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.
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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 Mexico, their connection to ancient societies like the Toltecs and Aztecs, and their journey into the modern world.
Along the way, you’ll learn about the breed’s distinctive characteristics: big eyes, big ears, and an even bigger personality. We’ll break down their temperament, why they often act like dogs ten times their size, and what makes them such fiercely loyal companions. Plus, we’ll look at famous Chihuahuas in movies, television, and celebrity culture that helped skyrocket their popularity.
Whether you’re a lifelong Chihuahua lover or just curious about these pint-sized pups, this episode is packed with fun facts, surprising history, and plenty of charm. From ancient temples to Hollywood handbags, the Chihuahua proves that great things really do come in small packages.
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 remember to subscribe or follow Doggone History in your podcast app and leave a rating and review.
Show notes, transcripts and more are available at https://www.doggonehistory.com.
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Salukis: Ancient Hunters of the Middle East
Episode 2
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 13:49
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 remember to subscribe or follow Doggone History in your podcast app and leave a rating and review.
Show notes, transcripts and more are available at doggonehistory.com/2
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Labrador Retrievers: From Fishing Boats to Suburban Sofas
Episode 1
Wednesday, April 1, 2026 • Duration 12:59
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, their ancestors worked alongside fishermen in the icy waters of Atlantic Canada. Descended from the legendary St. John's Water Dog, these sturdy, intelligent dogs were prized for their ability to retrieve fishing nets, ropes, and escaped fish from the cold sea. Their strength, water-resistant coats, and natural retrieving instincts made them indispensable partners on fishing boats during the 18th and 19th centuries.
The story of the Labrador Retriever takes an unexpected turn when British sportsmen visiting Newfoundland recognize the remarkable abilities of these dogs and bring them back to England. There, careful breeding refines the dogs into the Labrador Retriever we know today—a versatile retriever capable of excelling in hunting, field work, and companionship. Influential breeders and aristocratic patrons help shape the breed’s development, preserving its intelligence, gentle temperament, and unmatched retrieving drive.
Along the way, the Labrador Retriever becomes much more than a working dog. Labs rise to prominence as service dogs, search-and-rescue heroes, therapy companions, and beloved pets in millions of homes worldwide. Their friendly nature, trainability, and boundless enthusiasm have helped make them a consistent favorite among dog lovers for generations.
Listen to Doggone History for a light-hearted look at the origins, development, and enduring popularity of the Labrador Retriever. Whether you’re a lifelong Lab owner, a dog history enthusiast, or simply curious about how this hardworking fishing dog became a global icon, this episode explores the remarkable journey of one of the world’s most beloved breeds. 🐾
Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano.
Remember to subscribe or follow Doggone History in your podcast app, and leave a rating and review!
Show notes, transcripts, and more can be found at doggonehistory.com.
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Introducing Doggone History!
Monday, March 16, 2026 • Duration 00:57
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
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Scottish Terriers: The Diehards
Episode 4
Wednesday, April 8, 2026 • Duration 14:20
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 lovers and history buffs alike, this episode uncovers the story behind the legendary “Scottie.”
Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano.
All episodes, show notes, and transcripts can be found at doggonehistory.com.
Please leave a rating and review in your favorite podcast app!
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Border Terriers: The Lovable Workhorse
Episode 8
Wednesday, April 29, 2026 • Duration 12:21
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 household pets, while still retaining the intelligence, endurance, and friendly temperament that define the breed today. Whether you’re a dog lover, researching different dog breeds, or considering Border Terriers as pets, this is a fun look back at their history, characteristics, and lasting appeal.
Doggone History is written, edited, hosted, and produced by Rich Napolitano. All episodes, show notes, and transcripts can be found at doggonehistory.com.
If you would like to feature YOUR DOG on the cover art of a future episode, please follow Doggone History on Instagram, and send a photo of your pooch! Or send a photo to rich@doggonehistory.com.
Doggone History podcast is a light-hearted history of dogs, one breed at a time.
Follow Doggone History:
Intagram: @doggonehistorypodcast
Threads: @doggonehistorypodcast
BlueSky: @doggonehistory.bsky.social
Facebook: @doggonehistory
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French Bulldogs: Adorable Clowns
Episode 7
Tuesday, April 21, 2026 • Duration 17:05
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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 way these small companions became favorites of artists, aristocrats, and everyday city dwellers, eventually making their way across the Atlantic to become one of America’s most beloved breeds.
If you would like to feature YOUR DOG on the cover art of a future episode, please follow Doggone History on Instagram, and send a photo of your pooch! Or send a photo to rich@doggonehistory.com.
Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano.
All episodes, show notes, and transcripts can be found at doggonehistory.com.
Follow Doggone History on Social Media!
Intagram: @doggonehistorypodcast
Threads: @doggonehistorypodcast
BlueSky: @doggonehistory.bsky.social
Facebook: @doggonehistory
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Vizslas: The Velcro Dogs
Episode 5
Wednesday, April 15, 2026 • Duration 14:33
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 who can give it a lot of attention.
If you would like to feature YOUR DOG on the cover art of a future episode, please follow Doggone History on Instagram, and send a photo of your pooch! Or send a photo to rich@doggonehistory.com.
Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano.
All episodes, show notes, and transcripts can be found at doggonehistory.com.
Follow Doggone History on Social Media!
Intagram: @doggonehistorypodcast
Threads: @doggonehistorypodcast
BlueSky: @doggonehistory.bsky.social
Facebook: @doggonehistory
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Shih Tzus: China's Little Lions
Episode 13
Wednesday, June 17, 2026 • Duration 22:20
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 nearly wiped the breed off the map entirely. Find out how a handful of dogs smuggled out of China by a determined Englishwoman saved the breed from extinction, how it found its way to America after World War II, and how it became one of the most beloved toy breeds in the world. Grab your own little lion dog and settle in for a story with palace intrigue, near-extinction, and one very dramatic comeback.
New episodes of Doggone History drop every Wednesday. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora, Castbox, Pocketcasts, and all major podcast platforms.
Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano.
Transcripts and more are available at doggonehistory.com.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
Beagles: The Sniffer Dogs
Episode 12
Wednesday, June 3, 2026 • Duration 12:10
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 their way into the hearts and homes of everyday families, and why this compact, curious, and famously loud little hound has stood the test of time. Along the way you will learn about the breed's remarkable nose, their role in pop culture, and what makes them one of the most recognizable dogs on the planet.
Whether you are a proud Beagle owner, a dog history enthusiast, or just someone who loves a good story, this episode is for you.
New episodes of Doggone History drop every Wednesday. Find us on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora, Castbox, Pocketcasts, and all major podcast platforms.
Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano.
Transcripts and more are available at doggonehistory.com.
Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices
