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Explore every episode of the podcast The Breed Files

Dive into the complete episode list for The Breed Files. Each episode is cataloged with detailed descriptions, making it easy to find and explore specific topics. Keep track of all episodes from your favorite podcast and never miss a moment of insightful content.

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TitlePub. DateDuration
Blood Sports: The Dark History of Dog Fighting14 oct. 202600:45:04

Welcome back to The Breed Files! This Halloween, we’re confronting one of the darkest forms of animal cruelty: dog fighting. In this episode, we explore the history of dog fighting, how this blood sport evolved, and what it looks like today. We’ll examine the realities faced by dogs who are bred, trained, and forced to fight for human entertainment and profit.

Content Warning: This episode contains discussions of animal cruelty, dog fighting, and potentially graphic subject matter. If you would prefer to skip anything graphic or related to animal cruelty, please skip ahead to 37:37. At that point, we shift our focus to the most important part of the conversation: what we can do as individuals and as a community to help end dog fighting. We’ll discuss ways to recognize suspected cruelty, support animal welfare organizations, and help create a culture where this kind of abuse has no place. It’s a difficult subject, but understanding the problem is one of the first steps toward helping stop it.










Sources:

  • American Kennel Club. “American Staffordshire Terrier History: AmStaff.” *American Kennel Club*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/american-staffordshire-terrier-history-amstaff/]
  • ASPCA. “A Closer Look at Dogfighting.” *ASPCA*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://www.aspca.org/investigations-rescue/dogfighting/closer-look-dogfighting]
  • HowStuffWorks. “Dogfighting.” *HowStuffWorks*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://people.howstuffworks.com/dogfighting4.htm]
  • Humane World for Animals. “Dogfighting.” *Humane World for Animals*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://www.humaneworld.org/en/issue/dogfighting]
  • Kennedy, John, and Cory Booker. “Kennedy, Booker Reintroduce Bipartisan Bill to Combat Animal Fighting and Trafficking.” *U.S. Senator John Kennedy*, April 2025. [https://www.kennedy.senate.gov/public/2025/4/kennedy-booker-reintroduce-bipartisan-bill-to-combat-animal-fighting-and-trafficking]
  • “History of Dog Fighting in the World.” *ResearchGate*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://www.researchgate.net/publication/276299811_History_of_Dog_Fighting_In_The_World]
  • Love-A-Bull. “The History of Pit Bulls.” *Love-A-Bull*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://love-a-bull.org/resources/the-history-of-pit-bulls/]
  • New Bern Sun Journal. “Dog Fighting: An Informant’s Story.” *New Bern Sun Journal*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://www.newbernsj.com/features/dog-fighting-an-informants-story/article_c795698f-4268-52cc-b637-a8d3fb15b1b6.html]
  • New York Post. “Dogfight Capital of the World.” *New York Post*, October 14, 2007. [https://nypost.com/2007/10/14/dogfight-capital-of-the-world/]
  • NPR. “A History of Dogfighting.” *NPR*, July 19, 2007. [https://www.npr.org/2007/07/19/12108421/a-history-of-dogfighting]
  • Philadelphia Encyclopedia. “Dogfighting.” *The Encyclopedia of Greater Philadelphia*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://philadelphiaencyclopedia.org/essays/dogfighting/]
  • “Dogfighting.” *Medium*, “Lessons from History.” Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://medium.com/lessons-from-history/a-brief-history-of-dogfighting-56a1c0af0da5]
  • Wounded Paw Project. “Signs of Dogfighting.” *Wounded Paw Project*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://woundedpawproject.org/dogfighting/signs-of-dogfighting/]
  • YouTube. “SbQlaQ6V3i4.” *YouTube*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SbQlaQ6V3i4]
  • Facebook. “Facebook Group Post.” *Facebook*. Accessed August 1, 2026. [https://www.facebook.com/groups/653721228158059/posts/653722891491226/]
  • Music: Dark Awakening, malictusmusic, Free Music Archive CC BY
Hellhounds & Other Dogs You Don’t Want to Meet at Night07 oct. 202600:16:47

Welcome back to The Breed Files! What exactly is a hellhound? In this episode, we dig into the folklore behind these supernatural dogs, exploring what defines a hellhound, where the stories come from, and the common themes that appear across different cultures. Then we meet some fascinating canine creatures from folklore, including the fairy hounds of Celtic tradition, the Cu Sith, and Japan’s mysterious Okuri-inu. Are these spectral dogs omens of death, supernatural guardians, or something a little more complicated?










Sources:

  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hellhound
  • https://www.britannica.com/topic/The-Hound-of-the-Baskervilles
  • https://www.greekmythology.com/Myths/Creatures/Cerberus/cerberus.html
  • https://norse-mythology.org/garm/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_dog_(folklore)
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C%C3%B9-s%C3%ACth
  • https://folklorescotland.com/cu-sith-%EF%BF%BC/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Santa_Compa%C3%B1a
  • https://mythus.fandom.com/wiki/Urco
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wild_Hunt
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/C%C5%B5n_Annwn
  • https://yokai.com/okuriinu/?srsltid=AfmBOorGigpLtTlaQq2WUbG8xhRGntEkOi4vZSynLUpT0DLipLVGjgIK
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Y%C5%8Dkai
  • https://yokai.com/yosuzume/?srsltid=AU7gw4W-Bc2YayiFHyFfZjdVxks9ylNiZ4KZjvuYhhrNdqCbqmZAHE5c
Rethinking Brachycephalic Dogs: Flat-Faced, Not Flawed30 sept. 202600:49:23

Welcome back to The Breed Files! What exactly does it mean for a dog to be brachycephalic? And does having a flat face automatically mean a dog is unhealthy? This week, we're taking a closer look at brachycephalic dogs and going beyond the stereotypes. We'll break down what “brachycephalic” actually means, hear different perspectives from owners who live with these breeds, and dive into BOAS (the breathing disorder that has become one of the biggest concerns surrounding flat-faced dogs). But we're also tackling a complicated question: Can brachycephalic dogs be ethically bred?

Tune in for a deeper look at the dogs behind the controversy and the future of responsible brachycephalic breeding.










