Ask Bud: Dog Facts, Fiction, and Fun
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Bloodhounds: Super Sleuths, Heroes, and Icons
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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A Motley Crew of Canines: Meet the Non-Sporting Group
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Canine Name Game: The Wacky World of Dog Breed Misnomers
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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....
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Dogs and Divinity: Maybe It’s No Accident That “Dog” Spelled Backwards Is “God”
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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The Golden Age of Canines: Americans Roll Over for Dogs Post-WWII
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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Northern Stars: Spitz-Type Breeds and the Story of Human-Canine Cooperation
Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
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...
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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...
info_outlineIn 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.