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Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast

By: The American Kennel Club Inc.
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  • Summary

  • Host Bud Boccone tells the tales of breeds, dogs, and dog-loving humans who’ve shaped America (and Americans) over generations. Tapping 140 years of historical records, archival footage, oral histories, interviews, and more, Down and Back brings the stories of the sport of dogs to life as only AKC can.
    © The American Kennel Club, Inc. All rights reserved
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Episodes
  • The Golden Age of Canines: Americans Roll Over for Dogs Post-WWII

    The Golden Age of Canines: Americans Roll Over for Dogs Post-WWII
    Jun 5 2024
    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 ...
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    28 mins
  • Northern Stars: Spitz-Type Breeds and the Story of Human-Canine Cooperation

    Northern Stars: Spitz-Type Breeds and the Story of Human-Canine Cooperation
    May 22 2024
    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 ...
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    28 mins
  • Fetching Phrases: The Curious Origins of Dog-Inspired Expressions

    Fetching Phrases: The Curious Origins of Dog-Inspired Expressions
    May 8 2024
    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...
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    27 mins
World Social Sciences
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