Doggone History

Doggone History

Doggone History is a light-hearted look at the history of dogs, one breed at a time. From windswept deserts to misty Scottish Highlands, every breed carries a story shaped by centuries of partnership with humans. Each episode takes a close look at the history, characteristics and personality that define the breed in the modern world, and their popularity in our culture. Because every dog has a history. And every history deserves a good belly rub.

Episodes

Golden Retrievers: Gentle Giants

July 15, 2026 • 13 mins
They're the goofy grin in every "good boy" meme, the go-to breed for therapy dogs, guide dogs, and family portraits alike. But where did the Golden Retriever actually come from? This episode digs into the surprisingly aristocratic origins of America's (and honestly, the world's) favorite good boy. We're heading to the misty highlands of 19th-century Scotland, where a wealthy nobleman named Dudley Marjoribanks, Lord Tweedmouth, set...
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Border Collies: The World's Smartest Dogs

July 1, 2026 • 26 mins
The World's Smartest Dogs | Border Collies If you've ever watched a Border Collie work a flock of sheep, you already know this is no ordinary dog. With a piercing gaze, an almost supernatural instinct, and a brain that seemingly never clocks out, the Border Collie has earned its reputation as the world's most intelligent dog breed. But how did this extraordinary animal come to be, and what makes them tick? This week on Doggone Hi...
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Shih Tzus: China's Little Lions

June 17, 2026 • 22 mins
For over a thousand years, only emperors were allowed to own this dog. This week, Rich Napolitano traces the wild history of the Shih Tzu, from its roots as a sacred "lion dog" in Tibetan Buddhist legend, to its exclusive life inside the Forbidden City, where palace eunuchs ran a cutthroat breeding program just to catch the Emperor's eye. Then things took a turn with the fall of the Qing Dynasty and the chaos of revolution that nea...
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Beagles: The Sniffer Dogs

June 3, 2026 • 12 mins
Ever wonder where the Beagle came from? In this episode of Doggone History, host Rich Napolitano digs into the fascinating history of one of the world's most beloved dog breeds. From their origins as scent hounds in ancient England to their rise as one of the most popular family pets in America, the Beagle has one of the most interesting stories in the canine world. Rich covers how Beagles were bred for hunting, how they found the...
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Affenpinschers: The Monkey Dogs

May 20, 2026 • 11 mins
Ever wondered where that scrappy little "monkey dog" came from? In this episode of Doggone History, host Rich Napolitano digs into the fascinating history of the Affenpinscher, one of Europe's oldest and most entertaining toy breeds. From the ratting dogs of 17th-century Germany to the polished show rings of the modern era, the Affenpinscher has lived many lives. We'll explore how this pint-sized pup earned its quirky nickname, it...
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German Shepherds: The World's Most Trusted Dogs

May 13, 2026 • 12 mins
From the Fields of Germany to the World's Most Trusted Dog — The History of the German Shepherd Few dogs have left a paw print on history quite like the German Shepherd. This week on Doggone History, host Rich Napolitano digs into the fascinating origins of one of the world's most beloved and versatile breeds. From the pastoral hillsides of 19th-century Germany to the front lines of World War I, the silver screen, and your l...
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Old English Sheepdog: The Shaggy History of the Bobtail Breed

May 6, 2026 • 14 mins
From the rolling hills of the English countryside to the parlors of America's most powerful families, the Old English Sheepdog has one of the most fascinating journeys in canine history. In this episode of Doggone History, host Rich Napolitano traces the breed from its murky origins, likely descended from the Scottish Bearded Collie and the Russian Owtchar, to its rise as a beloved family companion and cultural icon. Discover how ...
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Border Terriers: The Lovable Workhorse

April 29, 2026 • 12 mins
Explore the fascinating history of Border Terriers in this episode, where we trace the origins of one of the most hardworking and beloved dog breeds. Bred along the rugged borderlands of England and Scotland, Border Terriers were developed as tough, agile dogs capable of keeping up with fox hunts and controlling vermin. This episode looks at how these determined little dogs evolved from working farm companions into popular househol...
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French Bulldogs: Adorable Clowns

April 21, 2026 • 17 mins
bIQQCXIPmzX1ivabnLYr Compact, quirky, and full of personality, the French Bulldog has a history as charming as its bat-like ears. This episode traces the breed’s origins from 14th century mastiff-type dogs used for bull-baiting, to 19th-century England, where lace workers bred miniature bulldogs, to its rise in popularity among Parisian café society after being brought to France during the Industrial Revolution. Along the ...
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Vizslas: The Velcro Dogs

April 15, 2026 • 14 mins
The Vizsla comes from a long line of sleek and agile Hungarian hunting dogs, and were once the hunting dogs of nobles. Over a thousand years of selective breeding has produced a dog with keen prey instincts, but also an intense loyalty and a strong bond with its master. Vizslas have an extreme and primal need to remain close to their humans. Incredibly energetic and playful, Vizslas make a perfect companion dog for an active family...
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Scottish Terriers: The Diehards

April 8, 2026 • 14 mins
Discover the fascinating history of the Scottish Terrier, one of the most iconic and spirited dog breeds to come out of Scotland. From their origins as fearless vermin hunters in the rugged Highlands to their rise as beloved companions of presidents and celebrities, this episode explores it all. Learn how their bold personality, distinctive look, and unwavering loyalty earned them a permanent place in pop culture. Perfect for dog l...
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Chihuahuas: Tiny Dogs With a Giant Legacy

April 1, 2026 • 14 mins
Discover the fascinating story behind one of the world’s smallest and boldest dog breeds in this episode of Doggone History. Where did Chihuahuas come from? Are they truly descendants of ancient dogs like the Techichi of Mesoamerica? And how did these tiny companions go from sacred animals of early civilizations to beloved lapdogs and pop culture icons? In this episode, we explore the Chihuahua’s mysterious origins in...
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Salukis: Ancient Hunters of the Middle East

April 1, 2026 • 13 mins
The Saluki is one of the most ancient dog breeds, originating from the sands of ancient Middle Eastern deserts. These "Royal Dogs of Royalty" were prized hunters and revered companions. Their elegance, endurance, and gracefulness remains in the Saluki today. Doggone history is a lighthearted look at the history of dogs, one breed at a time. Written, edited, and produced by, and original theme music by, Rich Napolitano. Please re...
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Labrador Retrievers: From Fishing Boats to Suburban Sofas

April 1, 2026 • 12 mins
Discover the fascinating story behind the beloved Labrador Retriever, one of the most popular dogs in the world. In this episode of Doggone History, we dive into the history of the Labrador Retriever, from its hardworking origins along the rugged coasts of Newfoundland to its rise as a loyal family companion and one of the most recognizable breeds on the planet. Long before Labradors were chasing tennis balls in suburban backyards...
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Introducing Doggone History!

March 16, 2026 • 57 secs
Doggone History is a lighthearted history of dogs, one breed at a time. Labrador Retrievers, Beagles, French Bulldogs, German Sherpherds, and all of the other breeds weren't always what they are today. Join host Rich Napolitano for a fun journey and hear our beloved pets have developed over time into the furry freinds we know today. If you love dogs, you will love Doggone History! https://www.doggonehistory.com Learn more ab...
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