mascots in Holland’s House of Orange.

Featured Breeds:

Pekingese

Pekingese are compact, stocky toy dogs weighing up to 14 pounds. The coat is longest at the neck and shoulders, giving Pekes their famous “lion’s mane.” Coats come in various reds, from golden red to darker shades. The large, short-muzzled head is a wider-than-long, envelope-shaped rectangle, and the eyes are large, dark, and sparkly. A unique feature of Pekes is their effortless “rolling” gait. Pekes are charming, confident companions who develop a tight bond with their favorite human. Bred to live in palaces, they can be as serenely independent as the emperors who owned them. (They’re “opinionated,” Peke people say.) Ever alert, they make good watchdogs. Pekes will tolerate kids but won’t stand for a lot of roughhousing. Discover more about Pekingese at AKC’s Pekingese Breed Biography.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a balanced, graceful dog of terrier-like demeanor, weighing no more than six pounds. The rounded “apple” head is a breed hallmark. The erect ears and full, luminous eyes are acutely expressive. Coats come in many colors and patterns and can be long or short. The varieties are identical except for the coat. Chihuahuas possess loyalty, charm, and a big-dog attitude. Even tiny dogs require training, and without it, this clever scamp will rule your household like a little Napoleon. Compact and confident, Chihuahuas are ideal city pets. They are too small for roughhousing with kids, and special care must be taken in cold weather, but Chihuahuas are adaptable as long as they get lots of quality time in their preferred lap. Discover more about Chihuahuas at AKC’s Chihuahua Breed Biography.

Maltese

The tiny Maltese, “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” has been sitting in the lap of luxury since the Bible was a work in progress. Famous for their show-stopping, floor-length coat, Maltese are playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions. Discover more about Malteses at AKC’s Maltese Breed Biography.

Papillon

The quick, curious Papillon is a toy dog of singular beauty and upbeat athleticism. Despite his refined appearance, the Pap is truly a “doggy dog” blessed with a hardy constitution. Papillon fanciers describe their breed as happy, alert, and friendly. A tiny dog, measuring 8 to 11 inches at the shoulder, you can still spot a Papillon a block away thanks to the large, wing-shaped ears that give the breed its name (“papillon” is French for “butterfly”). Some Paps have erect ears; in others, known as the Phalene type, the ears are down. Paps are dainty and elegant, with a plumed tail, and a long, silky coat of several color combinations, the base color being white. More robust than they look, Paps are little dogs for all seasons and reasons. They thrive in warm or cool climates, in town or country, and are eager to join the family fun. They are excellent agility dogs and are consistent winners at the sport’s highest levels; less ambitious owners can train them to do all kinds of tricks. Discover more about Papillons at AKC’s Papillon Breed Biography.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel wears his connection to British history in his breed’s name. Cavaliers are the best of two worlds, combining the gentle attentiveness of a toy breed with the verve and athleticism of a sporting spaniel. Discover more about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels at AKC’s King Charles Spaniel Breed Biography.

English Toy Spaniel

The ETS is a square, snub-nosed toy weighing no more than 14 pounds. The large domed head with its long and lush ears, dark melting eyes, and chubby cheeks is a famous breed trait. The profuse coat comes in four varieties, each with its own proper name: red and white (Blenheim); black and tan (King Charles); white, black, and tan (Prince Charles); and a solid red (Ruby). Blenheims often have a red mark, the 'Blenheim Spot,' on top of the head. The ETS, like many toy breeds kept by royals, came to assume the personalities of their aristocratic owners. They can be proud and willful, and extremely discriminating in their choice of friends. With their favored humans, they are affectionate at home and exuberant and curious at play. Discover more about English Toy Spaniels at AKC’s English Toy Spaniel Breed Biography.

Pug

Once the mischievous companion of Chinese emperors, and later the mascot of Holland's royal House of Orange, the small but solid Pug is today adored by his millions of fans around the world. Pugs live to love and to be loved in return. The Pug's motto is the Latin phrase “multum in parvo” (a lot in a little), an apt description of this small but muscular breed. They come in three colors: silver or apricot-fawn with a black face mask, or all black. The large round head, the big, sparkling eyes, and the wrinkled brow give Pugs a range of human-like expressions, such as surprise, happiness, and curiosity that have delighted owners for centuries. Pug owners say their breed is the ideal house dog. Pugs are happy in the city or country, with kids or old folks, as an only pet, or in a pack. They enjoy their food, and care must be taken to keep them trim. They do best in moderate climates “not too hot, not too cold” but, with proper care, Pugs can be their adorable selves anywhere. Discover more about Pugs at AKC’s Pug Breed Biography.

Italian Greyhound

A true Greyhound in miniature, the elegant Italian Greyhound is an alert, playful, and highly affectionate toy companion. IGs make decorative couch dogs, but at heart, they are flash-and-dash coursing hounds with an instinct for pursuit. Discover more about Italian Greyhounds at AKC’s Italian Greyhound Breed Biography.

Silky Terrier

Small but not fragile, feisty but not yappy, pretty but not sculpted, Silkys are 10-inch-tall dynamos animated by curiosity and high spirits. The glorious blue-and-tan coat is straight and glossy, and it feels and behaves much like human hair. The wedge-shaped head is topped by profuse hair parted down the middle, and erect V-shaped ears draw attention to the keen, piercing expression of the almond-shaped eyes. Silky Terriers are more refined than typical ratting terriers, but they should still look and behave like a true earth dog. Discover more about Silky Terriers at AKC’s Silky Terrier Breed Biography.

Yorkshire Terrier

Beneath the dainty, glossy, floor-length coat of a Yorkshire Terrier beats the heart of a feisty, old-time terrier. Yorkies earned their living as ratters in mines and mills long before they became the beribboned lapdogs of Victorian ladies. The Yorkshire Terrier is a compact, toy-size terrier of no more than seven pounds whose crowning glory is a floor-length, silky coat of steel blue and a rich golden tan. Don’t let the Yorkie’s daintiness fool you. Tenacious, feisty, brave, and sometimes bossy, the Yorkie exhibits all the traits of a true terrier. Often named the most popular dog breed in various American cities, Yorkies pack lots of big-town attitude into a small but self-important package. They are favorites of urbanites the world over. Yorkies are long-lived and hypoallergenic (the coat is more like human hair than animal fur), and they make fine little watchdogs. This is a true “personality breed,” providing years of laughs, love, and close companionship. Discover more about Yorkshire Terriers at AKC’s Yorkshire Terrier Breed Biography.

Pomeranian

The tiny Pomeranian, long a favorite of royals and commoners alike, has been called the ideal companion. The glorious coat, smiling, foxy face, and vivacious personality have helped make the Pom one of the world's most popular toy breeds. Discover more about Pomeranians at AKC’s Pomeranian Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• If you see a pack of Pugs, you have seen a grumble.
• During a storm at sea, King James II of England requested his Spaniels be saved before adding that the rescuers should also save his son.
• As a symbol of affluence in ancient Rome, upper-crust Patrician women flaunted Maltese as fashion accessories.

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In this second installment of guide dog history, we introduce you to a new generation of service dogs and the growing, often unexpected, range of breeds being deployed.

Today, in every part of the world service dogs are being trained and certified to guide the visually and hearing impaired. As scientists explore new frontiers in canine capabilities, evidence suggests that dogs can modify their behavior when a human’s biochemistry changes. This incredible olfactory sense offers humans yet another reason to appreciate, admire, and adore the canine counterparts who stay by their side in service.

Bonafide Bits:

• Sorry, triviaphiles but Timmy never fell down a well on Lassie’s watch.
• In 1938, an engineer who was hard of hearing relied on his canine pal, Rags, to know when the city water station pumps started and stopped.
• In 1976, college students in Massachusetts began training dogs as four-legged prosthetic “ears” for human handlers.
• On July 26, 1990, President Bush signed the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) which gave widespread accessibility to service dogs.
• In 2018, the non-profit, Medical Mutts, trained five dogs to identify and respond to the scent of someone who is having, or just experienced, a seizure.

Featured Breeds:

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

Labrador Retriever

The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. Labs are famously friendly. They are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family, and they socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike. But don’t mistake his easy-going personality for low energy: The Lab is an enthusiastic athlete that requires lots of exercise like swimming and marathon games of fetch, to keep physically and mentally fit. Discover more about Labrador Retrievers at AKC’s Labrador Retriever Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Doberman Pinscher

Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind’s noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world’s finest protection dogs. Discover more about Doberman Pinschers at AKC’s Doberman Pinscher Breed Biography.

Collie

The majestic Collie, thanks to a hundred years as a pop-culture star, is among the world’s most recognizable and beloved dog breeds. The full-coated “rough” Collie is the more familiar variety, but there is also a sleek “smooth” Collie. Discover more about Collies at AKC’s Collie Breed Biography.

Shetland Sheepdog (aka Sheltie)

Shelties bear a strong family resemblance to their bigger cousin, the Collie. The Shetland Sheepdog is a small, active, and agile herding dog standing between 13 and 16 inches at the shoulder. The long coat is harsh and straight, with a dense undercoat, and comes in black, blue merle, and sable, with white markings. Discover more about Shelties at AKC’s Sheltie Breed Biography.

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a lively little companion recognized by his tight tuxedo jacket, sporty but compact body, and the friendly glow in his big, round eyes. His impeccable manners have earned him the nickname “The American Gentleman.” Discover more about Boston Terriers at AKC’s Boston Terrier Breed Biography.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a balanced, graceful dog of terrier-like demeanor, weighing no more than six pounds. The rounded “apple” head is a breed hallmark. The erect ears and full, luminous eyes are acutely expressive. Coats come in many colors and patterns and can be long or short. The varieties are identical except for the coat. Chihuahuas possess loyalty, charm, and a big-dog attitude. Even tiny dogs require training, and without it, this clever scamp will rule your household like a little Napoleon. Compact and confident, Chihuahuas are ideal city pets. They are too small for roughhousing with kids, and special care must be taken in cold weather, but Chihuahuas are adaptable as long as they get lots of quality time in their preferred lap. Discover more about Chihuahuas at AKC’s Chihuahua Breed Biography.

Akita

Akitas are burly, heavy-boned spitz-type dogs of imposing stature. Standing 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder, Akitas have a dense coat that comes in several colors, including white. The head is broad and massive and is balanced in the rear by a full, curled-over tail. The erect ears and dark, shining eyes contribute to an expression of alertness, a hallmark of the breed. Akitas are quiet, fastidious dogs. Wary of strangers and often intolerant of other animals, Akitas will gladly share their silly, affectionate side with family and friends. They thrive on human companionship. The large, independent-thinking Akita is hardwired for protecting those they love. They must be well-socialized from birth with people and other dogs. Discover more about Akitas at AKC’s Akita Breed Biography.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

Among the most agreeable of all small house dogs, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a strong, athletic, and lively little herder who is affectionate and companionable without being needy. They are one of the world's most popular herding breeds. Discover more about Pembroke Welsh Corgis at AKC’s Pembroke Welsh Corgi Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Dogs can be trained to sense a growing list of health conditions including the onset of seizures, heart attacks, and strokes.
• It is a myth that humans discovered the potential of hearing dogs in the 1970s. Hearing dogs have been in service for generations.
• No technology exists that can replicate the vast range of the canine sense of smell. Because dogs are just that awesome.

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In this podcast episode, we introduce you to a pivotal moment in the story of humans and canines, the training of guide dogs for the blind and visually impaired.

Historical data suggests that throughout the millennia, dogs have been in service to humans. From a town square in Ancient China to the perilous battlefields of World War I, dogs have sacrificed their own needs and desires to care for, save, and guide us. Trainers spend months working diligently with guide dogs and their human partners in complex training exercises to prepare them for the tasks. It just may be that dogs are the only animal on earth that provide unconditional obedience paired with unconditional love.

Bonafide Bits:

• There are 2,100 guide dog teams across North America and 22,000 teams worldwide.
• A 13th-century Chinese scroll depicts a dog guiding a visually impaired person.
• Several breeds of dogs were trained to assist WW1 soldiers who were rendered sightless by poison gas.
• In 1927, Dorothy Harrison Eustis wrote The Seeing Eye, a Saturday Evening Post magazine article that introduced America to the concept of training dogs to guide the blind and visually impaired.
• In 1926, Minnesota Senator Thomas D. Schall introduced a bill that allowed guide dogs to accompany their humans on public transit and in restaurants, an early precursor to the public access rights given to guide dogs under the Americans With Disabilites act

Featured Breeds:

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

Labrador Retriever

The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. Labs are famously friendly. They are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family, and they socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike. But don’t mistake his easy-going personality for low energy: The Lab is an enthusiastic athlete that requires lots of exercise like swimming and marathon games of fetch, to keep physically and mentally fit. Discover more about Labrador Retrievers at AKC’s Labrador Retriever Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Poodle

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Boxer

Loyalty, affection, intelligence, work ethic, and good looks: Boxers are the whole doggy package. Bright and alert, sometimes silly, but always courageous, the Boxer has been among America’s most popular dog breeds for a very long time. Discover more about Boxers at AKC’s Boxer Breed Biography.