Sources:

Accessed 7/11/2026

7/11/2026

  • https://evolution.berkeley.edu/lines-of-evidence/artificial-selection/
  • https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S1558787814000616
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC7380493/
  • https://www.humanevma.org/brachycephalic
  • https://www.researchgate.net/figure/Craniofacial-ratio-CFR-of-the-dog-which-is-obtained-by-dividing-the-muzzle-length-by_fig1_378707023
  • https://melbournebulldogclinic.com.au/important-info/cranio-facial-ratio/
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasal_concha
  • https://www.cancer.gov/publications/dictionaries/cancer-terms/def/frontal-sinus
  • https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Frontal_sinus
  • https://www.sciencedirect.com/topics/medicine-and-dentistry/frontal-sinus
  • https://www.nationwidechildrens.org/conditions/noisy-breathing-stridor
  • https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK499965/
  • https://www.youtube.com/shorts/0u-44Z0rm14
  • https://crest.com/en-us/oral-care-tips/pregnancy/what-is-ptyalism?srsltid=AfmBOoqNZbcMs4LbyIgeDzb4wn6Hgn-28fMJorvX4ZbVwi9yi3eXihth
  • https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22376-nasopharynx
  • https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/24278-epiglottis
  • https://archaeology.org/news/2023/04/18/230419-brachycephalic-dog/
  • https://www.nationalgeographic.com/premium/article/flat-faced-brachycephalic-roman-dog-frenchie-pug-bulldog
  • https://www.cam.ac.uk/research/news/no-simple-way-of-predicting-breathing-difficulties-in-pugs-french-bulldogs-and-bulldogs-from
  • https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0181928
  • https://ofa.org/diseases/rfgs/
  • https://ofa.org/diseases/rfgs/
  • https://www.vet.cam.ac.uk/boas/about-boas/recognition-diagnosis
  • https://www.royalkennelclub.com/health-and-dog-care/health-dog-care/health/getting-started-with-health-testing-and-screening/respiratory-function-grading-scheme/
  • https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC11264736/
  • https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0340604
  • https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S000334729690370X
  • https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/ajvr/79/2/ajvr.79.2.170.xml
Legendary Tails: English Setter23 sept. 202600:10:46

Welcome back! This week, Seaira travels back in time to meet Jim the Wonder Dog, an English Setter whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

  • Croft, August. “Jim the Wonder Dog Responded to Morse Code, and Scientists Couldn’t Explain How.” A-Z Animals, May 17, 2026. Accessed July 25, 2026. https://a-z-animals.com/articles/jim-the-wonder-dog-repsonded-to-morse-code-and-scientists-couldnt-explain-how/.
  • Figley, Marty Rhodes. The True Story of Jim the Wonder Dog. Oklahoma City, OK: The RoadRunner Press, 2017. Accessed July 25, 2026. https://www.amazon.com/True-Story-Jim-Wonder-Dog/dp/1937054411.
  • Jim the Wonder Dog. “About.” Accessed July 25, 2026. https://www.jimthewonderdog.org/about.
  • “Jim the Wonder Dog.” Wikipedia. Accessed July 25, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jim_the_Wonder_Dog.
  • Missouri Secretary of State. “Missouri State Wonder Dog: Jim the Wonder Dog.” Accessed July 25, 2026. https://www.sos.mo.gov/symbol/wonderdog.
  • Reddit. “Unresolved Cryptid: Jim the Wonder Dog (Statewide).” Reddit, September 2018. Accessed July 25, 2026. https://www.reddit.com/r/UnresolvedMysteries/comments/9bgw0g/unresolvedcryptid_jim_the_wonder_dog_statewide/.
English Setter Part 2: The Gentleman’s Gun Dog16 sept. 202600:28:44

Welcome back to The Breed Files! Think English Setters are just pretty, feathered dogs? Think again. In this episode, Kelsey Kryszak and Kendall MacKenzie, two people with extensive experience with English Setters, join us to uncover what makes this elegant bird dog so special. From their history as hardworking hunting companions to their affectionate, playful personalities, we explore the breed’s purpose, temperament, trainability, exercise needs, and what it’s really like to live with one. Are you looking for a beautiful, easygoing companion, or does this athletic bird dog need more than you’re ready to give? Tune in to find out!










Sources:

  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/english-setter/
  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter Breed Standard.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Breed Standard
  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter History: Where the Breed Originated.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter History
  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter Study Guide.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Study Guide
  • Audubon Animal Clinic. “English Setter.” Audubon Animal Clinic. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Breed Information
  • British Small Animal Veterinary Association. “New DNA Testing Schemes for the English Setter.” BSAVA, August 15, 2019. Accessed July 9, 2026. New DNA Testing Schemes for the English Setter
  • Embark Veterinary, Inc. “English Setters: Dog Breed Info, Photos, Common Names, and More.” Embark. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Breed Information
  • English Setter Association of America. “English Setter Association of America.” Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Association of America
  • Gundog Journal. “English Setters.” Gundog Journal. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setters
  • Mayo Clinic. “Hashimoto’s Disease: Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic. Accessed July 9, 2026. Hashimoto’s Disease
  • Orvis. “English Setter.” Orvis. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter
  • Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. “Thyroid.” Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Accessed July 9, 2026. OFA Thyroid Information
  • PetMD. “English Setter Dog Breed Health and Care.” PetMD. Updated August 28, 2023. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Health and Care
  • Ryman Setters. “What Is a Ryman-Type Setter?” Ryman Setters. Accessed July 9, 2026. What Is a Ryman-Type Setter?
  • University of California, Davis, Veterinary Genetics Laboratory. “English Setter.” Veterinary Genetics Laboratory. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Genetic Information
  • Westminster Kennel Club. “English Setter.” The Westminster Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter

English Setter Part 1: The Gentleman’s Gun Dog09 sept. 202600:58:05

Welcome back to The Breed Files! Think English Setters are just pretty, feathered dogs? Think again. In this episode, Kelsey Kryszak and Kendall MacKenzie, two people with extensive experience with English Setters, join us to uncover what makes this elegant bird dog so special. From their history as hardworking hunting companions to their affectionate, playful personalities, we explore the breed’s purpose, temperament, trainability, exercise needs, and what it’s really like to live with one. Are you looking for a beautiful, easygoing companion, or does this athletic bird dog need more than you’re ready to give? Tune in to find out!










Sources:

  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/english-setter/
  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter Breed Standard.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Breed Standard
  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter History: Where the Breed Originated.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter History
  • American Kennel Club. “English Setter Study Guide.” American Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Study Guide
  • Audubon Animal Clinic. “English Setter.” Audubon Animal Clinic. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Breed Information
  • British Small Animal Veterinary Association. “New DNA Testing Schemes for the English Setter.” BSAVA, August 15, 2019. Accessed July 9, 2026. New DNA Testing Schemes for the English Setter
  • Embark Veterinary, Inc. “English Setters: Dog Breed Info, Photos, Common Names, and More.” Embark. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Breed Information
  • English Setter Association of America. “English Setter Association of America.” Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Association of America
  • Gundog Journal. “English Setters.” Gundog Journal. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setters
  • Mayo Clinic. “Hashimoto’s Disease: Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic. Accessed July 9, 2026. Hashimoto’s Disease
  • Orvis. “English Setter.” Orvis. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter
  • Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. “Thyroid.” Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. Accessed July 9, 2026. OFA Thyroid Information
  • PetMD. “English Setter Dog Breed Health and Care.” PetMD. Updated August 28, 2023. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Health and Care
  • Ryman Setters. “What Is a Ryman-Type Setter?” Ryman Setters. Accessed July 9, 2026. What Is a Ryman-Type Setter?
  • University of California, Davis, Veterinary Genetics Laboratory. “English Setter.” Veterinary Genetics Laboratory. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter Genetic Information
  • Westminster Kennel Club. “English Setter.” The Westminster Kennel Club. Accessed July 9, 2026. English Setter
Pet Obesity: Love Is Not Measured in Treats02 sept. 202600:19:16

Welcome back to The Breed Files! Today, we’re taking a closer look at pet obesity, not just from a medical perspective, but from a cultural one. We all know that carrying extra weight can lead to serious health problems, but why has it become so common for dogs and cats to be overweight in the first place? From oversized treats and endless snacking to the way we use food to show love, we’re exploring how our relationship with our pets, and with food, may be shaping the way we see their bodies. When does a well-fed pet become an overweight pet? Why can it be so difficult to recognize obesity in our own animals? And why do we sometimes celebrate or laugh about a pet being “chonky” instead of recognizing that something may be wrong?










Sources:

  • Eastland-Jones, Rebekah C., Alexander J. German, Shelley L. Holden, Vincent Biourge, and Lucy C. Pickavance. “Owner Misperception of Canine Body Condition Persists Despite Use of a Body Condition Score Chart.” *Journal of Nutritional Science* 3 (2014): e45. https://doi.org/10.1017/jns.2014.25. Accessed June 27, 2026.
  • Kluess, Heidi A., and Rebecca L. Jones. “A Comparison of Owner Perceived and Measured Body Condition, Feeding and Exercise in Sport and Pet Dogs.” *Frontiers in Veterinary Science* 10 (2023): 1211996. https://doi.org/10.3389/fvets.2023.1211996. Accessed June 27, 2026.
  • Muñoz-Prieto, Alberto, Liza Rosenbaum Nielsen, Roman Dąbrowski, Charlotte Reinhard Bjørnvad, Josefin Söder, Elsa Lamy, Ingrida Monkeviciene, et al. “European Dog Owner Perceptions of Obesity and Factors Associated with Human and Canine Obesity.” *Scientific Reports* 8 (2018): 13353. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-018-31532-0. Accessed June 27, 2026.
  • White, G. A., P. Hobson-West, K. Cobb, J. Craigon, R. Hammond, and K. M. Millar. “Canine Obesity: Is There a Difference between Veterinarian and Owner Perception?” *Journal of Small Animal Practice* 52, no. 12 (2011): 622–626. https://doi.org/10.1111/j.1748-5827.2011.01138.x. Accessed June 27, 2026.
  • Gille, Sanna, Hanna Fischer, Sanna Lindåse, Linda Palmqvist, Julia Lärka, Sara Wolf, Johanna Penell, and Josefin Söder. “Dog Owners’ Perceptions of Canine Body Composition and Effect of Standardized Education for Dog Owners on Body Condition Assessment of Their Own Dogs.” *Veterinary Sciences* 10, no. 7 (2023): 447. https://doi.org/10.3390/vetsci10070447. Accessed June 27, 2026.
Hypoallergenic Dogs: Fact or Fiction?26 août 202600:18:27

Welcome back to The Breed Files! Think there’s such a thing as a truly hypoallergenic dog? Think again. In this episode, we’re exposing the truth behind the “hypoallergenic” label and breaking down what actually causes dog allergies. From shedding and dander to saliva, grooming, and individual reactions. Where did the idea of the hypoallergenic dog come from, and can people with allergies really find a dog they can live with? Let’s uncover the truth!










Sources:

Cleveland Clinic. “Allergies.” Cleveland Clinic. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Food and Drug Administration. “Hypoallergenic Cosmetics.” U.S. Food and Drug Administration. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Mayo Clinic. “Pet Allergy: Symptoms and Causes.” Mayo Clinic. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Merriam-Webster. “Allergen.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Merriam-Webster. “Hypoallergenic.” Merriam-Webster.com Dictionary. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Thermo Fisher Scientific. “Can Allergies Change over Time?” Thermo Fisher Scientific. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Chan, Sanny K., and Donald Y. M. Leung. “Dog and Cat Allergies: Current State of Diagnostic Approaches and Challenges.” Allergy, Asthma & Immunology Research 10, no. 2 (2018): 97–105. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Nicholas, Charlotte E., Ganesa R. Wegienka, Suzanne L. Havstad, Edward M. Zoratti, Dennis R. Ownby, and Christine Cole Johnson. “Dog Allergen Levels in Homes with Hypoallergenic Compared with Nonhypoallergenic Dogs.” American Journal of Rhinology & Allergy 25, no. 4 (2011): 252–256. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Ownby, Dennis, and Christine Cole Johnson. “Recent Understandings of Pet Allergies.” F1000Research 5 (2016): F1000 Faculty Rev-108. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Schoos, Ann-Marie M., Bright I. Nwaru, and Magnus P. Borres. “Component-Resolved Diagnostics in Pet Allergy: Current Perspectives and Future Directions.” Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 147, no. 4 (2021): 1164–1173. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Vredegoor, Doris W., Ton Willemse, Martin D. Chapman, Dick J. J. Heederik, and Esmeralda J. M. Krop. “Can f 1 Levels in Hair and Homes of Different Dog Breeds: Lack of Evidence to Describe Any Dog Breed as Hypoallergenic.” Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology 130, no. 4 (2012): 904–909.e7. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Hilger, Christiane, Bente Janssen-Weets, and Kyra Swiontek. “Hypoallergenic Animals: A Promise of Hope for Allergic Patients?” Allergologie Select 8 (2024): 64–69. Accessed June 19, 2026.

Legendary Tails: Newfoundland19 août 202600:15:52

Welcome back! This week, McKay travels back in time to meet Seaman, a Newfoundland whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

Newfoundland: The Original Lifeguard12 août 202600:53:18

Welcome back to The Breed Files! Think Newfoundlands are just giant, fluffy couch potatoes? Think again. Chelsey Montgomery-Gusta with Knallhart Academy joins us to uncover the truth about one of the most beloved gentle giants in the dog world. From their fascinating history as hardworking water dogs to their incredible swimming and lifesaving abilities, we explore what makes the Newfoundland so special. We’ll dive into the breed’s temperament, trainability, versatility, and what it’s really like to live with a dog this big. Is the Newfoundland the gentle giant you’ve been looking for, or is this larger-than-life breed not the right fit for you? Tune in to find out!










Sources:

American Kennel Club. “How to Train a Newfoundland Puppy: Timeline & Schedule.” American Kennel Club. Accessed June 26, 2026.

American Kennel Club. “Newfoundland.” American Kennel Club. Accessed June 26, 2026.

American Kennel Club. “Newfoundland Breed History: From Fishermen’s Helpers to Loyal Guardians.” American Kennel Club. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Newfoundland.” Encyclopaedia Britannica. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Heritage Newfoundland and Labrador. “Indigenous Peoples.” Heritage Newfoundland and Labrador. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Heritage Newfoundland and Labrador. “Newfoundland and Labrador Animals.” Heritage Newfoundland and Labrador. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Love Newfoundlands. “Common Health Issues in Newfoundland Dogs.” Love Newfoundlands. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Modern Dog. “The Newfoundland.” Modern Dog Magazine. Accessed June 26, 2026.

My Brown Newfies. “10 Common Behavior Issues Seen With the Newfoundland Dog.” My Brown Newfies. August 16, 2018. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Newfoundland Club of America. “Newfoundland Club of America.” Newfoundland Club of America. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Nylabone. “Newfoundland Dog Breed.” Nylabone. Accessed June 26, 2026.

Pet Aversion During the Perinatal and Postpartum Periods05 août 202600:41:36

Welcome back! Today we're discussing a topic that many new and expecting parents experience but few people talk about: postpartum and perinatal pet aversion.

After hearing from listeners and collecting stories from social media, we dive into the wide range of experiences people have had with their pets during pregnancy and after bringing home a new baby. We explore why these feelings may happen, how common they really are, and the emotional challenges that can come with them.

Whether you're currently experiencing pet aversion, expecting a baby, or simply want to be prepared, this episode offers practical tips to help you set yourself up for success before and after your little one arrives. Most importantly, we hope to remind you that you're not alone, and that these feelings don't make you a bad pet owner or parent.










Sources:


Legendary Tails: Poodle29 juil. 202600:14:46

Welcome back! This week, Seaira travels back in time to meet Boye the Witch Dog, a poodle whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

Poodle Part 2: Beyond the Pom-Poms22 juil. 202600:43:37

Welcome back to The Breed Files! Think Poodles are just fancy haircuts and dog shows? Think again. Mairin Hershik with Flourish Kennels joins us to uncover the truth about one of the most intelligent and versatile breeds in the world. From their fascinating history to their personalities, trainability, and the origins of their glamorous reputation, we cover everything you need to know to decide whether a Poodle might be the perfect dog for you, including exploring the breed's history, temperament, versatility, and unique qualities. Be sure to catch Part 2 next week, where we continue the conversation!










Sources:

​American Kennel Club. Official Standard of the Poodle. PDF. Accessed June 14, 2026. https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Poodle.pdf.

​American Kennel Club. “Poodle (Standard).” Accessed June 14, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/poodle-standard/.

​American Kennel Club. “The History of the Poodle.” Accessed June 14, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/poodle-history/.

​Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. “CHIC Programs: Browse by Breed—Poodle (Miniature).” Accessed June 14, 2026. https://ofa.org/chic-programs/browse-by-breed/?breed=PO/MIN.

​Poodle Club of America. “Poodle Club of America.” Accessed June 14, 2026. https://poodleclubofamerica.org/.

​Wikipedia contributors. “Poodle.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Accessed June 14, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Poodle.

Poodle Part 1: Beyond the Pom-Poms17 juil. 202600:30:58

Welcome back to The Breed Files! Think Poodles are just fancy haircuts and dog shows? Think again. Mairin Hershik with Flourish Kennels joins us to uncover the truth about one of the most intelligent and versatile breeds in the world. From their fascinating history to their personalities, trainability, and the origins of their glamorous reputation, we cover everything you need to know to decide whether a Poodle might be the perfect dog for you, including exploring the breed's history, temperament, versatility, and unique qualities. Be sure to catch Part 2 next week, where we continue the conversation!










Sources:

Legendary Tails: American Staffordshire Terrier08 juil. 202600:13:27

Welcome back! This week, McKay travels back in time to meet Sergeant Stubby, an American Staffordshire Terrier whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

American Kennel Club. "American Staffordshire Terrier.". Accessed July 6, 2026.

Connecticut History. "A True Dog of War: Sergeant Stubby.". Accessed July 6, 2026.

History. "World War I.". Accessed July 6, 2026.

Smithsonian Institution, National Museum of American History. "Sergeant Stubby.". Accessed July 6, 2026.

State of Connecticut, Department of Veterans Affairs. "Stubby the Military Dog.". Accessed July 6, 2026.

Wikipedia. "No Man's Land.". Accessed July 6, 2026.

Wikipedia. "Sergeant Stubby.". Accessed July 6, 2026.

American Staffordshire Terrier: Strength, Loyalty, and the Truth Behind the Breed01 juil. 202600:55:14

Welcome back to the Breed Files podcast! Joining us today Mary Alverson, a guest with extensive experience with the breed. The American Staffordshire Terrier is one of the most misunderstood dog breeds in the world. In this episode, we explore the history of the AmStaff, from its early origins to its development as a devoted companion. We'll discuss the breed's temperament, intelligence, athleticism, and unwavering loyalty, as well as the challenges it has faced due to misconceptions and breed stereotypes.

Whether you're a longtime AmStaff owner, considering adding one to your family, or simply curious about this remarkable breed, join us as we uncover what makes the American Staffordshire Terrier a confident, affectionate, and deeply devoted canine companion.










Sources:

American Kennel Club. “American Staffordshire Terrier.” Accessed May 30, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/american-staffordshire-terrier/.


American Kennel Club. “American Staffordshire Terrier History: The AmStaff.” Accessed May 30, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/american-staffordshire-terrier-history-amstaff/.


Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Pit Bull.” Accessed May 30, 2026. https://www.britannica.com/animal/pit-bull.


Tempest American Staffordshire Terriers. “Home.” Accessed May 30, 2026. https://www.tempestamstaffs.com/.


The Staffordshire Terrier Club of America. “Home.” Accessed May 30, 2026. https://amstaff.org/.


Wikipedia Contributors. “American Staffordshire Terrier.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Accessed May 30, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/American_Staffordshire_Terrier.


YouTube. “American Staffordshire Terrier Video.” Accessed May 30, 2026. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x7_CjzH2TiY.

Epagneul Breton: The French Field-Tested Athlete24 juin 202600:12:14

Welcome back to The Breed Files Podcast! This week, we're taking a closer look at the Epagneul Breton (aka French Brittany). The Epagnuel Breton is a high-energy sporting breed beloved for its intelligence, versatility, and unwavering devotion to its people. Whether they're working a field, competing in dog sports, or tagging along on your latest adventure, Brittanys approach life at full speed and with a wagging tail.










Sources:

Club de l'Épagneul Breton of the United States. “Home.” Accessed May 23, 2026. https://www.ceb-us.com/.

Pheasants Forever. “American Brittany or French Brittany?” Accessed May 23, 2026. https://www.pheasantsforever.org/BlogLanding/Blogs/Nancy-Anisfield/American-Brittany-or-French-Brittany.aspx?feed=articles.

United Kennel Club. “Breed Standards: Epagneul Breton.” Accessed May 23, 2026. https://www.ukcdogs.com/epagneul-breton

Legendary Tails: Brittany17 juin 202600:14:24

Welcome back! This week, Seaira travels back in time to meet Franche du Cosquerou, a Brittany whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.











