Did you know several states have official state dogs? Celebrate this 4th!
July 02, 2011 • Trends •
From Alaska all the way to Wisconsin, many states show off their love of dogs by giving them official status. To celebrate the Fourth of July and the New York City return of AKC Meet the Breeds® – the world’s largest gathering of cats and dogs – the American Kennel Club (AKC®) takes a look at some of these official dogs and what makes them so special.
Maryland: Maryland was the first state to honor a dog with an official title. In 1964, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever became the state dog of Maryland. The breed is popular with hunters for its ability to retrieve birds in water such as geese and ducks. They are happy, intelligent, and courageous dogs that love water. They do best with active, outdoor-loving families.
Alaska: The newest dog to receive an official title is the Alaskan Malamute. Named the state dog of Alaska in 2010 after young students petitioned for it, the Alaskan Malamute is an American breed named after the Inuit tribe called the Mahlemuts that settled in Alaska. Historically, they were very valuable work dogs because they could carry heavy loads over long distances in the Arctic’s harsh environment. Today, Alaskan Malamutes are affectionate and friendly family pets.
Massachusetts: Truly an American dog, the Boston Terrier was the first purebred dog in the U.S. and was designated the state dog of Massachusetts in 1979. Boston Terriers are lively and extremely intelligent. They have a gentle disposition and make wonderful pets. They require a moderate amount of exercise, are simple to groom, and easy to train.
South Carolina: The Boykin Spaniel was named the state dog of South Carolina, the state where it originated, in 1985. Boykin Spaniels have a very cheerful and energetic personality. They are medium-sized, all-around hunting dogs. Because they were bred to work with hunters all day, they fit in best with an active family. The breed loves companionship and enjoys the company of kids and other dogs.
Virginia: The American Foxhound was designated the state dog of Virginia in 1966. One of the rarest of America’s native breeds, the American Foxhound was originally bred for fox hunting. They are easygoing dogs that get along well with children. They were bred to run, so American Foxhounds need exercise to keep them happy. Because they can be stubborn, persistence is needed when training.
Wisconsin: The citizens of Wisconsin named the American Water Spaniel their state dog in 1985. They are the only breed native to the state. They were originally bred as an all-around hunter that could retrieve from boats. While they still enjoy hunting today, they are also excellent family dogs. Since they are very energetic, they do require daily exercise, but they also love hanging out with their family. American Water Spaniels are friendly and eager to please and respond well to training.
Additional state dogs include:
Louisiana: Cathoula Leopard Dog
New Hampshire: Chinook
North Carolina: Plott
Pennsylvania: Great Dane
Texas: Blue Lacy
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