Doberman Pinscher

Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind’s noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world’s finest protection dogs. Discover more about Doberman Pinschers at AKC’s Doberman Pinscher Breed Biography.

Collie

The majestic Collie, thanks to a hundred years as a pop-culture star, is among the world’s most recognizable and beloved dog breeds. The full-coated “rough” Collie is the more familiar variety, but there is also a sleek “smooth” Collie. Discover more about Collies at AKC’s Collie Breed Biography.

Pointer

The noble Pointer is the ultimate expression of canine power and grace. Unquestioned aristocrats of the sporting world, Pointers carry themselves proudly and are capable of great speed and agility. The coat comes in several colors, solid or in patterns but as the breed’s devotees like to say, a good Pointer can’t be a bad color. A large male can stand 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 75 pounds; a small female might weigh as little as 45 pounds and stand 23 inches. Discover more about Pointers at AKC’s Pointer Breed Biography.

Airedale Terrier

His size, strength, and unflagging spirit have earned the Airedale Terrier the nickname “The King of Terriers.” The Airedale stands among the world’s most versatile dog breeds and has distinguished himself as a hunter, athlete, and companion. Discover more about Airedale Terriers at AKC’s Airedale Terrier Breed Biography.

Giant Schnauzer

The Giant Schnauzer is a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer, and he should, as the breed standard says, be a “bold and valiant figure of a dog.” Great intelligence and loyalty make him a stellar worker and companion. Discover more about Giant Schnauzers at AKC’s Giant Schnauzer Breed Biography.

Newfoundland

The massive Newfoundland is a strikingly large, powerful working dog of heavy bone and dignified bearing. The sweet-tempered Newfie is a famously good companion and has earned a reputation as a patient and watchful “nanny dog” for kids. Discover more about Newfoundlands at AKC’s Newfoundland Breed Biography.

Puli

No other breed can be mistaken for the Puli, a compact but powerful herder covered from head to tail with profuse, naturally occurring cords. Bred to work closely with humans, these agile and faithful little dynamos are quick learners. First, there are those dreadlocks, the instantly recognizable feature of the Puli (pronounced "Poo-lee", "Pulik" is the plural). The coat's naturally occurring cords are wooly, dense, and weatherproof. Either corded or brushed out, Puli coats require lots of attention. Under the dreads there's a compact but powerful dog, standing 16 to 17 inches at the shoulder. Pulik are remarkably agile and light on their feet, earning a reputation as the “acrobat of the dog world.” Discover more about Pulick at AKC’s Puli Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• In 1843, Charles Dickens wrote of guide dogs in his classic “A Christmas Carol.”
• A freak cigar-lighting accident led Senator Thomas D. Schall to introduce a bill that is the basis of guide dog accessibility laws in place today.
• When her guide dog Emma began having vision problems, newly sighted Sheila Hocken switched roles to guide the Labrador Retriever during the final months of her dog’s life.

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In this podcast episode, we introduce you to “All-American Dogs,” or mixed-breed dogs, and share some remarkable stories about them and the owners who love and train them.

The AKC expanded American dog sports to welcome mixed-breed dogs in 2010, and they’ve been competing in events like Agility, Obedience, Fast CAT, and Scent Work ever since. These wild cards of the genus Canis can become circus performers, professional trick dogs, agility champs at Westminster, and lots more. We take a deep dive into the history of All-American Dogs in the AKC to find out more.

Bonafide Bits

• The Canine Partners program welcomes mixed-breed dogs to enroll in the AKC family.
• Over one million dogs and their owners have participated in AKC’s Canine Good Citizen (CGC) program.
• The debut of mixed-breed participation in all AKC agility events was April 1, 2010.

For more information about a specific dog breed, or to find a breed rescue, visit AKC.org.

Shareables

• “AKC’s Purebred Alternative Listing (PAL) program welcomes purebred dogs who aren’t eligible for registration—for example, a rescued Golden Retriever—to participate in AKC events.”
• “In the earliest days of conformation dog shows, mixed-breed dogs participated because rules were lax and breed standards didn’t yet exist.”
• “Phelan, an All-American Dog, clocked a winning 32.3 mph at American Kennel Club’s inaugural Fast CAT Invitational.”

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In this podcast episode, we tour a century and a half of dog shows. In particular, the 30-year heyday of Morris & Essex Kennel Club’s show. With research from the AKC Library and Archives, we will explore how dog shows have been dramatically reinvented over generations and how those reinventions speak volumes about the ever-evolving bond between humans and dogs.

For three glorious decades, the hottest ticket in stateside high society was the Morris & Essex dog show. The event ushered in the platinum age of dog shows. To celebrate the long-awaited return of the great show, attendees of the 2021 rendition (originally slated for the 2020 plague year) donned fine period costumes in tribute to the show’s original creator, financier, and dog lover Mrs. Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge. And, to commemorate the re-emergence of this dog lover’s quintessential event, the AKC digitized the official marked Show Catalogs and AKC Gazettes from the show’s run.

Bonafide Bits:

• The first formal dog show is believed to have been held in New Castle, England in 1859 and sponsored by a gun maker.
• On May 28, 1927, Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge staged the first Morris & Essex dog show featuring 595 dogs from 17 breed categories.
• In 1899, the American Pet Dog Club had 4,000 visitors attend its dog show at New York’s Metropolitan Opera House.
• Heralded as the first lady of dogdom, Mrs. Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge became the first woman to officiate as sole judge for Best in Show at Westminster.
• Based on the historic AKC Gazette coverage of Morris & Essex, 1935-1957, Rock Ridge Night Rocket won back-to-back Morris & Essex Best in Show in 1947 and 1948.

Featured Breeds

Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is a high-spirited gundog known for grace, swiftness, and a flashy red coat. They are famously good family dogs: sweet-tempered companions for the folks, and rollicking playmates and tennis-ball fetchers for the children. Discover more about Irish Setters at AKC’s Irish Setter Breed Biography.

Pointers

The noble Pointer is the ultimate expression of canine power and grace. Unquestioned aristocrats of the sporting world, Pointers carry themselves proudly and are capable of great speed and agility. The coat comes in several colors, solid or in patterns but as the breed’s devotees like to say, a good Pointer can’t be a bad color. A large male can stand 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 75 pounds; a small female might weigh as little as 45 pounds and stand 23 inches. Discover more about Pointers at AKC’s Pointer Breed Biography.

Japanese Chin

Chin are the unrivaled noblemen of Japanese breeds. They’re tiny “indoorsy” companions, with an unmistakably Eastern look and bearing. The head is large, the muzzle short, and the round, dark eyes convey, as Chin fans like to say, a “look of astonishment.” The profuse mane around the neck and shoulders, the plumed tail arching over the back, and the pants or “culottes” on the hind legs project the elegant, exotic appearance so typical of Asia’s royal line of laptop cuddle bugs. Discover more about Japanese Chins at AKC’s Japanese Chin Breed Biography.

French Bulldog

The one-of-a-kind French Bulldog, with his large bat ears and even disposition, is one of the world’s most popular small-dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. The Frenchie is playful, alert, adaptable, and completely irresistible. Discover more about French Bulldogs at AKC’s French Bulldog Breed Biography.

Irish Terrier

Irish Terriers are the prototype of a long-legged terrier. Standing about 18 inches at the shoulder, they’re sturdy but lithe and graceful. Every line of the body is eye-catching, and the overall picture is beautifully balanced. The tight red coat is as fiery as the breed’s temperament. Irish Terriers are a dog lover’s delight: If your heart doesn’t go pitty-pat at the sight of this technicolor terrier framed against the vivid greens of the Irish countryside, forget dogs and buy a goldfish. Discover more about Irish Terriers at AKC’s Irish Terrier Breed Biography.

Saint Bernard

The Saint Bernard does not rank very high in AKC registrations, but the genial giant of the Swiss Alps is nonetheless among the world’s most famous and beloved breeds. Saints are famously watchful, patient, and careful with children. Discover more about Saint Bernards at AKC’s Saint Bernard Breed Biography.

English Cocker Spaniel

English Cocker Spaniel lovers often use the word 'merry' to describe their breed. Upbeat in the field and mellow at home, this compact, silky-coated bird dog is widely admired for his delightful personality and irresistible good looks. The English Cocker Spaniel is a compactly built sporting dog standing between 15 to 17 inches at the shoulder. The softly contoured head, with its dark, melting eyes that convey an alert and dignified expression, is framed by lush, close-lying ears. Discover more about English Cocker Spaniels at AKC’s English Cocker Spaniel Breed Biography.

Beagle

Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion, but it is also happy-go-lucky, funny, and — thanks to its pleading expression — cute. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy company and are generally easygoing. Discover more about Beagles at AKC’s Beagle Breed Biography.

Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are large, substantial dogs standing 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 110 pounds. Their most famous features are a long, wrinkled face with loose skin; huge, drooping ears; and warm, deep-set eyes that complete an expression of solemn dignity. Coat colors can be black and tan, liver and tan, or red. Powerful legs allow Bloodhounds to scent over miles of punishing terrain. As pack dogs, Bloodhounds enjoy company, including other dogs and kids. They are easygoing, but their nose can sometimes lead them into trouble. A strong leash and long walks in places where they can enjoy sniffing around are recommended. Bloodhounds are droolers, and obedience training these sensitive sleuths can be a challenge. Discover more about Bloodhounds at AKC’s Bloodhound Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Bedlington Terrier

Bedlingtons are lithe, energetic Englishmen. The crisp, curly coat; arched back; tasseled ears; scimitar-shaped tail; and fleecy, pear-shaped head are identifying features of this one-of-a-kind breed. As the curvy contours indicate, there’s a sighthound Whippet most likely in their family tree. Bedlingtons move with a light, springy step and when roused to pursuit, can run like the wind. Rollicking, charming, and full of fun, Bedlingtons want most to be their family’s center of attention and are known to be protective of loved ones. For an active family looking for a no-shedding, lively, and loyal companion, the search might end here. Discover more about Bedlington Terriers at AKC’s Bedlington Terrier Breed Biography.

Poodle (Miniature)

Poodles come in three size varieties: Standards should be more than 15 inches tall at the shoulder; Miniatures are 15 inches or under; Toys stand no more than 10 inches. All three varieties have the same build and proportions. At dog shows, Poodles are usually seen in the elaborate Continental Clip. Most pet owners prefer the simpler Sporting Clip, in which the coat is shorn to follow the outline of the squarely built, smoothly muscled body.

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Miniature Poodles at AKC’s Miniature Poodle Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables

• In 1927, Mrs. Geraldine Rockefeller Dodge staged the first Morris & Essex dog show, featuring 595 dogs from 17 breed categories.
• The first Morris & Essex dog show ushered in the platinum age of dog shows for high society dog fanciers.
• Today’s modern Morris & Essex dog show is both an excellent show and a fond throwback to the show’s heyday.

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In this podcast episode, we explore the history of dogs as brand ambassadors in corporate America’s marketing campaigns.

Simply seeing an image of a dog can instill feelings of comfort in people, which is why corporations use compassionate canines to boost their company’s perception and peddle their products. Many of the most memorable marketing campaigns of the twentieth century included a dog as a mascot. And, research shows that the use of dogs online and in social media can dramatically increase engagement. They pose for photos, attend live events, and even give “paw-tographs” to adoring fans, but who were the real dogs behind the mascots of corporate advertising fame?

Bonafide Bits:

• Donning a diamond-studded tiara and collar, Lady Greyhound led a successful 10-year PR campaign for Greyhound Lines.
• 20,000 paper-mache replicas of RCA’s spokesdog, Nipper, were used as store displays.
• A Basset Hound naturally represented easy-going, casual comfort for Hushpuppy shoes.
• The Bull Terrier who served as the famous Spuds MacKenzie was a female named Honey Tree Evil Eye, or “Evie” for short.

