Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast

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.

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 ...

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 coursi...

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 ...

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.

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