Doggone History

About 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.

Publisher

Rich Napolitano

Category

history · kids & family

Language

en

Explicit

No

First episode

16 Mar 2026

Latest episode

9 Sept 2026

Latest episodes

18 episodes in the feed.

1. 

   9 Sept 2026

   Jack Russell Terriers: The Sporting Parson's Legacy

   Commonly called Jack Russell Terriers, Parson Russell Terriers, or just Russell Terriers, these feisty and energetic terriers were bred for the hunt. They're twelve pounds of pure nerve, born from one Devonshire clergyman's obsession with fox hunting. This week on Doggone History, we trace the Jack Russell Terrier back to a chance encounter outside Oxford in 1819, when Reverend John "Jack" Russell bought a dairyman's terrier and unknowingly founded one of the world's most recognizable breeds. 📝 Transcripts and past episodes: ⁠⁠doggonehistory.com⁠⁠ Written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

2. 

   26 Aug 2026

   Welsh Corgis

   Ever wonder how the short-legged, big-eared Welsh Corgi became one of the world's most beloved dog breeds? And actually that is TWO breeds! The Pembroke Welsh Corgi and the Cardigan Welsh Corgi. In this episode of Doggone History, host Rich Napolitano digs into the fascinating origins of both breeds, from their ancient herding roots in Wales to their rise as a favorite of British royalty. Learn about the breed's unique physical traits, working-dog heritage, and how it captured hearts (and internet memes) around the globe. Perfect for dog owners, breeders, and animal lovers who want the full story behind this pint-sized powerhouse breed. 📝 Transcripts and past episodes: ⁠doggonehistory.com⁠ Written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

3. 

   12 Aug 2026

   Dachshunds: The Badger Dogs

   Doggone History: Dachshunds: The Badger Dogs They're low to the ground, long in the body, and utterly convinced they run the household. But where did the dachshund actually come from? This week on Doggone History, host Rich Napolitano digs into the surprisingly fierce backstory of one of the world's most recognizable breeds. Long before they were curled up on couches and starring in wiener dog races, dachshunds were bred in Germany for a seriously gutsy job: tunneling underground to hunt badgers. In fact, their name literally translates to "badger dog." We'll trace how these tenacious little diggers evolved from tough hunting companions into royal favorites (Queen Victoria was a fan), how anti-German sentiment during World War I nearly tanked the breed's popularity in the U.S. Along the way, we'll cover the standard vs. miniature debate, the three coat types, and how the dachshund became a beloved household name. Whether you own one, love one, or just appreciate a dog with more personality than legroom, this episode has something for you. 📝 Transcripts and past episodes: doggonehistory.com Written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

4. 

   15 Jul 2026

   Golden Retrievers: Gentle Giants

   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 out to breed the perfect gundog for retrieving waterfowl on his sprawling estate. What he ended up creating was a dog so friendly, so trainable, and so photogenic that it would eventually conquer living rooms far beyond the Scottish moors. Hear how Golden Retrievers went from a working gundog to Kennel Club recognition, its arrival across the Atlantic, and how it became one of the most beloved breeds in the world, not to mention a Hollywood regular and a White House favorite. Along the way: a few myths debunked, a lot of tail wags, and the answer to why Goldens seem constitutionally incapable of holding a grudge. Grab your good boy (or girl) and settle in — it's time to fetch some history. 🐾 New episodes every Wednesday. Full episode and transcript at doggonehistory.com. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

5. 

   1 Jul 2026

   Border Collies: The World's Smartest Dogs

   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 History, Rich digs into the fascinating story of the Border Collie, from the rugged hills dividing England and Scotland where the breed was shaped into the ultimate herding machine, to the legendary 1893 dog named Old Hemp who is considered the father of the modern Border Collie. We'll explore how their intense, hypnotic stare they use to control livestock, the iconic "eye", became one of the most recognizable traits in the canine world. Whether you're a proud Border Collie owner, a sheep farmer with a trusted four-legged partner, or just someone who has ever been humbled by a dog on YouTube herding ducks, this episode is for you. Written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Original theme music by Rich Napolitano. https://www.doggonehistory.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

6. 

   17 Jun 2026

   Shih Tzus: China's Little Lions

   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

7. 

   3 Jun 2026

   Beagles: The Sniffer Dogs

   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

8. 

   20 May 2026

   Affenpinschers: The Monkey Dogs

   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, its role as a working dog in German homes and shops, how breeders refined the breed into the compact companion we know today, and the Affenpinscher's long road to recognition by the American Kennel Club. Bold, curious, and endlessly entertaining — the Affenpinscher may be small, but its history is anything but. 🎙️ New episodes every Wednesday. Find transcripts and all episodes at doggonehistory.com. 🎧 Listen on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora, Castbox, Pocket Casts, and all major podcast platforms. 📱 Follow Doggone History on Instagram, Threads, Facebook, Bluesky, and YouTube @doggonehistorypodcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

9. 

   13 May 2026

   German Shepherds: The World's Most Trusted Dogs

   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 living room couch. Discover how cavalry captain Max von Stephanitz set out to create the perfect working dog in 1899 and ended up shaping a breed that would change the world. And how Rin Tin Tin, a puppy rescued from a WWI battlefield, turned the breed into an international sensation and arguably saved an entire Hollywood studio. We'll explore how the breed survived two World Wars (including a reputation-saving name change in the United States), why they remain the go-to choice for police and military K-9 units around the globe, and what makes the German Shepherd's intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability so extraordinary even today. Whether you're a proud GSD owner, a breed enthusiast, or just someone who's ever admired one trotting confidently past you on a leash, this episode is for you. 🐾 New episodes every Wednesday. 📖 Full transcripts available at doggonehistory.com 🎙️ Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora, Castbox, Pocket Casts, and all major podcast platforms. Follow Doggone History: 🔵 Bluesky: @doggonehistory.bsky.social 📸 Instagram: @doggonehistorypodcast 🧵 Threads: @doggonehistorypodcast 📘 Facebook: facebook.com/shipwreckspod ▶️ YouTube: youtube.com/@doggonehistory Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

10. 

    6 May 2026

    Old English Sheepdog: The Shaggy History of the Bobtail Breed

    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 this rugged, hardworking drover's dog transformed into a show-ring star, winning over the Vanderbilts, Morgans, and Guggenheims along the way. Learn why their tails were bobbed, what the nickname "Bobtail" really means, and how the breed earned formal recognition from both the Kennel Club and the American Kennel Club. Plus, find out why Paul McCartney, a beloved paint company, and a classic Disney film all share a connection to this shaggy, lovable breed. Whether you're an Old English Sheepdog owner, a dog history buff, or just love learning about the breeds that shaped our world, this episode is for you. 🐾 New episodes every Wednesday 🎙️ Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, iHeart, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora, Castbox, Pocketcasts, and all major podcast platforms 🌐 Full episodes and transcripts at doggonehistory.com Doggone History is written, edited, and produced by Rich Napolitano. Featured on the cover image of this episode is "Nimue," an Old English Sheepdog I met in person in Palm Harbor, FL. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

11. 

    29 Apr 2026

    Border Terriers: The Lovable Workhorse

    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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

12. 

    21 Apr 2026

    French Bulldogs: Adorable Clowns

    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 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

13. 

    15 Apr 2026

    Vizslas: The Velcro Dogs

    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

14. 

    8 Apr 2026

    Scottish Terriers: The Diehards

    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! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

15. 

    1 Apr 2026

    Chihuahuas: Tiny Dogs With a Giant Legacy

    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

16. 

    1 Apr 2026

    Salukis: Ancient Hunters of the Middle East

    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 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

17. 

    1 Apr 2026

    Labrador Retrievers: From Fishing Boats to Suburban Sofas

    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. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

18. 

    16 Mar 2026

    Introducing Doggone History!

    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 about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Reach and audience

Public platform figures. Ratings count people who left a rating, not total listeners.

Apple Podcasts (US)

5.0 / 5

5 ratings

Spotify

5.0 / 5

7 ratings

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