Sources:

Brittany Field Trial Hall of Fame. “Louis A. Thebaud.” Accessed May 23, 2026. https://www.brittanyfieldtrialhalloffame.com/People/LouisAThebaud.htm.


Grokipedia. “Louis A. Thebaud.” Accessed May 23, 2026. https://grokipedia.com/page/louis_a_thebaud.


Wikipedia Contributors. “Louis A. Thebaud.” Wikipedia. Accessed May 23, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Louis_A._Thebaud.


New Jersey State Library. “Louis A. Thebaud Collection” (or the title listed in the repository record). Accessed May 23, 2026. https://dspace.njstatelib.org/items/ef1b6dba-01bb-47ef-bd4a-b7a826a71f24.


American Brittany Club. The American Brittany Magazine, June 1943. Accessed May 23, 2026. https://orig.theamericanbrittanyclub.org/Magazine/Published/1943/June.pdf.


American Brittany Club. The American Brittany Magazine, September 1949. Accessed May 23, 2026. https://orig.theamericanbrittanyclub.org/Magazine/Published/1949/September.pdf.


American Kennel Club. American Kennel Club Stud Book and Register, vol. 54, no. 1 (1937). Accessed May 23, 2026. https://archive.org/stream/sim_american-kennel-club-stud-book-register_1937-01-01_54_1/sim_american-kennel-club-stud-book-register_1937-01-01_54_1_djvu.txt.


Pedigree Online. “Perlic de Pradalan.” Accessed May 23, 2026. https://dogs.pedigreeonline.com/perlic-de-pradalan-raZSqs3r/pedigree.


Pedigree Online. “Antoinette de Bretaine.” Accessed May 23, 2026. https://dogs.pedigreeonline.com/antoinette-de-bretaine-7rBC0tbj/photos.

Brittany: Field-Tested Athlete with Family-Dog Charm10 juin 202600:43:12

Welcome back to The Breed Files Podcast! This week, we're taking a closer look at the Brittany. The Brittany is a high-energy sporting breed beloved for its intelligence, versatility, and unwavering devotion to its people. Whether they're working a field, competing in dog sports, or tagging along on your latest adventure, Brittanys approach life at full speed.

We're also excited to welcome our very first guest star, Hailey Gould, whose extensive experience with the breed brings valuable insight into what makes Brittanys so special. From their history as skilled bird dogs to their affectionate nature at home, we cover the traits, challenges, and joys that come with sharing your life with one.

Looking for a dog that's equal parts athlete, hunting partner, and loyal sidekick? The Brittany may be exactly what you're searching for.










Sources:

American Brittany Club. “History of the Brittany.” PDF document. Accessed May 10, 2026. https://theamericanbrittanyclub.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/12/History-of-the-Brittany.pdf.

American Brittany Club. “The American Brittany Club.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://theamericanbrittanyclub.org/.

American Brittany Rescue. “American Brittany Rescue.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://americanbrittanyrescue.org/.

American Kennel Club. “Brittany.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/brittany/.

American Kennel Club. “Official Standard for the Brittany.” PDF document. Accessed May 10, 2026. https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Brittany.pdf.

Cindra Kennels. “Brittany.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://cindra.net/pages/brittany.

Club de l’Épagneul Breton of the United States. “Club de l’Épagneul Breton of the United States.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.ceb-us.com/.

Embark Veterinary, Inc. “Brittany.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://embarkvet.com/resources/dog-breeds/brittany/.

Gun Dog Magazine. “In-Depth with the French Brittany.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.gundogmag.com/editorial/in-depth-with-the-french-brittany/176218.

National Brittany Rescue and Adoption Network. “Available Brittanys.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://nbran.org/available-brittanys.

Pheasants Forever. “Medium Size, Full Force: The Brittany.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.pheasantsforever.org/BlogLanding/Blogs/Nancy-Anisfield/Medium-Size-Full-Force-The-Brittany.aspx.

Wikipedia Contributors. “Brittany Spaniel.” Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia. Accessed May 10, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brittany_Spaniel.


Legendary Tails: Pharaoh Hound03 juin 202600:12:15

Welcome back! This week, McKay travels back in time to meet Abuwtiyuw, a Pharaoh Hound whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

“Abuwtiyuw.” Wikipedia. Accessed May 3, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abuwtiyuw.“Sixth Dynasty of Egypt.” Wikipedia. Accessed May 3, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sixth_Dynasty_of_Egypt.“Bronze Age.” Wikipedia. Accessed May 3, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bronze_Age.“Dog.” Global Egyptian Museum. Accessed May 3, 2026. https://www.globalegyptianmuseum.org/glossary.aspx?id=204.King, Arienne. “Pets in Ancient Egypt: Life Was Hard. Really Easy.” JSTOR Daily, February 7, 2018. Accessed May 3, 2026. https://daily.jstor.org/pets-ancient-egypt-life-hard-really-easy/.Dogs in Ancient Egypt [video]. YouTube. Accessed May 3, 2026. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5ibBmhux2HI.

Pharaoh Hound: Desert Royalty with Couch Privileges27 mai 202600:37:41

Welcome back to The Breed Files Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know about the Pharaoh Hound. Known for their sleek build, oversized ears, and striking amber eyes, these ancient-looking dogs are equal parts elegance and goofball. But there’s more to them than their regal appearance. Athletic, sensitive, and fiercely independent, we explore the breed’s fascinating history, standout traits, and what everyday life with a Pharaoh Hound is really like. Thinking about a dog that can sprint like an athlete, lounge like royalty, and occasionally act like a mischievous comedian? Don’t mind a companion that’s affectionate but definitely has a mind of its own? This might just be the breed for you!










Sources:

Pharaoh Hound Club. “Pharaoh Hound Club.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://ph-club.org/.

American Kennel Club. “Pharaoh Hound.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pharaoh-hound/.

United Kennel Club. “Pharaoh Hound.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.ukcdogs.com/pharaoh-hound.

American Kennel Club. “Epic Rescue of 25 Pharaoh Hounds.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/family-dog/epic-rescue-of-25-pharaoh-hounds/?utm_source=chatgpt.com.

Wisdom Panel. “Pharaoh Hound.” Accessed May 10, 2026. https://www.wisdompanel.com/en-us/dog-breeds/pharaoh-hound.

Legendary Tails: Dachshund20 mai 202600:12:53

Welcome back! This week, Seaira travels back in time to meet Lump (pronounced "loomp"), a dachshund whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

  1. Pablo Picasso. “Pablo Picasso.” In Encyclopaedia Britannica. Accessed May 1, 2026. Britannica.

  2. Milmo, Cahal. “How Picasso Fell for a Dachshund.” The Independent, February 14, 2006. Accessed May 1, 2026. The Independent.

