Down and Back: AKC Dog Podcast
35 episodes - English - Latest episode: 17 days ago -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.
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Episodes
The Golden Age of Canines: Americans Roll Over for Dogs Post-WWII
June 05, 2024 07:00 - 27 minutes - 63.2 MBIn 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 ...
Northern Stars: Spitz-Type Breeds and the Story of Human-Canine Cooperation
May 22, 2024 07:00 - 28 minutes - 64.6 MBIn 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 tog...
Fetching Phrases: The Curious Origins of Dog-Inspired Expressions
May 08, 2024 07:00 - 26 minutes - 60.7 MBIn 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 do...
Poodles: A Marvel of Intelligence and Versatility
May 24, 2023 07:00 - 25 minutes - 62.9 MBIn 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 excel...
Sighthounds: Sleek, Swift, and Eternal
May 10, 2023 07:00 - 25 minutes - 62.7 MBIn 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, a...
Pet Loss and Grief: Paying Homage to Our Beloved Dogs
April 26, 2023 07:00 - 26 minutes - 64.8 MBIn 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 co...
Canine Mythbusting: Fact, Fiction, or Folklore?
April 12, 2023 07:00 - 25 minutes - 61.8 MBIn 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 ...
Naming the Beast: From Dog Breed Name Origins to Popular Everyday Pet Names
March 29, 2023 07:00 - 26 minutes - 64.8 MBIn 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 do...
How Dog Breeds Get Their Names (Plus, the Most Popular Dog Names of the Year)
March 29, 2023 07:00 - 26 minutes - 64.8 MBIn 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 do...
Small and Significant: The Enduring Dog Breeds of the Toy Group
March 15, 2023 16:00 - 24 minutes - 56.8 MBIn 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,...
Leading the Way — Part 2: Guiding Eyes, Ears, Noses, and Beyond
March 01, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 59.3 MBIn 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 a...
Leading the Way: Guiding Eyes, Ears, Noses, and Beyond (Part 2)
March 01, 2023 08:00 - 25 minutes - 59.3 MBIn 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 a...
Leading the Way — Part 1: The History of Guide Dogs
February 15, 2023 08:00 - 27 minutes - 63.5 MBIn 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 par...
Leading the Way: The History of Guide Dogs (Part 1)
February 15, 2023 08:00 - 27 minutes - 63.5 MBIn 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 par...
All-American Dogs in the AKC: A Winning Combination
October 29, 2021 07:00 - 21 minutes - 353 MBIn 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 de...
Morris & Essex: The Quintessential Dog Show
October 15, 2021 07:00 - 22 minutes - 55.6 MBIn 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 th...
Pooches Who Peddle: Dogs as Corporate Mascots
October 01, 2021 07:00 - 23 minutes - 54 MBIn 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 dramaticall...
Form Follows Function in the World of Dogs
September 17, 2021 07:00 - 23 minutes - 58.5 MBIn 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 e...
The Dogs of 9/11 and Beyond
September 03, 2021 07:00 - 23 minutes - 56.8 MBIn 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...
Dogs: Stars of Myth, Legend, and Folklore
August 20, 2021 06:00 - 25 minutes - 62.3 MBIn 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 storie...
Ask Bud: How Does a Dog Breed Become Recognized by AKC?
August 06, 2021 06:00 - 23 minutes - 57.2 MBIn 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 t...
Top Dogs (and Underdogs): Most Popular Dog Breeds in America
July 23, 2021 06:00 - 22 minutes - 54.1 MBIn 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 bre...
What’s in a Name? The Eponymous Breeders Who Brought Great Dogs to Life
October 02, 2020 06:00 - 23 minutes - 62.8 MBIn 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 ca...
What’s in a Name? The Eponymous Individuals Who Bred Canine Companions
October 02, 2020 06:00 - 23 minutes - 53.1 MBIn 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 ca...
War Dogs: The History of Hounds in Hostile Territory
September 18, 2020 06:00 - 24 minutes - 55.2 MBIn 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....
War Dogs: The History of Dogs in Hostile Territory
September 18, 2020 06:00 - 24 minutes - 64.9 MBIn 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....
Hounds of State: Canine Sidekicks of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
September 04, 2020 06:00 - 25 minutes - 68.5 MBIn 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 ...
Stately Canine Sidekicks of 1600 Pennsylvania Ave.
September 04, 2020 06:00 - 25 minutes - 68.5 MBIn 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 ...
Working-Class Heroes & Upper-Class Companions
August 21, 2020 07:00 - 25 minutes - 58.6 MBIn 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,...
Working-Class Dog Heroes & Upper-Class Canine Companions
August 21, 2020 07:00 - 25 minutes - 68.3 MBIn 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,...
Saved From Extinction: Endangered Breeds Brought Back From the Brink
August 07, 2020 07:00 - 23 minutes - 52.7 MBIn 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 br...
Saved From Extinction: Endangered Dog Breeds Brought Back From the Brink
August 07, 2020 07:00 - 23 minutes - 62.3 MBIn 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 br...
Hollywood Hounds: Transforming American Dog Culture Through Films
July 24, 2020 07:00 - 25 minutes - 58.8 MBThis 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 t...
Uniquely Urban: Dogs Bred for Life in the City
July 10, 2020 07:30 - 25 minutes - 44.4 MBThis 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...
The Emergence of Dog Obedience in America
June 17, 2020 19:45 - 25 minutes - 57.9 MBThis 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 fo...