Featured Breeds:

Greyhound

Greyhounds are the essence of the dog breeder’s credo “Form follows function.” From the narrow, aerodynamic skull to the shock-absorbing pads of the feet, Greyhounds are perfectly constructed for high-speed pursuit. The lean beauty of the Greyhound “inverted S” shape, created by the deep chest curving gently into a tightly tucked waist, has been an object of fascination for artists, poets, and kings for as long as human beings have called themselves civilized. Greyhounds are the template from which other coursing hounds have been struck. Discover more about Greyhounds at AKC’s Greyhound Breed Biography.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a balanced, graceful dog of terrier-like demeanor, weighing no more than six pounds. The rounded “apple” head is a breed hallmark. The erect ears and full, luminous eyes are acutely expressive. Coats come in many colors and patterns and can be long or short. The varieties are identical except for the coat. Chihuahuas possess loyalty, charm, and a big-dog attitude. Even tiny dogs require training, and without it, this clever scamp will rule your household like a little Napoleon. Compact and confident, Chihuahuas are ideal city pets. They are too small for roughhousing with kids, and special care must be taken in cold weather, but Chihuahuas are adaptable as long as they get lots of quality time in their preferred lap. Discover more about Chihuahuas at AKC’s Chihuahua Breed Biography.

Boxer

Loyalty, affection, intelligence, work ethic, and good looks: Boxers are the whole doggy package. Bright and alert, sometimes silly, but always courageous, the Boxer has been among America’s most popular dog breeds for a very long time. Discover more about Boxers at AKC’s Boxer Breed Biography.

Bull Terrier

Bull Terriers are robust, big-boned terriers who move with a jaunty stride suggesting agility and power. The breed's hallmark is a long, egg-shaped head with erect and pointed ears and small, triangular eyes that glisten with good humor. Coats come in two types: white; and any other color (including an attractive brindle striping), either solid or with white markings. A well-made BT is the picture of muscular determination and balance. There are four keys to BT happiness: early socialization with dogs and people; firm but loving training; ample exercise; and lots of quality time with his adored humans. If these requirements are met, there is no more loyal, lovable, and entertaining companion. This is the ultimate “personality breed.” Discover more about Bull Terriers at AKC’s Bull Terrier Breed Biography.

Smooth Fox Terrier

Smooths are quite similar to their close relatives, Wire Fox Terriers. Like their crispy-coated cousins, Smooths stand no more than 15.5 inches at the shoulder. The distinguishing physical trait, besides coat type, is the head: A Smooth’s head is more V-shaped than a Wire’s. The dense, flat coat is predominantly white, with black, tan, or black-and-tan markings. These cleverly made hunters are strong and sturdy, but never coarse and clunky. Short-backed and symmetrical, they move with the unwavering grace of a pendulum clock. Discover more about Smooth Fox Terriers at AKC’s Smooth Fox Terrier Breed Biography.

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound stands no higher than 14 inches at the shoulder but, with his remarkably heavy bone, powerful little legs, and massive paws, he possesses big-dog strength and stamina. Bassets are famous for a large, domed head that features extremely long, velvety ears, mournful eyes, and a wrinkled brow, which give the breed the look of a sad clown. Built more for endurance than speed, the Basset moves in a deliberate but effortless manner. The breed’s scenting ability is uncanny; it’s said that among dogs only the Bloodhound’s nose is more accurate. Mild and agreeable at home, the Basset is stubborn on the trail and barks in a loud, ringing voice. Although they may not be wildly demonstrative in their affections, they are steadfastly loyal. Discover more about Basset Hounds at AKC’s Basset Hound Breed Biography.

Bulldog

You can’t mistake a Bulldog for any other breed. The loose skin of the head, furrowed brow, pushed-in nose, small ears, undershot jaw with hanging chops on either side, and the distinctive rolling gait all practically scream “I’m a Bulldog!” The coat, seen in a variety of colors and patterns, is short, smooth, and glossy. Bulldogs can weigh up to 50 pounds, but that won’t stop them from curling up in your lap or at least trying to. But don’t mistake their easygoing ways for laziness: Bulldogs enjoy brisk walks and need regular moderate exercise, along with a careful diet, to stay trim. Summer afternoons are best spent in an air-conditioned room as a Bulldog’s short snout can cause labored breathing in hot and humid weather. Discover more about Bulldogs at AKC’s Bulldog Breed Biography.

Borzoi

Borzoi are large, elegant sighthounds. A mature male stands at least 28 inches at the shoulder and weighs 75 to 105 pounds. Females will be smaller. Beneath the luxurious silky coat, Borzoi construction follows the ancient Greyhound template. Once known as the Russian Wolfhound, Borzoi were bred to be swift and tough enough to pursue and pin their ferocious lupine quarry. In their quiet, catlike way they can be stubborn, and training is best accomplished with patience, consistency, and good humor. Affectionate family dogs, Borzoi are nonetheless a bit too dignified to wholeheartedly enjoy a lot of roughhousing. The sight of a cat or squirrel on the run will quickly stir their instinct to pursue and fenced-in running room is a must. Discover more about Borzois at AKC’s Borzoi Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Party animal Spuds Mackenzie was a female Bull Terrier named Honey Tree Evil Eye, or “Evie” for short.
• Even though Lady Greyhound served as the bus company’s spokesdog for 10 years, Greyhound Lines had a no pet policy.
• Gidget the “Taco Bell” Chihuahua also starred in a Geico commercial.

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In this podcast episode, we explore canine anatomy to reveal the deliberate function behind the familiar forms of breeds you know. And a few breeds that are not-so-familiar.

The way a dog is built and how it moves says a lot about its original purpose and place of origin. Whether it is to climb steep cliffs to catch birds or having a short stature to keep a nose to the ground, every aspect of a dog’s anatomy lends to its unique abilities. The AKC recognizes 197 distinct breeds today, and each has been purposefully bred to perfect a wide range of canine skills and talents.

Bonafide Bits

• Dachshund translates to “badger hound.” The breed has been around since the 1400s.
• Testimony of a Bloodhound’s findings is acceptable in some courts.
• The Norwegian Lundehund has a three-jointed toe, much like a human thumb.

Featured Breeds

Basset Hound

The Basset Hound stands no higher than 14 inches at the shoulder but, with his remarkably heavy bone, powerful little legs, and massive paws, he possesses big-dog strength and stamina. Bassets are famous for a large, domed head that features extremely long, velvety ears, mournful eyes, and a wrinkled brow, which give the breed the look of a sad clown. Built more for endurance than speed, the Basset moves in a deliberate but effortless manner. The breed’s scenting ability is uncanny; it’s said that among dogs only the Bloodhound’s nose is more accurate. Mild and agreeable at home, the Basset is stubborn on the trail and barks in a loud, ringing voice. Although they may not be wildly demonstrative in their affections, they are steadfastly loyal. Discover more about Basset Hounds at AKC’s Basset Hound Breed Biography.

Chihuahua

The Chihuahua is a balanced, graceful dog of terrier-like demeanor, weighing no more than 6 pounds. The rounded “apple” head is a breed hallmark. The erect ears and full, luminous eyes are acutely expressive. Coats come in many colors and patterns and can be long or short. The varieties are identical except for the coat. Chihuahuas possess loyalty, charm, and a big-dog attitude. Even tiny dogs require training, and without it, this clever scamp will rule your household like a little Napoleon. Compact and confident, Chihuahuas are ideal city pets. They are too small for roughhousing with kids, and special care must be taken in cold weather, but Chihuahuas are adaptable as long as they get lots of quality time in their preferred lap. Discover more about Chihuahuas at AKC’s Chihuahua Breed Biography.

Poodle

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is a high-spirited gundog known for grace, swiftness, and a flashy red coat. They are famously good family dogs: sweet-tempered companions for the folks, and rollicking playmates and tennis-ball fetchers for the children. Discover more about Irish Setters at AKC’s Irish Setter Breed Biography.

Gordon Setter

The Gordon Setter, the black avenger of the Highlands, is a substantial bird dog named for a Scottish aristocrat. Athletic and outdoorsy, Gordons are bold, confident, and resolute in the field, and sweetly affectionate by the fireside. Discover more about Gordon Setters at AKC’s Gordon Setter Breed Biography.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

Labrador Retriever

The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. Labs are famously friendly. They are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family, and they socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike. But don’t mistake his easy-going personality for low energy: The Lab is an enthusiastic athlete that requires lots of exercise like swimming and marathon games of fetch, to keep physically and mentally fit. Discover more about Labrador Retrievers at AKC’s Labrador Retriever Breed Biography.

Dachshund

The word “icon” is terribly overworked, but the Dachshund with his unmistakable long-backed body, little legs, and big personality is truly an icon of purebred dogdom. Dachshunds can be standard-sized (usually 16 to 32 pounds) or miniature (11 pounds or under), and come in one of three coat types: smooth, wirehaired, or longhaired. Dachshunds aren’t built for distance running, leaping, or strenuous swimming, but otherwise, these tireless hounds are game for anything. Smart and vigilant, with a big-dog bark, they make fine watchdogs. Bred to be an independent hunter of dangerous prey, they can be brave to the point of rashness, and a bit stubborn, but their endearing nature and unique look have won millions of hearts the world over. Discover more about Dachshunds at AKC’s Dachshund Breed Biography.

Norwegian Lundehund

At a glance, Lundehunds seem a typical northern breed: A spitz-type with triangular ears, curving tail, and a dense double coat. But a closer look reveals several unique traits. They have feet with at least six fully functioning toes and extra paw pads, an 'elastic neck' that can crane back so the head touches the spine, ears that fold shut, and flexible shoulders that allow forelegs to extend to the side, perpendicular to the body. This last anomaly produces the breed’s distinctive “rotary” gait. Discover more about Norwegian Lundehunds at AKC’s Norwegian Lundehund Breed Biography.

Schipperke

Standing no higher than 13 inches, Schipperkes are small dogs built for hard work. Schips were created as ratters and watchdogs. Their powerful jaws, necks, and forequarters coupled with a stealthy, catlike hunting style make them ideal rat-catching machines. The black coat is profuse around the neck, shoulders, and legs, giving the breed a silhouette that accentuates a thick, substantial body. The foxy face completes the unique look of a unique breed. If you can’t tell a Schipperke from an ordinary dog, you simply haven't been paying attention. Discover more about Schipperkes at AKC’s Schipperke Breed Biography.

Bloodhound

Bloodhounds are large, substantial dogs standing 23 to 27 inches at the shoulder and weighing up to 110 pounds. Their most famous features are a long, wrinkled face with loose skin; huge, drooping ears; and warm, deep-set eyes that complete an expression of solemn dignity. Coat colors can be black and tan, liver and tan, or red. Powerful legs allow Bloodhounds to scent over miles of punishing terrain. As pack dogs, Bloodhounds enjoy company, including other dogs and kids. They are easygoing, but their nose can sometimes lead them into trouble. A strong leash and long walks in places where they can enjoy sniffing around are recommended. Bloodhounds are droolers, and obedience training these sensitive sleuths can be a challenge. Discover more about Bloodhounds at AKC’s Bloodhound Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables

• Fiery terriers can be trained and socialized to be good neighbors and trustworthy pets.
• The wrinkles, long ears, and dewlap—which hangs from the neck—are designed to gather scents towards a Bloodhound’s incredible nose.
• Fun fact: Humans have about five million scent receptors in their noses. There are dog breeds that have 20 times that.

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In this podcast episode, we meet some of the brave, tireless dogs and handlers who were an integral part of the harrowing events of 9/11 and the subsequent search, rescue, and recovery effort.

When catastrophes occur, humans and dogs team up to perform dangerous and difficult tasks. Highly-trained working dogs and their handlers must commit to long hours in perilous situations to save lives and provide comfort. The recovery efforts in the aftermath of 9/11 are a testament to a dog’s unique abilities, courage, and the therapeutic resilience that they generously share with us in times of need.

Bonafide Bits

• Apollo, a German Shepherd Dog, and handler Pete Davis were the first canine search and rescue team to arrive at Ground Zero.
• Golden Retriever Bretagne and handler Diane Corliss spent 10 days searching through the World Trade Center wreckage.
• Border Collie Sage worked recovery at the Pentagon and hurricanes Rita and Katrina before being deployed to Iraq.
• Trakr, a German Shepherd Dog, and handler James Symington rescued a woman from World Trade Center rubble 26 hours after she became trapped.
• Golden Retriever Nikie, Keeshond Tikva, with certified trauma responder Frank Shane and trainer Cindy Ehlers, provided comfort to weary human workers during the crisis.

Featured Breeds

Labrador Retriever

The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. Labs are famously friendly. They are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family, and they socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike. But don’t mistake his easy-going personality for low energy: The Lab is an enthusiastic athlete that requires lots of exercise like swimming and marathon games of fetch, to keep physically and mentally fit. Discover more about Labrador Retrievers at AKC’s Labrador Retriever Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

Doberman Pinscher

Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind’s noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world’s finest protection dogs. Discover more about Doberman Pinschers at AKC’s Doberman Pinscher Breed Biography.