  3. Picasso and Lump. New York: Thames & Hudson, 2006. Accessed May 1, 2026. Google Books.

  4. “Picasso & Lump.” Wikipedia. Accessed May 1, 2026. Wikipedia article on Picasso & Lump.

  5. “Lump (Dog).” Wikipedia. Accessed May 1, 2026. Wikipedia article on Lump the dog.

  6. David Douglas Duncan. “David Douglas Duncan.” In Encyclopaedia Britannica. Accessed May 1, 2026. Britannica biography of David Douglas Duncan.

Dachshund: Built Low, Packed with Personality14 mai 202600:45:59

Welcome back to The Breed Files Podcast! In this episode, we’re digging into everything you need to know about the Dachshund! Famous for their long bodies, short legs, and larger-than-life personalities, these little hounds were built to be fearless hunters, but today they’re just as likely to burrow under your blankets as they are to chase down a scent trail. Stubborn, clever, and incredibly devoted to their people, we explore their bold badger-hunting origins, signature traits, and what everyday life with a Dachshund is really like. Thinking about a small dog with a huge personality? Don’t mind a companion that’s equal parts snuggle expert, comedian, and determined troublemaker? This might just be the breed for you!










Sources:

Music:

"The Anxiaty Of The Forest" by LaFaena. Free Music Archive. licensed under Attribution 4.0 International License.

Legendary Tails: Yorshire Terrier06 mai 202600:18:10

Welcome back! This week, McKay travels back in time to meet Smoky, a Yorkshire Terrier whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

“Papua New Guinea.” Wikipedia. Accessed April 5, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Papua_New_Guinea.

“Smoky (War Dog).” Wikipedia. Accessed April 5, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoky_(war_dog).

“War Dogs Come in Different Sizes: The WWII Story of a Yorkshire Terrier Named Smoky.” WW2 History. Accessed April 5, 2026. https://ww2history.org/war-in-the-pacific/war-dogs-come-in-different-sizes-the-wwii-story-of-a-yorkshire-terrier-named-smoky/.

Stilwell, Blake. “The World’s First Therapy Dog Was a World War II Pacific Veteran.” Military.com. Accessed April 5, 2026. https://www.military.com/history/worlds-first-therapy-dog-was-world-war-ii-pacific-veteran.html.

Frankel, Rebecca. “Dogs at War: Smoky, a Healing Presence for Wounded WWII Soldiers.” National Geographic. Published May 22, 2014. Accessed April 5, 2026. https://www.nationalgeographic.com/history/article/140520-dogs-war-canines-soldiers-military-healing-yorkshire-terrier-smoky

Yorkshire Terrier: Silk, Steel, and Small Dog Energy29 avr. 202600:56:07

Welcome back to The Breed Files Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know about the Yorkshire Terrier! Known for their silky coats, tiny frames, and surprisingly bold personalities, these little dogs pack a whole lot of attitude into a small package. But there’s more to them than just their glamorous looks. Brave, loyal, and full of terrier tenacity, we explore their working-class origins, standout traits, and what everyday life with a Yorkie is really like. Thinking about a pint-sized companion with big energy? Don’t mind a dog that’s equal parts cuddle bug and sassy tyrant? This might just be the breed for you!










Sources:

American Kennel Club. “Yorkshire Terrier.” Accessed April 18, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/yorkshire-terrier/

Encyclopaedia Britannica. “Yorkshire Terrier.” Last modified February 20, 2026. Accessed April 18, 2026. https://www.britannica.com/animal/Yorkshire-Terrier-dog

Guinness World Records. “Smallest Dog Ever.” Accessed April 18, 2026. https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/world-records/70527-smallest-dog-ever

Yorkshire Terrier Club of America. “About YTCA.” Accessed April 18, 2026. https://www.yorkshireterrierclubofamerica.org/

Legendary Tails: French Bulldog22 avr. 202600:15:18

Welcome back! This week, Seaira travels back in time to meet Gamin de Pycombe, a French Bulldog whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

“Dogs of the Titanic.” Loades of History. Accessed March 28, 2026. https://loadesofhistory.substack.com/p/dogs-of-the-titanic.

“The Frenchie and the Titanic.” National Purebred Dog Day. Accessed March 28, 2026. https://nationalpurebreddogday.com/the-frenchie-and-the-titanic/.

French Bulldog: From Rags to Riches15 avr. 202600:59:26

Welcome back to The Breed Files Podcast! In this episode, we’re diving into everything you need to know about the French Bulldog! Known for their bat-like ears, squishy faces, and big personalities, these charming little dogs have taken the world by storm. But there’s more to them than just their adorable looks. Affectionate, playful, and sometimes a little stubborn, we explore their origins, unique traits, and what everyday life with a Frenchie is really like. Thinking about a low-energy companion who loves to be by your side? Don’t mind a dog with a bit of attitude and a lot of love to give? This might just be the breed for you!











Sources:

American Kennel Club. “French Bulldog History: A Complicated Past From Brothels to Royals.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/breed-history-french-bulldog/.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “FBDCA History.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/fbdcahistory/.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “A Look Back – FBDCA Article.” PDF. Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/01/A-look-back-FBDCA-article.pdf.

Wikipedia contributors. “French Bulldog.” Wikipedia. Accessed March 21, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/French_Bulldog.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “Breed Standard.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/breedstandard/.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “History of Color – FBDCA Standard.” PDF. Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/03/History-of-Color-FBDCA-Standard.pdf.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “Color.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/color/.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “Health.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/health/.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “Questions for Page.” PDF. Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/wp-content/uploads/2018/09/Questions-for-page.pdf.

Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine. “Cystinuria.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://www.vet.cornell.edu/departments-centers-and-institutes/riney-canine-health-center/canine-health-topics/cystinuria.

French Bull Dog Club of America. “Breeders.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://frenchbulldogclub.org/breeders/.

Legendary Tails: Dalmatian08 avr. 202600:08:28

Welcome back! This week, McKay travels back in time to meet Sparky the Fire Dog, a Dalmatian whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.

Dalmatian: The Equine ESA 01 avr. 202600:47:47

Welcome back! In this episode, we’re talking all about the Dalmatian! Famous for their iconic spots and ties to firehouses and popular movies, these eye-catching dogs are much more than their pop culture reputation. Energetic, intelligent, and sometimes a bit stubborn, we dive into their history, purpose, and what it’s really like to live with one. Looking for a running partner with endless stamina? Don’t mind a dog that keeps you on your toes? This might just be the breed for you!












American Kennel Club. 2026a. “Dalmatian.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dalmatian/.

———. 2026b. “Dalmatian History: The Ancient Spotted Dog.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/dalmatian-history-ancient-spotted-dog/."Ancient Egypt" by Semion Krivenko-Adamov. Free Music Archive. licensed under Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivatives 4.0 International License.

Fédération Cynologique Internationale. 2026. “Dalmatian (Standard No. 153).” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://www.fci.be/en/nomenclature/DALMATIAN-153.html.

