Saved From Extinction: Endangered Dog Breeds Brought Back From the Brink
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
Release Date: 08/07/2020
Fetching Phrases: The Curious Origins of Dog-Inspired Expressions
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Poodles: A Marvel of Intelligence and Versatility
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Sighthounds: Sleek, Swift, and Eternal
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Pet Loss and Grief: Paying Homage to Our Beloved Dogs
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Canine Mythbusting: Fact, Fiction, or Folklore?
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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How Dog Breeds Get Their Names (Plus, the Most Popular Dog Names of the Year)
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Small and Significant: The Enduring Dog Breeds of the Toy Group
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Leading the Way: Guiding Eyes, Ears, Noses, and Beyond (Part 2)
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Leading the Way: The History of Guide Dogs (Part 1)
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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All-American Dogs in the AKC: A Winning Combination
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
info_outlineIn 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.