Bulldog

Kind but courageous, friendly but dignified, the Bulldog is a thick-set, low-slung, well-muscled bruiser whose “sour mug” face is the universal symbol of courage and tenacity. These docile, loyal companions adapt well to town or country. Discover more about Bulldogs at AKC’s Bulldog Breed Biography.

Border Collie

A remarkably bright workaholic, the Border Collie is an amazing dog—maybe a bit too amazing for owners without the time, energy, or means to keep it occupied. These energetic dogs will settle down for cuddle time when the workday is done. Discover more about Border Collies at AKC’s Border Collie Breed Biography.

Belgian Malinois

The smart, confident, and versatile Belgian Malinois is a world-class worker who forges an unbreakable bond with his human partner. To deny a Mal activity and the pleasure of your company is to deprive him of his very reasons for being. Discover more about Belgian Malinois at AKC’s Belgian Malinois Breed Biography.

Yorkshire Terrier

Beneath the dainty, glossy, floor-length coat of a Yorkshire Terrier beats the heart of a feisty, old-time terrier. Yorkies earned their living as ratters in mines and mills long before they became the beribboned lapdogs of Victorian ladies. Discover more about Yorkshire Terriers at AKC’s Yorkshire Terrier Breed Biography.

Keeshond

These square, sturdy companions descend from the same ancient stock as other spitz types, such as Pomeranians and Samoyeds. Typically “spitzy,” Keeshonden have a foxy face, pointed ears, an abundant coat, and a plumed tail carried high over the back. A unique breed characteristic and one of the most charming hallmarks in all dogdom is the “spectacles.” These shadings and markings around the eyes give the impression that a Kees is wearing designer eyewear. The specs draw attention to an alert, intelligent expression. Discover more about Keeshonds at AKC’s Keeshond Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables From This Episode

• Air-scenting dogs detect scent without putting their nose on the ground or against objects. They are well suited for rescue efforts.
• Therapy dogs are valued in difficult situations for the comfort they can provide, but even they were tested by the incomprehensible events of 9/11.
• Search and rescue dogs who worked at 9/11 sites were studied to see how their work impacted their lifespan.

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In this podcast episode, we gain a better understanding of why dogs play a starring role in thousands of years of human folklore and explore the very real breeds that inspired the stories.

Dogs permeate human myth and folklore more than any other creature. Their expansive field of vision, sensitivity to high-pitched sounds, and exceptional gift of sniff could be the reason many myths and legends portray dogs as supersensory guards and protectors of mere mortals. Dogs’ roles in human stories reflect neither the good nor the bad of them — rather they demonstrate the central place dogs occupy in our shared consciousness.

Bonafide Bits

• “Dogs of Myth,” a book by Gerald and Loretta Hausman, chronologically captures a treasure trove of dog lore.
• In Chinese folklore, the Pekingese is known to have the heart of a lion.
• In Tibet, the Lhasa Apso is the earthly incarnation of the mythical snow lion.
• Canis Major is the constellation that includes the dog star Sirius, Orion’s hunting dog.
• In Greek mythology, Cerberus is a three-headed dog who guards the underworld of Hades.

Featured Breeds

Mastiff

For the uninitiated, a face-to-face encounter with these black-masked giants can be startling. A male stands at least 30 inches at the shoulder and can outweigh many a full-grown man. The rectangular body is deep and thickly muscled, covered by a short double coat of fawn, apricot, or brindle stripes. The head is broad and massive, and a wrinkled forehead accentuates an alert, kindly expression. Mastiffs are patient, lovable companions and guardians who take best to gentle training. Eternally loyal Mastiffs are protective of family, and a natural wariness of strangers makes early training and socialization essential. Mastiffs are magnificent pets, but acquiring a powerful giant-breed dog is a commitment not to be taken lightly. Discover more about Mastiffs at AKC’s Mastiff Breed Biography.

English Toy Spaniel

The ETS is a square, snub-nosed toy weighing no more than 14 pounds. The large domed head with its long and lush ears, dark melting eyes, and chubby cheeks is a famous breed trait. The profuse coat comes in four varieties, each with its own proper name: red and white (Blenheim); black and tan (King Charles); white, black, and tan (Prince Charles); and a solid red (Ruby). Blenheims often have a red mark, the 'Blenheim Spot,' on top of the head. The ETS, like many toy breeds kept by royals, came to assume the personalities of their aristocratic owners. They can be proud and willful, and extremely discriminating in their choice of friends. With their favored humans, they are affectionate at home and exuberant and curious at play. Discover more about English Toy Spaniels at AKC’s English Toy Spaniel Breed Biography.

Akita

Akitas are burly, heavy-boned spitz-type dogs of imposing stature. Standing 24 to 28 inches at the shoulder, Akitas have a dense coat that comes in several colors, including white. The head is broad and massive and is balanced in the rear by a full, curled-over tail. The erect ears and dark, shining eyes contribute to an expression of alertness, a hallmark of the breed. Akitas are quiet, fastidious dogs. Wary of strangers and often intolerant of other animals, Akitas will gladly share their silly, affectionate side with family and friends. They thrive on human companionship. The large, independent-thinking Akita is hardwired for protecting those they love. They must be well socialized from birth with people and other dogs. Discover more about Akitas at AKC’s Akita Breed Biography.

Tibetan Mastiff

Coming face to face with this ancient behemoth, an intruder up to no good, will likely move on to easier pickings. Tibetan Mastiffs can stand 26 inches at the shoulder and weigh well over 100 pounds. It’s impossible to discuss this breed without leaning on words like “powerful,” “muscular,” “massive,” and “substantial.” And yet, TMs are quite light-footed and will meet a perceived threat with surprising agility. The broad head, with its high-set, V-shaped ears, and expressive brown eyes, projects a noble, sagacious expression. Discover more about Tibetan Mastiffs at AKC’s Tibetan Mastiff Breed Biography.

Lhasa Apso

The lavishly coated Lhasa Apso is a thousand-year-old breed that served as sentinels at palaces and monasteries isolated high in the Himalayas. Smart, confident, and complex, Lhasas are family comedians but regally aloof with strangers. Discover more about Lhasa Apsos at AKC’s Lhasa Apso Breed Biography.

Pekingese

Pekingese are compact, stocky toy dogs weighing up to 14 pounds. The coat is longest at the neck and shoulders, giving Pekes their famous “lion’s mane.” Coats come in various reds, from golden-red to darker shades. The large, short-muzzled head is a wider-than-long, envelope-shaped rectangle, and the eyes are large, dark, and sparkly. A unique feature of Pekes is their effortless “rolling” gait. Pekes are charming, confident companions who develop a tight bond with their favorite human. Bred to live in palaces, they can be as serenely independent as the emperors who owned them. (They’re “opinionated,” Peke people say.) Ever alert, they make good watchdogs. Pekes will tolerate kids but won’t stand for a lot of roughhousing. Discover more about Pekingese at AKC’s Pekingese Breed Biography.

Afghan Hound

Since ancient times, Afghan Hounds have been famous for their elegant beauty. But the thick, silky, flowing coat that is the breed’s crowning glory isn’t just for show; it served as protection from the harsh climate in mountainous regions where Afghans originally earned their keep. Beneath the Afghan’s glamorous exterior is a powerful, agile hound, standing as high as 27 inches at the shoulder, built for a long day’s hunt. Their huge paw-pads acted as shock absorbers on their homeland’s punishing terrain. The Afghan Hound is a special breed for special people. A breed expert writes, “It’s not the breed for all would-be dog owners, but where the dog and owner combination is right, no animal can equal the Afghan Hound as a pet.” Discover more about Afghan Hounds at AKC’s Afghan Hound Breed Biography.

Xoloitzcuintli

The 3,000-year-old Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced “show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee”), the ancient Aztec dog of the gods, is today a loving companion and vigilant watchdog. The alert and loyal Xolo comes in three sizes, and either hairless or coated varieties. Discover more about Xoloitzcuintlis at AKC’s Xoloitzcuintli Breed Biography.

Basenji

Basenjis are small, graceful hounds standing 16 or 17 inches at the shoulder. They are recognizable by their glistening short coat, tightly curled tail, and wrinkled forehead, and expressive almond-shaped eyes that convey a variety of subtle, humanlike emotions. Basenjis are a lovely sight at a standstill but more impressive yet at a fast trot when they exhibit the long, smooth strides of a mini-racehorse. And yes, it’s true, they don’t bark, but they make their feelings known with an odd sound described as something between a chortle and a yodel. Basenjis are fastidious and will groom themselves like cats. They have been called a “cult breed” as they are small in numbers, but those lucky enough to own one do so with singular devotion. Discover more about Basenjis at AKC’s Basenji Breed Biography.

Saluki

Among the world’s oldest breeds, the slim but rugged Saluki was the hunting hound of kings for thousands of years. Salukis are swift and agile sprinters who love a good chase. They make gentle, dignified, and independent but loyal pets. The beauty of Salukis has been a thing of wonder for thousands of years. They’re slim and leggy, but very strong and perfectly balanced, like a great athlete or dancer. Males can stand between 23 and 28 inches at the shoulder; females can be much shorter. They come in many colors and patterns. Their large, oval-shaped eyes are warm and intelligent. Salukis are highly adaptable, able to live and work in any climate. They’re magnificent animals, but owning them comes with many special challenges. Discover more about Salukis at AKC’s Saluki Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Legend has it, the Afghan Hound was the only dog breed to procure a spot on Noah’s Ark.
• Cerberus, the three-headed hellhound was only tricked thrice. Or, was he?
• A dog’s nose has 200 million smell receptors, more than 40 times the amount of a human.

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In this podcast episode, we find out what it takes for a dog breed to become recognized by the AKC, how the process works, important timelines, and hear some colorful stories about the history of breed recognition.

In 2021, the AKC recognizes 197 breeds of dogs. Recognition can help nurture and support breeds and can be a key to a breed’s preservation. Early dog clubs tended to be unorganized, and enthusiasts sometimes held events without the rules or structure fanciers are accustomed to today. Since the early days of the organization, the AKC has moved toward standardizing the recognition process by incorporating vital components such as Stud Books and the Foundation Stock Service.

Bonafide Bits:

• In 1877, the chaotic New York Bench Show for Dogs was the precursor to the Westminster Dog Show.
• In 1884, twelve prestigious representatives from different dog clubs united to form the preeminent American Kennel Club.
• A generous gift of a three-volume stud book by Dr. Nicholas Rowe solidified the newly-formed AKC with a framework for the recognition process.
• In 1878, the first breed recognized by the AKC was the Pointer of the Sporting Group.
• After a steadfast dedication to their cause, in 2016, Sloughi owners rejoiced as their beloved dogs achieved AKC recognition.

Featured Breeds:

Sloughi

The Sloughi (SLOO-ghee) is a classically constructed sighthound of ancient lineage, originally bred to work on such game as hare, fox, jackal, gazelle, and wild pigs on the punishing terrain of its homeland. This is a lean, no-frills hound standing between 24 to 29 inches at the shoulder. Coat colors include shades of light sand to mahogany red-fawn, with or without brindling, with or without black markings, with no invasive white markings. The Sloughi’s big, dark eyes are often described as “melancholy.” Discover more about Sloughis at AKC’s Sloughi Breed Biography.

Pointer

The noble Pointer is the ultimate expression of canine power and grace. Unquestioned aristocrats of the sporting world, Pointers carry themselves proudly and are capable of great speed and agility. The coat comes in several colors, solid or in patterns but as the breed’s devotees like to say, a good Pointer can’t be a bad color. A large male can stand 28 inches at the shoulder and weigh up to 75 pounds; a small female might weigh as little as 45 pounds and stand 23 inches. Discover more about Pointers at AKC’s Pointer Breed Biography.

Pumi

The Pumi (POO-mee; plural Pumik) was conceived as a compact, quick, and fearless sheepherder capable of moving flocks on the narrow roads connecting the pastures of western Hungary. At a glance, it might be hard to believe that this cuddly charmer was born to do such tough work. With his coat of corkscrew curls, circular tail, expressive ears, and distinctively whimsical look, the Pumi is all kinds of cute. But beneath the curls is a lean, deep-chested herder with a seemingly endless capacity for work and play. Discover more about Pumik at AKC’s Pumi Breed Biography.