Croatian History. 2026. “Dogs in Croatian History.” Accessed March 21, 2026. http://www.croatianhistory.net/etf/dogs.html.

World Association of For Dalmatian. 2026. “History.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://wafdal.org/history/.

Kulta. 2026. “The Dalmatian.” Accessed March 21, 2026. https://kulta.hr/en/the-dalmatian/

Designer Breeds: Dream Dogs or Designer Disasters?25 mars 202600:51:56

Welcome back! In this episode, we dive into the world of designer mix dogs! Think doodles, puggles, pomskis, and more. With eye-catching marketing and big promises about temperament, health, and appearance, do these trendy hybrids really live up to the hype? We break it all down, exploring the realities behind the buzz and what potential owners should know before bringing one home. Tune in for an honest, insightful conversation you won’t want to miss.












Ackerman, L., Milne, E.G., Bell, J.S., Oberbauer, A.M., Nicholas, J.C., Boss, N., Englar, R.E., Grubb, T., Dowling, P., Burns, K.M. and Haeussler, D.J., Jr. (2021). Hereditary Considerations. In Pet-Specific Care for the Veterinary Team, L. Ackerman (Ed.). https://doi.org/10.1002/9781119540687.ch3

American Kennel Club. “Hypoallergenic Dogs.” Accessed February 21, 2026.https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/hypoallergenic-dogs/

American Veterinary Medical Association. “Dog Bite Prevention.” Accessed February 21, 2026.https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention

American Veterinary Medical Association. “Why Breed-Specific Legislation Is Not the Answer.” Accessed February 21, 2026.https://www.avma.org/resources-tools/pet-owners/dog-bite-prevention/why-breed-specific-legislation-not-answer

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. “Preventing Dog Bites.” Accessed February 21, 2026.https://www.cdc.gov/healthy-pets/about/dogs.html

Diesel, G., J. Pfeiffer, and D. Brodbelt. “Characteristics of Relinquished Dogs and Their Owners at 14 Rehoming Centers in the United Kingdom.” Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science 13, no. 1 (2010): 15–30.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/20017043/

Evans, Howard E., and Alexander de Lahunta. Miller’s Anatomy of the Dog. 4th ed. St. Louis: Elsevier Saunders, 2013.https://www.elsevier.com/books/millers-anatomy-of-the-dog/evans/9780323266239

Ilska, Joanna, et al. “Genetic Characterization of Dog Personality Traits.” Genetics 206, no. 2 (2017): 1101–1111.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5487251/#s13

Knowler, S. P., et al. “Inheritance of Chiari-Like Malformation in Cavalier King Charles Spaniels.” The Veterinary Journal 223 (2017): 1–5.https://doi.org/10.1016/j.tvjl.2009.10.022

Kwan, Jessica Y., and Melissa J. Bain. “Owner Attachment and Problem Behaviors Related to Relinquishment and Training Techniques of Dogs.” Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science 16, no. 2 (2013): 168–183.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23544756/

Nap, R. C., et al. “Growth and Skeletal Development in Great Dane Pups Fed Different Levels of Protein Intake.” The Journal of Nutrition 123, no. 6 (1993): 1076–1084.https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0022316622179848?via%3Dihub

O’Neill, Daniel G., et al. “Epidemiology of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Disease in Dogs Attending Primary-Care Veterinary Practices in England.” Canine Medicine and Genetics 9, no. 1 (2022).https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/vsu.12349

Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. “Hip Dysplasia.” Accessed February 21, 2026.https://ofa.org/diseases/hip-dysplasia/

Patronek, Gary J., et al. “Co-Occurrence of Potentially Preventable Factors in 256 Dog Bite–Related Fatalities in the United States (2000–2009).” Journal of the American Veterinary Medical Association 243, no. 12 (2013): 1726–1736.https://avmajournals.avma.org/view/journals/javma/243/12/javma.243.12.1726.xml

Salman, M. D., et al. “Behavioral Reasons for Relinquishment of Dogs and Cats to 12 Shelters.” Journal of Applied Animal Welfare Science 1, no. 3 (1998): 207–226.https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1207/S15327604JAWS0302_2

Zapata, Isabel, et al. “Genetic Mapping of Canine Fear and Aggression.” BMC Genomics 17 (2016): 572.https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4977763/

Legendary Tails: Barbet18 mars 202600:11:43

Welcome back! This week, Seaira travels back in time to meet the Moustache, a Barbet whose life helped define the breed and earn their place in history.











Cooper, Jilly. Animals in War. London: Corgi Books, 1983.

Kistler, John M. Animals in the Military: From Hannibal’s Elephants to the Dolphins of the U.S. Navy. Santa Barbara, CA: ABC-CLIO, 2011.

Winegard, Timothy C. The Mosquito: A Human History of Our Deadliest Predator. New York: Dutton, 2019.

Service Historique de la Défense. French Army historical archives and regimental records. Vincennes, France.

Société Centrale Canine. Historical breed documentation and canine heritage publications relating to French dog breeds including the Barbet.

French regimental memoir collections from the nineteenth century.

Post-Napoleonic French military anecdote compilations.

Articles in French historical journals discussing regimental mascots and military animals.

French canine history texts discussing early water dog breeds and their historical roles.

“Monsters of the Past” by Paweł Feszczuk. Free Music Archive. Licensed under CC BY 4.0 (Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International).

“Run With a Power of a Thousand Soldiers” by Paweł Feszczuk. Free Music Archive. Licensed under CC BY 4.0 (Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International).

“Peace Within” by Peter Rudenko. Free Music Archive. Licensed under CC BY 4.0 (Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International).

“In Search of Lost Lover” by Livio Amato. Free Music Archive. Licensed under CC BY 4.0 (Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 International).

Barbet: Better than a doodle?11 mars 202600:37:25

Welcome back! In this episode, we are talking about the Barbet! Never heard of it? You're not alone! Though uncommon, these affectionate water dogs deserve their recognition. Goofy, loving, and excellent companions, we dive deep into their purpose, history, and the reality of living with one. Do you love brushing your dog? Do you hate going to the bathroom alone? This may be the perfect breed for you!










Barbet Club of America. “Barbet.” Accessed February 18, 2026. https://www.barbetclubofamerica.com/barbet

American Kennel Club. “Meet the Newest AKC-Recognized Breed: Barbet.” Accessed February 18, 2026. https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/barbet-2020-new-akc-recognized-breed/

American Kennel Club. Official Standard for the Barbet. Accessed February 18, 2026. https://images.akc.org/pdf/breeds/standards/Official_Standard_for_the_Barbet.pdf

American Kennel Club. “Barbet.” Accessed February 18, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/barbet/

“French Toast” by Johnathon M. Horner (Beat Mekanik). Free Music Archive. Licensed under CC BY 4.0 (Creative Commons 4.0 International).