American Hairless Terrier

The American Hairless Terrier stands between 12 to 16 inches at the shoulder and comes in both coated and hairless varieties. The hairless variety might have eyebrows and whiskers, while the coated have a short, shiny coat. The skin of the hairless is smooth and warm to the touch. The broad, wedge-shaped head is a hallmark of both varieties. Erect, V-shaped ears frame the round, expressive eyes that gleam with curiosity. The American Hairless moves with jaunty pep in his step that announces a real terrier attitude. The hairless variety is as hypoallergenic as a dog can get. Hairlessness, though, presents its own challenges. Sunburn is a concern, and cold weather requires special precautions. This breed is protective of their humans and makes for alert watchdogs. Discover more about American Hairless Terriers at AKC’s American Hairless Terrier Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• AKC recognition can help nurture and support dog breeds and their fanciers.
• The Foundation Stock Service serves as the keeper of records for breeds that may lack a steady base or club, and is the first formal step toward recognition.
• A breed must have 150 dogs with three generations of pedigree in its stud book to enter AKC’s Miscellaneous Class, one step removed from full recognition.

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In this podcast episode, we explore the dog breeds that ranked on both ends of the spectrum of AKC’s statistics for breed popularity in 2020.

Dog breeds say a lot about America. Popular culture, urban sprawl, and economics are some of the many factors that can influence people to choose one breed over another. Sometimes the rise of certain breeds can be linked to a canine character in a book, television series, or movie. But, remember, “most popular” doesn’t mean “better.”

We explore breeds at the top of the list and the “underdogs” at the other end of the list that share traits and purpose.

Bonafide Bits

• A Labrador Retriever (No. 1) has topped the AKC’s most popular list since 1991.
• In the late 1800s, the Golden Retriever (No. 4) was developed by Dudley Marjoribanks as the ideal gun dog.
• The Harrier (No. 190), a hunting powerhouse, is rare today but has been part of America since colonial times.
• The rare Chinook (No. 186) was bred with similar intent to the mischievous Siberian Husky (No. 16) and is the state dog of New Hampshire.

Featured Breeds

Labrador Retriever

The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. Labs are famously friendly. They are companionable housemates who bond with the whole family, and they socialize well with neighbor dogs and humans alike. But don’t mistake his easy-going personality for low energy: The Lab is an enthusiastic athlete that requires lots of exercise like swimming and marathon games of fetch, to keep physically and mentally fit. Discover more about Labrador Retrievers at AKC’s Labrador Retriever breed biography.

French Bulldog

The one-of-a-kind French Bulldog, with his large bat ears and even disposition, is one of the world’s most popular small-dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. The Frenchie is playful, alert, adaptable, and completely irresistible. Discover more about French Bulldogs at AKC’s French Bulldog breed biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog breed biography.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever breed biography.

Bulldog

Kind but courageous, friendly but dignified, the Bulldog is a thick-set, low-slung, well-muscled bruiser whose “sour mug” face is the universal symbol of courage and tenacity. These docile, loyal companions adapt well to town or country. Discover more about Bulldogs at AKC’s Bulldog breed biography.

Flat-Coated Retriever

The Peter Pan of the Sporting Group, the forever-young Flat-Coated Retriever is a gundog of relatively recent origin. Happy, self-assured, and willing to please, a good Flat-Coat will retrieve a duck or a show ribbon with equal aplomb. A Flat-Coat will stand as tall as a Labrador Retriever, but in silhouette, they present a leaner, more elegant look. Dogdom's champion tail-waggers, Flat-Coats are among the happiest of all breeds. They mature slowly; some owners say that they never grow up at all, retaining a puppyish taste for rambunctious mischief into old age. This can be either delightful or exasperating, depending on your tolerance for such antics. This highly energetic breed requires lots of outdoorsy exercise. Discover more about Flat-Coated Retrievers at AKC’s Flat-Coated Retriever breed biography.

Boston Terrier

The Boston Terrier is a lively little companion recognized by his tight tuxedo jacket, sporty but compact body, and the friendly glow in his big, round eyes. His impeccable manners have earned him the nickname “The American Gentleman.” Discover more about Boston Terriers at AKC’s Boston Terrier breed biography.

Cocker Spaniel

The merry and frolicsome Cocker Spaniel, with his big, dreamy eyes and impish personality, is one of the world’s best-loved breeds. They were developed as hunting dogs, but Cockers gained their wide popularity as all-around companions. Discover more about Cocker Spaniels at AKC’s Cocker Spaniel breed biography.

Beagle

Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion, but it is also happy-go-lucky, funny, and — thanks to its pleading expression — cute. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy company and are generally easygoing. Discover more about Beagles at AKC’s Beagle breed biography.

Poodle

Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as frou frou dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) breed biography.

Border Collie

A remarkably bright workaholic, the Border Collie is an amazing dog—maybe a bit too amazing for owners without the time, energy, or means to keep it occupied. These energetic dogs will settle down for cuddle time when the workday is done. Discover more about Border Collies at AKC’s Border Collie breed biography.

Collie

The majestic Collie, thanks to a hundred years as a pop-culture star, is among the world’s most recognizable and beloved dog breeds. The full-coated “rough” Collie is the more familiar variety, but there is also a sleek “smooth” Collie. Discover more about Collies at AKC’s Collie breed biography.

Harrier

Somewhat resembling a Beagle with a gym membership, Harriers are larger, more powerful hounds than their diminutive cousin but smaller than the English Foxhound, a breed used in their development. Standing between 19 and 21 inches at the shoulder, Harriers have the timeless look of a working pack hound: a short, smart-looking coat; low-set, velvety ears; an irresistibly sweet face; and enough muscle and sinew to endure a long day's hunt. A well-built Harrier will cover ground with a smooth, efficient gait. Discover more about Harriers at AKC’s Harrier breed biography.

Belgian Malinois

The smart, confident, and versatile Belgian Malinois is a world-class worker who forges an unbreakable bond with his human partner. To deny a Mal activity and the pleasure of your company is to deprive him of his very reasons for being. Discover more about Belgian Malinois at AKC’s Belgian Malinois breed biography.

Siberian Husky

The graceful, medium-sized Siberian Husky’s almond-shaped eyes can be either brown or blue and sometimes one of each and convey a keen but amiable and even mischievous expression. Quick and nimble-footed, Siberians are known for their powerful but seemingly effortless gait. Tipping the scales at no more than 60 pounds, they are noticeably smaller and lighter than their burly cousin, the Alaskan Malamute. As born pack dogs, they enjoy family life and get on well with other dogs. The Sibes’ innate friendliness renders them indifferent watch dogs. These are energetic dogs who can’t resist chasing small animals, so secure room to run is a must. An attractive feature of the breed: Sibes are naturally clean, with little doggy odor. Discover more about Siberian Huskies at AKC’s Siberian Husky breed biography.

Chinook

Tawny-coated, no-frills Chinooks are muscular and substantial, with males standing as high as 26 inches at the shoulder. Chinooks were conceived as dual-purpose haulers, with the power of freighting dogs and the speed of sled racers. They are the picture of stouthearted dignity, with a kindly twinkle in their dark, almond eyes. Chinooks are calm, people-oriented dogs with a special feel for children. They are trainable workers who aim to please. Sledding, carting, obedience, agility, search-and-rescue work, and herding are a few pursuits they've mastered. Chinooks are not particularly busy dogs, but they need consistent exercise to stay in proper condition. Discover more about Chinooks at AKC’s Chinook breed biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables

• Most popular doesn’t make one breed better than another but it does reveal some fascinating insights into people, trends, demographics, and in many ways America itself.
• The French Bulldog is made for the city which might explain why it’s the number one dog in major U.S. centers from LA to New York.

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In this podcast episode, we recall the stories of the individuals who brought about great dog breeds and how some famous breeds came to be named for individuals.

The world’s beloved dog breeds are the product of careful, patient breeding by many people over many years. But, occasionally, a great breed is the product of years of painstaking work by an individual. Some of these people are fondly remembered by generations of dog fanciers. Others are forgotten and some live on through their canine namesakes. They are the hobbyists, scientists, even tax collectors whose purpose-bred dogs make the world a better place. This is a short history of how some dogs got their names.

Bonafide Bits:

• In the early 1950s, a Doberman Pinscher named Storm won Westminster’s Best in Show, two years in a row.
• The Gordon Setter was among the breeds recognized when the AKC was founded in 1884.
• Hollywood elites Humphrey Bogart, Gary Cooper, and Cary Grant all kept Sealyham Terriers.
• The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is the only breed named after a fictional character.
• North Carolina’s state dog, the Plott Hound, was bred to be a big game hunter.
• Sir Edwin Landseer’s painting ‘Alpine Mastiffs Reanimating a Distressed Traveler’ hangs in the AKC Museum of the Dog.

Featured Breeds:

Doberman Pinscher * Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind’s noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world’s finest protection dogs. Discover more about Doberman Pinschers at AKC’s Doberman Pinscher Breed Biography.

Manchester Terrier

• The Manchester Terrier is named after the English city where much of the breed’s early development took place. Sleek, racy dogs who possess a terrier’s ratting instinct and the graceful contours of coursing hounds, Manchesters are spirited, bright, and athletic. They combine the streamlined grace of a coursing hound and the instincts of a fearless rat terrier. These racy dogs come in two size varieties: Standard (not exceeding 22 pounds) and Toy (not exceeding 12 pounds). Discover more about Manchester Terriers at AKC’s Manchester Terrier Breed Biography.

German Pinscher

• The sleek, no-frills German Pinscher is among Germany’s oldest breeds and the prototype of other pinscher breeds. This energetic, super-intelligent dog was at first used as a rat catcher but can be trained for all types of canine work. Discover more about German Pinschers at AKC’s German Pinscher Breed Biography.

Rottweiler

• The Rottweiler is a robust working breed of great strength descended from the mastiffs of the Roman legions. A gentle playmate and protector within the family circle, the Rottie observes the outside world with a self-assured aloofness. Discover more about Rottweilers at AKC’s Rottweiler Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

• There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Yorkshire Terrier

• Beneath the dainty, glossy, floor-length coat of a Yorkshire Terrier beats the heart of a feisty, old-time terrier. Yorkies earned their living as ratters in mines and mills long before they became the beribboned lapdogs of Victorian ladies. Discover more about Yorkshire Terriers at AKC’s Yorkshire Terrier Breed Biography.

Maltese

• The tiny Maltese, “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” has been sitting in the lap of luxury since the Bible was a work in progress. Famous for their show-stopping, floor-length coat, Maltese are playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions. Discover more about Malteses at AKC’s Maltese Breed Biography.

Parson Russell Terrier

• The Parson Russell Terrier is bold and clever, swift enough to run with horses and fearless enough to dig in and flush a fox from his lair. Independent problem-solvers, PRTs can have their own ideas on how to go about things. Discover more about Parson Russell Terriers at AKC’s Parson Russell Terrier Breed Biography.

Russell Terrier

• Upbeat, lively, inquisitive, and friendly, the jaunty Russell Terrier was developed by England’s “Sporting Parson” for use in foxhunts. The adorable Russell Terrier looks like a plush toy come to life but is an eager, tireless working terrier. Discover more about Russell Terriers at AKC’s Russell Terrier Breed Biography.

Gordon Setter

• The Gordon Setter, the black avenger of the Highlands, is a substantial bird dog named for a Scottish aristocrat. Athletic and outdoorsy, Gordons are bold, confident, and resolute in the field, and sweetly affectionate by the fireside. Discover more about Gordon Setters at AKC’s Gordon Setter Breed Biography.

English Setter

• The English Setter is a medium-sized sporting dog of sweet temper and show-stopping good looks. It is one of the AKC’s four British setters created to work on the distinctly different terrains of England, Ireland, and Scotland. Discover more about English Setters at AKC’s English Setter Breed Biography.

Bloodhound

• The world-famous “Sleuth Hound” does one thing better than any creature on earth: find people who are lost or hiding. An off-duty Bloodhound is among the canine kingdom’s most docile citizens, but he’s relentless and stubborn on a scent. Discover more about Bloodhounds at AKC’s Bloodhound Breed Biography.

Sealyham Terrier

• The Sealyham Terrier is brave and spirited, but not as spiky as smaller terriers. These sturdy, outgoing companions are recognized by their “fall,” the mass of hair covering the forehead. Sealy fans enjoy their dog’s sly sense of humor. Discover more about Sealyham Terriers at AKC’s Sealyham Terrier Breed Biography.

Golden Retriever

• The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

• The unique-looking Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a tough but dignified little exterminator. Sturdily built for the rigors of farm life, they will agreeably adapt to city living. Dandies are compact companions blessed with a big personality. Discover more about Dandie Dinmont Terriers at AKC’s Dandie Dinmont Terrier Breed Biography.

Irish Wolfhound

• The calm, dignified, and kindly Irish Wolfhound is the tallest of all AKC breeds. Once fearless big-game hunters capable of dispatching a wolf in single combat, Wolfhounds today are the most serene and agreeable of companions. Discover more about Irish Wolfhounds at AKC’s Irish Wolfhound Breed Biography.

Cesky Terrier

• The Cesky Terrier, national dog of the Czech Republic, is a clever and adventurous playmate for kids and an eager walking buddy for the folks. They are tenacious at work, but a little more laid back and tractable than the usual terrier. Discover more about Cesky Terriers at AKC’s Cesky Terrier Breed Biography.

Plott Hound

• The Plott Hound, a hound with a curious name and a unique history, is a rugged, relentless hunting dog who is a mellow gentleman at home but fearless, implacable, and bold at work. This eye-catching scenthound is North Carolina’s state dog. Discover more about Plott Hounds at AKC’s Plott Hound Breed Biography.

Saint Bernard

• The Saint Bernard does not rank very high in AKC registrations, but the genial giant of the Swiss Alps is nonetheless among the world’s most famous and beloved breeds. Saints are famously watchful, patient, and careful with children. Discover more about Saint Bernards at AKC’s Saint Bernard Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• When the Romans first beheld the Irish Wolfhound they were wonderstruck.
• The world’s beloved dog breeds are the product of careful, patient breeding by many people over many years.
• The Dandie Dinmont Terrier is the only dog breed named after a fictional character.

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In this podcast episode, we tour the story of canine warriors and how after thousands of years they are only now starting to get the respect and attention they deserve.

From helping Roman legions break through enemy lines to protecting U.S. military forces in Vietnam, dogs have played an integral part in human warfare. Their keen sense of smell, ability to detect the slightest movements, and their undying loyalty has made them invaluable in conflict-burdened battle scenes around the world. Let’s look at the brave breeds who have saved countless human lives.

Bonafide Bits:

• Romans attached vats of burning oil to the backs of the now-extinct Molossus breed to break through enemy lines
• Border Collies are the product of old Roman dogs and Viking spitzes bred for herding in the rocky highlands of Scotland
• In 1884, Germany established the first military school for training war dogs
• In 1908, the AKC recognized the Doberman Pinscher and the German Shepherd Dog breeds
• AKC judge Ernest Loeb and his German Shepherd Dog left Hitler’s Germany to win Best of Breed at the Westminster Dog Show
• The legendary Marine Devil Dog unit consisted of three German Shepherd Dogs and twenty-one Doberman Pinschers
• Four thousand dogs served the United States military during the Vietnam War. Of those, 350 were killed in action and less than 200 returned home

Featured Breeds:

Saluki

• Among the world’s oldest breeds, the slim but rugged Saluki was the hunting hound of kings for thousands of years. Salukis are swift and agile sprinters who love a good chase. They make gentle, dignified, and independent but loyal pets. Discover more about Salukis at AKC’s Saluki Breed Biography.

Cane Corso

• Smart, trainable, and of noble bearing, the assertive and confident Cane Corso is a peerless protector. The Corso’s lineage goes back to ancient Roman times, and the breed’s name roughly translates from Latin as “bodyguard-dog.” Discover more about Cane Corsos at AKC’s Cane Corso Breed Biography.

Neapolitan Mastiff

• The Neapolitan Mastiff is a huge, powerful guarder whose astounding appearance has intimidated intruders since the days of ancient Rome. Wary with strangers, the profusely wrinkled Mastino is sweet, placid, and steady among loved ones. Discover more about Neapolitan Mastiffs at AKC’s Neapolitan Mastiff Breed Biography.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

• The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large, immensely strong worker famous for a dense coat of striking black, red, and white markings. Dependable and faithful Swissies earned their feed as herders, drafters, and all-around pasture dogs. Discover more about Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs at AKC’s Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Breed Biography.

Border Collie

• A remarkably bright workaholic, the Border Collie is an amazing dog—maybe a bit too amazing for owners without the time, energy, or means to keep it occupied. These energetic dogs will settle down for cuddle time when the workday is done. Discover more about Border Collies at AKC’s Border Collie Breed Biography.

Icelandic Sheepdog

• The Icelandic Sheepdog, Iceland’s only native dog breed, is a charmingly friendly and faithful all-around herder of small-to-medium size. A densely coated Nordic spitz-type breed, Icelandic Sheepdogs are enthusiastically devoted to their humans. Discover more about Icelandic Sheepdogs at AKC’s Icelandic Sheepdog Breed Biography.

Doberman Pinscher

• Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind’s noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world’s finest protection dogs. Discover more about Doberman Pinschers at AKC’s Doberman Pinscher Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

• There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Boxer

• Loyalty, affection, intelligence, work ethic, and good looks: Boxers are the whole doggy package. Bright and alert, sometimes silly, but always courageous, the Boxer has been among America’s most popular dog breeds for a very long time. Discover more about Boxers at AKC’s Boxer Breed Biography.

Belgian Sheepdog

• The Belgian Sheepdog is a highly trainable herder whose versatility and intelligence is the stuff of canine legend. This is a breed built for hard work and plenty of it. These sensitive souls crave human companionship and abhor neglect. Discover more about Belgian Sheepdogs at AKC’s Belgian Sheepdog Breed Biography.

Giant Schnauzer

• The Giant Schnauzer is a larger and more powerful version of the Standard Schnauzer, and he should, as the breed standard says, be a “bold and valiant figure of a dog.” Great intelligence and loyalty make him a stellar worker and companion. Discover more about Giant Schnauzers at AKC’s Giant Schnauzer Breed Biography.

Collie

• The majestic Collie, thanks to a hundred years as a pop-culture star, is among the world’s most recognizable and beloved dog breeds. The full-coated “rough” Collie is the more familiar variety, but there is also a sleek “smooth” Collie. Discover more about Collies at AKC’s Collie Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• It’s a testament to both that the Viet Cong put a bounty on both dogs and their military handlers.
• Dobermans were ideal scouts because of their ability to distinguish among various scents. They could detect body odor 100 yards away.
• Roman occupation influenced every aspect of British life, including dog breeding.

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In this podcast episode, we tour a couple of centuries of presidential dogs, the canine confidants of our Commanders-in-Chief.

America truly is the land of opportunity. Just ask the lucky dogs who went from rags to riches solely from being in the right place, on the side of the road, at the right time. Dogs have been a welcome presence in the White House since the time of George Washington.

For an in-person tour through Presidential pups, visit the AKC Museum of the Dog in New York. The Museum’s Presidential Dogs exhibit opens to the public on September 8, 2020.

Bonafide Bits:

• George Washington was a dog lover and a serious breeder
• Warren G. Harding’s Airedale Terrier, Laddie Boy, was featured in thousands of press stories
• Franklin Delano Roosevelt’s Scottish Terrier, Fala, was mentioned in the President’s speech to labor leaders
• George H. W. Bush’s English Springer Spaniel, Millie, became a best-selling author
• Barack Obama gifted his daughters a Portuguese Water Dog puppy after winning the Presidential election

Featured Breeds:

American Foxhound

American Foxhounds are good-natured, low-maintenance hounds who get on well with kids, dogs, even cats, but come with special considerations for prospective owners. They are closely associated with Revolutionary heroes and the rolling estates of old Virginia. Discover more about American Foxhounds at AKC’s American Foxhound Breed Biography.

Briard

The Briard packs so much loyalty, love, and spirit into its ample frame that it’s often described as a "heart wrapped in fur." The dashing good looks of these muscular Frenchmen radiate a distinct aura of Gallic romance and elegance. Discover more about Briards at AKC’s Briard Breed Biography.

Airedale Terrier

His size, strength, and unflagging spirit have earned the Airedale Terrier the nickname “The King of Terriers.” The Airedale stands among the world’s most versatile dog breeds and has distinguished himself as a hunter, athlete, and companion. Discover more about Airedale Terriers at AKC’s Airedale Terrier Breed Biography.

Bullmastiff

Fearless at work, docile at home, the Bullmastiff is a large, muscular guarder who pursued and held poachers in Merry Old England—merry, we suppose, for everyone but poachers. Bullmastiffs are the result of Bulldog and Mastiff crosses. Discover more about Bullmastiffs at AKC’s Bullmastiff Breed Biography.

Irish Setter

The Irish Setter is a high-spirited gundog known for grace, swiftness, and a flashy red coat. They are famously good family dogs: sweet-tempered companions for the folks, and rollicking playmates and tennis-ball fetchers for the children. Discover more about Irish Setters at AKC’s Irish Setter Breed Biography.

English Setter

The English Setter is a medium-sized sporting dog of sweet temper and show-stopping good looks. It is one of the AKC’s four British setters created to work on the distinctly different terrains of England, Ireland, and Scotland. Discover more about English Setters at AKC’s English Setter Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Great Dane

The easygoing Great Dane, the mighty “Apollo of Dogs,” is a total joy to live with—but owning a dog of such imposing size, weight, and strength is a commitment not to be entered into lightly. This breed is indeed great, but not a Dane. Discover more about Great Danes at AKC’s Great Dane Breed Biography.

Scottish Terrier

A solidly compact dog of vivid personality, the Scottish Terrier is an independent, confident companion of high spirits. Scotties have a dignified, almost-human character. Their terrier persistence has earned the breed the nickname “the Diehard.” Discover more about Scottish Terriers at AKC’s Scottish Terrier Breed Biography.

Cocker Spaniel

The merry and frolicsome Cocker Spaniel, with his big, dreamy eyes and impish personality, is one of the world’s best-loved breeds. They were developed as hunting dogs, but Cockers gained their wide popularity as all-around companions. Discover more about Cocker Spaniels at AKC’s Cocker Spaniel Breed Biography.

Beagle

Not only is the Beagle an excellent hunting dog and loyal companion it is also happy-go-lucky, funny, and—thanks to its pleading expression—cute. They were bred to hunt in packs, so they enjoy company and are generally easygoing. Discover more about Beagles at AKC’s Beagle Breed Biography.

Golden Retriever

The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

English Springer Spaniel

The English Springer Spaniel is a sweet-faced, lovable bird dog of great energy, stamina, and brains. Sport hunters cherish the duality of working Springers: handsome, mannerly pets during the week, and trusty hunting buddies on weekends. Discover more about English Springer Spaniels at AKC’s English Springer Spaniel Breed Biography.

Portuguese Water Dog

The bright and biddable Portuguese Water Dog was bred to be an all-around fisherman’s helper. The robust, medium-sized body is covered by a coat of tight, low-shedding curls. They are eager and athletic companions built for water work. Discover more about Portuguese Water Dogs at AKC’s Portuguese Water Dog Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

Presidential pups have had popularity ratings their Commanders-in-Chief could only dream of.

Franklin Delano Roosevelt had a Scottish Terrier named Murray the Outlaw of Falahill, popularly known as Fala.

From bed to shed, America is the land of canine opportunity.

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In this podcast episode, we uncover the backstories of how magnificent working-class dogs and their pampered brethren helped shape the story of humans.

For thousands of years, different dog breeds have been specifically trained and kept based on the needs of the households they occupied. To protect their food supply and livelihoods, peasants and farmers required dogs to maintain flocks, guard the house, and kill rodents while lofty upper-class citizens kept sizable kennels of hunting, toy, and companion dogs to show their stature in society. Many aristocrats even included their beloved pets in their commissioned portraiture and art collections. Let’s take a gander at the former predators who could drive geese to market and those who could poshly pose for a painting.

Bonafide Bits:

• The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog, or Swissie, is a descendant of the war dogs used by Julius Caesar’s armies and can pull thousands of pounds.
• Just the scent of urine from the Great Pyrenees is enough to keep predators away.
• Mary Queen of Scots thought Maltese Terriers were heads above the rest.
• Queen Victoria owned up to 35 Pomeranians at once.
• Pembroke Welsh Corgis are bred to herd cattle and drive geese to market.
• Chaser, a Border Collie memorized more than 1,000 different toy names.

Featured Breeds: Border Collie

• A remarkably bright workaholic, the Border Collie is an amazing dog—maybe a bit too amazing for owners without the time, energy, or means to keep it occupied. These energetic dogs will settle down for cuddle time when the workday is done. Discover more about Border Collies at AKC’s Border Collie Breed Biography.

Greater Swiss Mountain Dog

• The Greater Swiss Mountain Dog is a large, immensely strong worker famous for a dense coat of striking black, red, and white markings. Dependable and faithful Swissies earned their feed as herders, drafters, and all-around pasture dogs. Discover more about Greater Swiss Mountain Dogs at AKC’s Greater Swiss Mountain Dog Breed Biography.