Olsen Veterinary Clinic. “Dr. Olsen’s Breed Spotlight: Barbet.” March 7, 2018. Accessed February 18, 2026. https://olsenvet.com/2018/03/07/dr-olsens-breed-spotlight-barbet/

Orthopedic Foundation for Animals. “CHIC Program: Barbet.” Accessed February 18, 2026. https://ofa.org/chic-programs/browse-by-breed/?breed=BA

National Purebred Dog Day. “Barbet: Ancestor of Other Breeds We Love.” Accessed February 18, 2026. https://nationalpurebreddogday.com/barbet-ancestor-of-other-breeds-we-love/

Brain Talk: Canine Edition Part. 104 mars 202600:22:38

What's actually going on inside your dog's head? In this episode, we break down the basic structure of the canine brain, how it compares to the human brain, and why your dog experiences the world so differently than you do. From instinct and emotion to scent processing and decision-making, we explain the science behind canine behavior. Find out why your dog isn't thinking the way you think they are.











Sources:

Andics, Attila, et al. “Voice-Sensitive Regions in Dog and Human Brains.” Current Biology (2014). Reported in ScienceDaily. https://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2020/07/200720112216.htm


Andics, Attila, et al. “Dogs and Humans Use the Same Brain Areas for Emotion Processing.” LiveScience, 2014.


Barton, S. A., et al. “Brain–Behavior Differences in Premodern and Modern Lineages of Domestic Dogs.” Journal of Neuroscience, 2025. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/40404355/


Boch, M., C. Lamm, and L. Huber. “Functionally Analogous Body-Responsive Areas in Dogs and Humans.” Communications Biology, 2023.


Cleveland Clinic. “Brainstem.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/21598-brainstem


———. “Cerebellum.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23418-cerebellum


———. “Cerebrum.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/23083-cerebrum


———. “Limbic System.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/limbic-system


Hecht, Erin E., et al. “Significant Neuroanatomical Variation among Domestic Dog Breeds.” Journal of Neuroscience 39, no. 39 (2019): 7748–7758. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31477568/


Hecht, Erin E., et al. “Functional MRI in Awake Dogs Shows Limbic System Variation across Breeds.” Science Advances 4, no. 5 (2018): eaap9898. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29662132/


Piras, Federica, et al. “Brain Structure Differences across Dog Breeds Measured by MRI.” Brain Structure and Function 219 (2014): 201–212. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23996299/


Ravignani, Andrea, et al. “Study Finds the Brains of Modern Dog Breeds Are Larger than Those of Ancient Breeds.” Phys.org, May 2023. https://phys.org/news/2023-05-brains-modern-dog-larger-ancient.html


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Legendary Tails: Australian Cattle Dog25 févr. 202600:07:37

Welcome back! This week, McKay travels back in time to meet two Australian Cattle Dogs whose lives helped define the breed and earn their place in history.










Sources:

Australian Cattle Dog Club of America. “Coat Color.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://www.acdca.org/coat-color/


ABC News. “Bluey, Rochester Dog, Reclaims Guinness World Record as Oldest Dog.” March 3, 2024. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2024-03-03/bluey-rochester-dog-reclaims-guinness-world-record-as-oldest-dog/103513372


Guinness World Records. “World’s Oldest Animals — Cats, Dogs, Deep Sea Creatures and More.” October 2021. https://www.guinnessworldrecords.com/news/2021/10/worlds-oldest-animals-cats-dogs-deep-sea-creatures-and-more-678003


National Purebred Dog Day. “The Glow of Moonlight on an ACD.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://nationalpurebreddogday.com/the-glow-of-moonlight-on-an-acd/


No Dramas. “History of the Australian Cattle Dog.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://www.nodramas.eu/english/acd/history.html


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Wikipedia. “Bluey (Long-Lived Dog).” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bluey_(long-lived_dog)

Australian Cattle Dog: The Post Apocalyptic Companion19 févr. 202600:24:59

Welcome back! In this episode, we’re diving into the Australian Cattle Dog. This breed is one of the most intelligent, intense, and misunderstood out there. Known for their loyalty and work ethic, these dogs are often labeled as “great family pets”… but that label comes with a lot of fine print. We’re breaking down what living with a cattle dog actually looks like, who they thrive with, and why this breed is incredible for the right person. And a total nightmare for the wrong one.











Sources:


Australian Cattle Dog Club of America. “Breed History.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://www.acdca.org/breed-history/


Australian Cattle Dog Club of America. “Illustrated Standard.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://www.acdca.org/illustrated-standard/


American Kennel Club. “Australian Cattle Dog.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/australian-cattle-dog/


Petfinder. “Australian Cattle Dog.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://www.petfinder.com/dog-breeds/australian-cattle-dog/


Australian Broadcasting Corporation. “The History of the Australian Cattle Dog.” October 25, 2018. https://www.abc.net.au/news/2018-10-25/history-of-the-australian-cattle-dog/10390626


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CattleDogWorld. “Is the Australian Cattle Dog a Good Family Dog?” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://cattledogworld.com/australian-cattle-dog-a-good-family-dog/


BMC Veterinary Research. “Genetic and Health Study on Australian Cattle Dogs.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://bmcvetres.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/1746-6148-8-202


Espree. “Australian Cattle Dog Grooming, Bathing, and Care.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://www.espree.com/BreedProfiler/australian-cattle-dog-grooming-bathing-and-care


Australian Dictionary of Biography. “Hall, Thomas Simpson (1808–1870).” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://adb.anu.edu.au/biography/hall-thomas-simpson-3696


Dog Breeds Expert. “Blue Heeler Dog.” Accessed February 21, 2026. http://www.dog-breeds-expert.com/blue-heeler-dog.html


BarkHow. “Australian Cattle Dog Origins.” Accessed February 21, 2026. https://barkhow.com/australian-cattle-dog-origins/

How to Pick a Dog Breeder: Your Puppy Came from Where?11 févr. 202600:34:01

Not every breeder with cute photos and a waitlist is doing things right. In this episode, McKay and Seaira walk you through how to vet a breeder properly, and what ethical breeders do and don't do. If you're thinking about buying a puppy, this episode might change your mind about where to look. Why? Because your future dog deserves better.

How to Pick a Dog Breed (Without Ruining Your Life)04 févr. 202600:27:02

Hi! Welcome back to The Breed Files podcast! This is Seaira and McKay, here to talk about how to pick a breed of dog (without ruining your life). We give you the reality of what picking a breed that fits your lifestyle looks like- and the questions you should be asking yourself before you do. We hope this episode helps guide you to your perfect fit!

The Humans at the End of the Leash: An Introduction to Us04 févr. 202600:21:11

Welcome to The Breed Files podcast! In this episode, we meet our hosts, Seaira and McKay. We're two friends who are obsessed with dogs, and a little tired of the misinformation around them. We're breaking down all things dog, including what they're really like, what they need, and who they're actually a good fit for. We hope you enjoy and join us for future episodes!

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