Great Pyrenees

• The Great Pyrenees is a large, thickly coated, and immensely powerful working dog bred to deter sheep-stealing wolves and other predators on snowy mountaintops. Pyrs today are mellow companions and vigilant guardians of home and family. Discover more about Great Pyrenees at AKC’s Great Pyrenees Breed Biography.

Pyrenean Shepherd

• Enthusiastic, mischievous, and whip-smart, the Pyrenean Shepherd is an indefatigable herder descended from ancient sheepdogs of the Pyrenees mountains. Tough and sinewy Pyr Sheps come in “rough-faced” and “smooth-faced” coat varieties. Discover more about Pyrenean Shepherds at AKC’s Pyrenean Shepherd Breed Biography.

Shih Tzu

• That face! Those big dark eyes looking up at you with that sweet expression! It’s no surprise that Shih Tzu owners have been so delighted with this little “Lion Dog” for a thousand years. Where Shih Tzus go, giggles and mischief follow. Discover more about Shih Tzus at AKC’s Shih Tzu Breed Biography.

Maltese

• The tiny Maltese, “Ye Ancient Dogge of Malta,” has been sitting in the lap of luxury since the Bible was a work in progress. Famous for their show-stopping, floor-length coat, Maltese are playful, charming, and adaptable toy companions. Discover more about Malteses at AKC’s Maltese Breed Biography.

Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

• The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel wears his connection to British history in his breed’s name. Cavaliers are the best of two worlds, combining the gentle attentiveness of a toy breed with the verve and athleticism of a sporting spaniel. Discover more about Cavalier King Charles Spaniels at AKC’s Cavalier King Charles Spaniel Breed Biography.

Italian Greyhound

• A true Greyhound in miniature, the elegant Italian Greyhound is an alert, playful, and highly affectionate toy companion. IGs make decorative couch dogs, but at heart, they are flash-and-dash coursing hounds with an instinct for pursuit. Discover more about Italian Greyhounds at AKC’s Italian Greyhound Breed Biography.

Pomeranian

• The tiny Pomeranian, long a favorite of royals and commoners alike, has been called the ideal companion. The glorious coat, smiling, foxy face, and vivacious personality have helped make the Pom one of the world's most popular toy breeds. Discover more about Pomeranians at AKC’s Pomeranian Breed Biography.

Briard

• The Briard packs so much loyalty, love, and spirit into its ample frame that it's often described as a "heart wrapped in fur." The dashing good looks of these muscular Frenchmen radiate a distinct aura of Gallic romance and elegance. Discover more about Briards at AKC’s Briard Breed Biography.

Beauceron

• The Beauceron is imposing and powerful, but also remarkably smart, spirited, and a versatile herder—imagine a Border Collie’s brain in a 100-pound body. They are especially beloved by women as a dashing but sensitive companion and protector. Discover more about Beaucerons at AKC’s Beauceron Breed Biography.

Bouvier des Flandres

• They don’t build ’em like this anymore. Burly and barrel-chested, the tousle-coated dog of Flandres is from a time and place where a dog had to work like … well, a dog. These smart and steady all-purpose workers make excellent watchdogs. Discover more about Bouvier des Flandres’ at AKC’s Bouvier des Flandres Breed Biography.

Berger Picard

• The Berger Picard is a lanky herding dog of strong bone and sturdy build. Picards spent centuries as take-charge independent problem-solvers, so early socialization and positive training are necessary to cope with their stubborn streak. Discover more about Berger Picards at AKC’s Berger Picard Breed Biography.

Belgian Malinois

• The smart, confident, and versatile Belgian Malinois is a world-class worker who forges an unbreakable bond with his human partner. To deny a Mal activity and the pleasure of your company is to deprive him of his very reasons for being. Discover more about Belgian Malinois’ at AKC’s Belgian Malinois Breed Biography.

Belgian Sheepdog

• The Belgian Sheepdog is a highly trainable herder whose versatility and intelligence is the stuff of canine legend. This is a breed built for hard work and plenty of it. These sensitive souls crave human companionship and abhor neglect. Discover more about Belgian Sheepdogs at AKC’s Belgian Sheepdog Breed Biography.

Belgian Tervuren

• The elegant, agile Belgian Tervuren is a bright and self-assured herding dog of medium size, known to be affectionate and possessive with loved ones. Lots of hard work and challenging play is heaven for this tireless, do-it-all dog. Discover more about Belgian Tervurens at AKC’s Belgian Tervuren Breed Biography.

Belgian Laekenois

• Strong, agile, and full of life, the Belgian Laekenois (pronounced "Lak-in-wah") is one of four native dogs of Belgium. Although similar in body and temperament to the Malinois, Shepherd, and Tervuren, the Laekenois differs in coat color, texture, and length, as well as region of origin. Discover more about Belgian Laekenois’ at AKC’s Belgian Laekenois Breed Biography.

Borzoi

• Among the most impressively beautiful of all dogs, the aristocratic Borzoi is cherished for his calm, agreeable temperament. In full stride, he is a princely package of strength, grace, and glamour flying by at 35 to 40 miles per hour. Discover more about Borzois at AKC’s Borzoi Breed Biography.

English Foxhound

• The English Foxhound is a substantial galloping hound of great stamina. His long legs are straight as a gatepost, and just as sturdy. The back is perfectly level. And the chest is very deep, “girthing” as much as 31 inches on a hound measuring 24 inches at the shoulder, ensuring plenty of lung power for a grueling day’s hunt. Discover more about English Foxhounds at AKC’s English Foxhound Breed Biography.

Wire Fox Terrier

• The Wire Fox Terrier breed standard says they should be “on the tip-toe of expectation at the slightest provocation.” Once a mainstay of traditional British fox hunts, today’s Wire is a handsome and amusing companion and master show dog. Discover more about Wire Fox Terriers at AKC’s Wire Fox Terrier Breed Biography.

Samoyed

• The Samoyed is a substantial but graceful dog standing anywhere from 19 to a bit over 23 inches at the shoulder. Powerful, tireless, with a thick all-white coat impervious to cold—Sammies are perfectly beautiful but highly functional. Even their most delightful feature, a perpetual smile, has a practical function: The upturned corners of the mouth keep Sammies from drooling, preventing icicles from forming on the face. Discover more about Samoyeds at AKC’s Samoyed Breed Biography.

Labrador Retriever

• The sweet-faced, lovable Labrador Retriever is America’s most popular dog breed. Labs are friendly, outgoing, and high-spirited companions who have more than enough affection to go around for a family looking for a medium-to-large dog. Discover more about Labrador Retrievers at AKC’s Labrador Retriever Breed Biography.

Pembroke Welsh Corgi

• Among the most agreeable of all small house dogs, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a strong, athletic, and lively little herder who is affectionate and companionable without being needy. They are one of the world's most popular herding breeds. Discover more about Pembroke Welsh Corgis at AKC’s Pembroke Welsh Corgi Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Did you know Pembroke Welsh Corgis and Siberian Huskies are cousins?
• Many of today’s most intelligent, strongest, and most responsive dogs descend from breeds taught to help peasants, hunters, and the poor working class.
• Roman iconography tells us toy dog breeds were a sign of stature.

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In this podcast episode, we will be exploring the ebb and flow of different dog breeds throughout history and what some extraordinary people have done (and are currently doing) to bring breeds back from the brink.

Ever since the first human domesticated the first canine, our species have been forever intricately linked. Throughout history, dogs have lessened our load, protected our assets, and been faithful companions. So, it’s only fair we return the favor. But, when a purpose-bred dog breed has fulfilled its purpose, who helps preserve four-legged family lines? The champions of endangered breeds, that’s who. They create breed awareness, fund breeding programs, and even collect “seeds” to keep beloved breeds from going extinct. Find out more about the dedicated cynophiles who have kept their favorite breeds’ extinction at bay.

Bonafide Bits:

• In 1949, Frida Kahlo affectionately includes her beloved Señor Xolotl in her poignant “The Love Embrace of the Universe, the Earth, Myself, Diego, and Señor Xolotl.”
• In 1955, Archduchess Felix of Austria funded an expedition led by Norman Pelham Wright to find the endangered Xoloitzcuintli for breeding purposes.
• Food shortages and atomic bombs almost wiped out Akitas.
• During World War II, Great Pyrenees hauled artillery over the Pyrenees mountains to aid French soldiers.
• The Red Army of communist China exacerbated the decline of the Chinese Shar-Pei.
• There are fewer than 800 Otterhounds left, making them rarer than the giant panda.

Featured Breeds:

Xoloitzcuintli

The 3,000-year-old Xoloitzcuintli (pronounced "show-low-eats-QUEENT-lee"), the ancient Aztec dog of the gods, is today a loving companion and vigilant watchdog. The alert and loyal Xolo comes in three sizes, and either hairless or coated varieties. Discover more about Xoloitzcuintlis at AKC’s Xoloitzcuintli Dog Breed Biography.

Weimaraner

The Weimaraner, Germany’s sleek and swift “Gray Ghost,” is beloved by hunters and pet owners alike for their friendliness, obedience, and beauty. They enjoy exercise, and plenty of it, along with lots of quality time with their humans. Discover more about Weimaraners at AKC’s Weimaraner Breed Biography.

Otterhound

Big, boisterous, and affectionate, the Otterhound was bred in medieval England for the now-outlawed activity of otter hunting. This scarce breed is known for his dense shaggy coat, webbed feet, acute sense of smell, and affinity for swimming. Discover more about Otterhounds at AKC’s Otterhound Breed Biography.

Leonberger

The Leonberger is a lush-coated giant of German origin. They have a gentle nature and serene patience and they relish the companionship of the whole family. Discover more about Leonbergers at AKC’s Leonberger Breed Biography.

Akita

Akitas are muscular, double-coated dogs of ancient Japanese lineage famous for their dignity, courage, and loyalty. In their native land, they are venerated as family protectors and symbols of good health, happiness, and long life. Discover more about Akitas at AKC’s Akita Breed Biography.

Polish Lowland Sheepdog

A shaggy-coated herding dog who thrives on exercise and hard work, the Polish Lowland Sheepdog is clever, confident, and a bit stubborn. Compact, alert, and adaptable, they are beloved companions and watchdogs of Polish city dwellers. Discover more about Polish Lowland Sheepdogs at AKC’s Polish Lowland Sheepdogs Breed Biography.

Great Pyrenees

The Great Pyrenees is a large, thickly coated, and immensely powerful working dog bred to deter sheep-stealing wolves and other predators on snowy mountaintops. Pyrs today are mellow companions and vigilant guardians of home and family. Discover more about Great Pyrenees at AKC’s Great Pyrenees Breed Biography.

Chinese Shar-Pei

This fascinating but challenging breed of ancient pedigree is steadfastly loyal to family but standoffish with strangers. The Chinese Shar-Pei has physical characteristics that make him a one-of-a-kind companion and guardian dog. Discover more about Chinese Shar-Peis at AKC’s Chinese Shar-Pei Breed Biography.

Dandie Dinmont Terrier

The unique-looking Dandie Dinmont Terrier is a tough but dignified little exterminator. Sturdily built for the rigors of farm life, they will agreeably adapt to city living. Dandies are compact companions blessed with a big personality. Discover more about Dandie Dinmont Terriers at AKC’s Dandie Dinmont Terrier Breed Biography.

Komondor

A powerfully large Hungarian flock guardian covered in profuse white cords from head to tail, the Komondor is among the world’s most recognizable breeds. The independent and protective Kom requires a firm, experienced hand at training. Discover more about Komondors at AKC’s Komondor Breed Biography.

Sussex Spaniel

"Placid, affectionate, even-tempered, true-blue, loyal" — all are words used to describe the Sussex Spaniel, a slow-but-steady hunter, and congenial house dog. His frowning expression is delightfully at odds with a typically cheerful nature. Discover more about Sussex Spaniels at AKC’s Sussex Spaniel Breed Biography.

For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

The Otterhound is rarer than the giant panda. Right now there are fewer than 800 Otterhounds globally.

Dog breed extinction can happen for many reasons, but it is typically linked to societal disruption and upheaval.

Fossilized remains of a Great Pyrenees have been dated back to 1000 BC.

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This podcast episode we’ll be looking at some of the biggest canine stars in showbiz and their lasting cultural impact in Hollywood and throughout our culture. It is part of the Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives series. Host Bud Boccone hunts down information and faithfully shares it in this fun and frisky format.

The Dog Star, Canis major, may be the brightest star in the sky, but it pales in comparison to the dog stars of the big screen. When Timmy fell down the well, audiences knew Lassie would come to his rescue, and when Pongo prevailed over Cruella, movie fans cheered. For more than a century, humans have been paying to watch canine conundrums and hounds be heroes. Some movies lead to an uptick of ownership of a particular breed, based on a character a dog played in a film. Listen in to discover why humans watch dogs.

Bonafide Bits:

• • In 1921, Strongheart, a German Shepherd Dog, played the role of Flash in the Hollywood movie, The Silent Call.
  • Rin Tin Tin starred in 27 motion pictures, and The Adventures of Rin Tin Tin was a popular radio program.
  • The real name of the forever famous Toto from the Wizard of Oz is Terry.
  • Unfortunately, Walt Disney’s movie, 101 Dalmatians made Dalmatians America’s fad-dog.
  • Christopher Guest’s, Best in Show is a mockumentary that portrays dogs as dignified and handlers as disobedient.

Featured Breeds: German Shepherd Dog

• • There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Dog Breed Biography.

Collie

• • The Collie is a lithe, strong, responsive, active dog, carrying no useless timber, standing naturally straight and firm. The deep, moderately wide chest shows strength, the sloping shoulders and well-bent hocks indicate speed and grace, and the face shows high intelligence. The Collie presents an impressive, proud picture of true balance, each part being in harmonious proportion to every other part and to the whole. Discover more about Collies at AKC’s Collie Breed Biography.

Staffordshire Bull Terrier

• • From his brawling past, the muscular but agile Staffordshire Bull Terrier retains the traits of courage and tenacity. Happily, good breeding transformed this former gladiator into a mild, playful companion with a special feel for kids. Discover more about Staffordshire Bull Terriers at AKC’s Staffordshire Bull Terrier Breed Biography.

Smooth Fox Terrier

• • The Smooth Fox Terrier, called the “gentleman of the terrier world,” is a lively, gregarious terrier with a devil-may-care attitude, originally developed for Britain’s traditional foxhunts. Discover more about Smooth Fox Terriers at AKC’s Smooth Fox Terrier Breed Biography.

Standard Schnauzer

• • The bold, bewhiskered Standard Schnauzer is a high-spirited farm dog from Germany. They are the sometimes-willful but ever-reliable medium-sized members of the Schnauzer family of breeds. The Standard’s sporty look is a canine classic. Discover more about Standard Schnauzers at AKC’s Standard Schnauzer Breed Biography.

Wire Fox Terrier

• • The Wire Fox Terrier breed standard says they should be “on the tip-toe of expectation at the slightest provocation.” Once a mainstay of traditional British fox hunts, today’s Wire is a handsome and amusing companion and master show dog. Discover more about Wire Fox Terriers at AKC’s Wire Fox Terrier Breed Biography.

Cairn Terrier

• • Cairn Terriers are happy, busy little earth dogs originally bred to fearlessly root out foxes and other small, furred prey in the rocky Scottish countryside. Curious and alert, Cairns like having a place where they can explore and dig. Discover more about Cairn Terriers at AKC’s Cairn Terrier Breed Biography.

Dalmatian

• • The dignified Dalmatian, dogdom’s citizen of the world, is famed for his spotted coat and unique job description. During their long history, these “coach dogs” have accompanied the horse-drawn rigs of nobles, gypsies, and firefighters. Discover more about Dalmatians at AKC’s Dalmatian Breed Biography.

Bloodhounds

• • The world-famous “Sleuth Hound” does one thing better than any creature on earth: find people who are lost or hiding. An off-duty Bloodhound is among the canine kingdom’s most docile citizens, but he’s relentless and stubborn on a scent. Discover more about Bloodhounds at AKC’s Bloodhound Breed Biography.
• • For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• • For the studios, accustomed to the foibles of high-priced divas and scandal-prone, egocentric humans, reliable, obedient ‘dog stars’ were manna from heaven.
  • Every type of dog needs just the right owner.
  • Which furry film star is your favorite?

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This podcast episode highlights centuries of purpose breeding that allows certain dogs to be perfectly adapted for city bars, parks, and cramped studio apartments. It is part of the Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives series. Host Bud Boccone hunts down information and faithfully shares it in this fun and frisky format.

History is still unclear as to whether a human chose to relocate an English Bulldog in France or if the Bulldog got a whiff of the Moulin Rouge in Paris and fled the English countryside for a taste of the avant-garde. Nonetheless, some dogs have been purposefully bred as companions for humans who desire to live amidst the hustle and bustle of the city. It’s up to their human companions to give dogs a comfortable lifestyle but with proper care, any dog can be a city dog.

Bonafide Bits:

• English Bulldogs were bred with jaws strong enough to pin a bull to the ground.
• In 1897, Toulouse-Lautrec included the portrait of a French Bulldog when he captured a saucy Paris night scene.
• Several Dali Lamas bred Lhasa Apsos in Buddhist monasteries.
• In 1893, the AKC officially recognized the distinctly American Boston Terrier.
• In 2018, a Great Dane was featured in New Yorker Magazine.

Featured Breeds:

Bulldog

• Kind but courageous, friendly but dignified, the Bulldog is a thick-set, low-slung, well-muscled bruiser whose “sourmug” face is the universal symbol of courage and tenacity. These docile, loyal companions adapt well to town or country. Discover more about Bulldogs at AKC’s Bulldog Breed Biography.

French Bulldog

• The one-of-a-kind French Bulldog, with his large bat ears and even disposition, is one of the world’s most popular small-dog breeds, especially among city dwellers. The Frenchie is playful, alert, adaptable, and completely irresistible. Discover more about French Bulldogs at AKC’s French Bulldog Breed Biography.

Brussels Griffon

• Tipping the scales at no more than 12 pounds, this human-like toy of complex character has enough personality for 10 ordinary dogs. A sensitive companion for discerning grownups, the Brussels Griffon is smart, devoted, and comically self-important. Discover more about Brussels Griffons at AKC’s Brussels Griffon Breed Biography.

Lhasa Apso

• The lavishly coated Lhasa Apso is a thousand-year-old breed who served as sentinels at palaces and monasteries isolated high in the Himalayas. Smart, confident, and complex, Lhasas are family comedians but regally aloof with strangers. Discover more about Lhasa Apsos at AKC’s Lhasa Apso Breed Biography.
• Havanese
• Havanese, the only dog breed native to Cuba, are cheerful little dogs with a spring in their step and a gleam in their big, brown eyes. These vivacious and sociable companions are becoming especially popular with American city dwellers. Discover more about Havanese at AKC’s Havanese Breed Biography.
• Bolognese
• A small companion breed originating in Italy, the Bolognese is a calm, faithful dog with a long, fluffy pure-white coat. They are very playful, easy-going, and love people. Discover more about Bolognese at AKC’s Bolognese Breed Biography.
• Coton de Tulear
• The Coton de Tulear, “Royal Dog of Madagascar,” is a bright, happy-go-lucky companion dog whose favorite activities include clowning, cavorting, and following their special human around the house. The Coton is small but robustly sturdy. Discover more about Coton de Tulears at AKC’s Coton de Tulear Breed Biography.

Bedlington Terrier

• Graceful terriers in sheep’s clothing, Bedlington Terriers, named for the English mining shire where they were first bred, are genial housemates, alert watchdogs, versatile athletes, and irresistibly cuddly TV-time companions. Discover more about Bedlington Terriers at AKC’s Bedlington Terrier Breed Biography.

Boston Terrier

• The Boston Terrier is a lively little companion recognized by his tight tuxedo jacket, sporty but compact body, and the friendly glow in his big, round eyes. His impeccable manners have earned him the nickname “The American Gentleman.” Discover more about Boston Terriers at AKC’s Boston Terrier Breed Biography.
• Greyhound
• The champion sprinter of dogdom, the Greyhound is a gentle, noble, and sweet-tempered companion with an independent spirit. For thousands of years, these graceful hounds have been an object of fascination for artists, poets, and kings. Discover more about Greyhounds at AKC’s Greyhound Breed Biography.
• Great Dane
• The easygoing Great Dane, the mighty “Apollo of Dogs,” is a total joy to live with—but owning a dog of such imposing size, weight, and strength is a commitment not to be entered into lightly. This breed is indeed great, but not a Dane. Discover more about Great Danes at AKC’s Great Dane Breed Biography.

Leonberger

• The Leonberger is a lush-coated giant of German origin. They have a gentle nature and serene patience and they relish the companionship of the whole family. Discover more about Leonbergers at AKC’s Leonberger Breed Biography.
• For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Many companion breeds proudly bear the name of the city where they were bred. How many can you name?
• City dog breeds share a few key traits including size, intelligence, sociability, and quite often stylish hairdos.
• With proper care, any dog can be a city dog.

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This podcast episode features the surprisingly modern story of canine obedience and introduces you to the remarkable breeds who inspired it. It is part of the Down and Back: Stories From the American Kennel Club Archives series. Host Bud Boccone hunts down information and faithfully shares it in this fun and frisky format.

Today’s tale has a human element, as most of the best dog stories do. It follows the lives of Ms. Helen Whitehouse Walker and Ms. Blanche Saunders, who are recognized for legitimizing obedience trials within the AKC, popularizing poodles in the United States, and entrancing an entire nation by showcasing their dog handling skills on the road. Please enjoy this brief, yet bountiful history of humans learning new tricks from dogs and their purpose-bred traits.

Bonafide Bits:

• Poodles’ roots can be traced back to Germany where they were bred for retrieving ducks
• Munito, the famous dog franchise in Europe, was based on a dog’s ability to comprehend cues from its handler
• Breeds that excel at obedience training include Border Collie, German Shepherd Dog, Golden Retriever, and Doberman Pinscher
• Obedience is the sport of tapping into abilities for which dogs are already hard-wired
• In 1936, the American Kennel Club acknowledged Obedience as a sport

Featured Breeds: Poodle

• Forget those old stereotypes of Poodles as sissy dogs. Poodles are eager, athletic, and wickedly smart “real dogs” of remarkable versatility. The Standard, with his greater size and strength, is the best all-around athlete of the family, but all Poodles can be trained with great success. Discover more about Poodles at AKC’s Poodle (Standard) Breed Biography.

Border Collie

• The intelligence, athleticism, and trainability of Borders have a perfect outlet in agility training. Having a job to perform -- like agility, herding, or obedience work — is key to Border happiness. Amiable among friends, they may be reserved with strangers. Discover more about Border Collies at AKC’s Border Collie Breed Biography.

German Shepherd Dog

• There are many reasons why German Shepherd Dogs stand in the front rank of canine royalty, but experts say their defining attribute is character: loyalty, courage, confidence, the ability to learn commands for many tasks, and the willingness to put their life on the line in defense of loved ones. German Shepherd Dogs will be gentle family pets and steadfast guardians, but, the breed standard says, there’s a “certain aloofness that does not lend itself to immediate and indiscriminate friendships.” Discover more about German Shepherd Dogs at AKC’s German Shepherd Breed Biography.

Golden Retriever

• The Golden Retriever, an exuberant Scottish gundog of great beauty, stands among America’s most popular dog breeds. They are serious workers at hunting and fieldwork, as guides for the blind, and in search-and-rescue, enjoy obedience and other competitive events, and have an endearing love of life when not at work. Discover more about Golden Retrievers at AKC’s Golden Retriever Breed Biography.

Doberman Pinscher

• Sleek and powerful, possessing both a magnificent physique and keen intelligence, the Doberman Pinscher is one of dogkind’s noblemen. This incomparably fearless and vigilant breed stands proudly among the world’s finest protection dogs. Discover more about Doberman Pinschers at AKC’s Doberman Pinscher Breed Biography.

Newfoundland

• The massive Newfoundland is a strikingly large, powerful working dog of heavy bone and dignified bearing. The sweet-tempered Newfie is a famously good companion and has earned a reputation as a patient and watchful “nanny dog” for kids. Discover more about Newfoundlands at AKC’s Newfoundland Breed Biography.

Dachshund

• The famously long, low silhouette, ever-alert expression, and bold, vivacious personality of the Dachshund have made him a superstar of the canine kingdom. Dachshunds come in two sizes and three coat types of various colors and patterns. Discover more about Dachshunds at AKC’s Dachshund Breed Biography.
• For more information about a specific breed visit the breed’s parent club or AKC.org.

Shareables:

• Obedience begins and ends with training humans.
• Through the last half-century, there has been a renaissance in thinking about breed attributes.
• Ms. Helen Whitehouse Walker never set out to champion the Poodle but eventually became a Poodle evangelist.