New Hampshire State Dog - Chinook

In 2009, the Chinook became the official state dog of New Hampshire.  The breed was developed by blending  a Mastiff, Greenland Husky, and Belgian Shepherds.  The goal was to create a working dog breed that was a good family pet and a good sled dog.  The Chinook is a powerful athletic sled dog.

Massachusetts State Dog - Boston Terrier

In 1979, the Boston Terrier became the state dog of Massachusetts.  It is a cross between an English Bulldog and an English Terrier.  The Boston Terrier was the first pure-bred dog developed in the United States in 1869.

Maryland's State Dog - Chesapeake Bay Retriever

In 1964, the Chesapeake Bay Retriever was named the state dog of Maryland.  The history of the breed dates back to 1807.  Two Newfoundland dogs (Sailor and Canton) were rescued from a ship.  These two dogs were later bred to local coon hounds and retrievers.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the official mascot for the University of Maryland Baltimore County.

The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is also known as Chessie.  The breed is well known for their prowess in rough and icy waters.  Their colors are brown, sedge, or deadgrass.

Louisiana State Dog - Catahoula Leopard Dog

On July 9th, 1979, the Catahoula Leopard Dog became the official state dog of Louisiana.  It is the only breed of dog that is native to Louisiana.  It is most likely a cross between the domestics dogs of the Indians of the Catahoula Lake Region and dogs introduced into the area by the Spanish in the 1500's.  These dogs have glassy eyes, webbed feet, and a spotted coat.

Native American Indians used the Catahoula Leopard Dog to help them with hunting and tracking a variety of game.

More Info On Alaska's State Dog

Have you heard of the 1925 Serum Run?  In 1925, 20 mushers and approximately 150 sled dogs; transported a diphtheria antitoxin across the United States Territory of Alaska (674 miles) to the city of Nome.  This incredible feat was accomplished in 5 and half days.  This historic dog sled feat saved the city of Nome and the surrounding communities from a diphtheria epidemic.  The lead dog was named Balto; an Alaskan Malamute.

There is a statue in New York City's Central Park of Balto.

Alaska's State Dog - Alaskan Malamute

On April 18, 2010; the Alaskan Malamute became Alaska's State Dog.  The Alaskan Malmute has a very long history in the state of Alaska.  They are believed to have existed in the area some 5000 years.  The breed is perfectly adapted to the Alaskan climate.

They are named after the native Inuit tribe known as Mahlemuts.  The Mahlemuts settled around the Kotzebue Sound which is in the Arctic Circle.  The Alaskan Malamute has had a close relationship with the Inuit Tribe; pulling heavy sledges, hunting, and tracking.

State Dogs

Did you know that out of the 50 states that comprise the United States; only 11 states have state dogs?  Many times an elementary class is responsible for getting the public interested in adopting a state dog.  Here is a list of the 11 states that currently have a state dog:

1. Alaska - Alaskan Malamute
2. Louisiana - Catahoula Leopard Dog
3. Maryland - Chesapeake Bay Retriever
4. Massachusetts - Boston Terrier
5. New Hampshire - Chinook
6. North Carolina - Plott
7. Pennsylvania - Great Dane
8. South Carolina - Boykin Spaniel
9. Texas - Blue Lacy
10. Virginia - American Foxhound
11. Wisconsin - American Water Spaniel

Brandykegs will provide additional information on each one listed in future blogs.

Treeing Walker Coonhound

On January 1, 2012, AKC welcomed the Treeing Walker Coonhound to its recognized registered breed list; bringing AKC's total up to 174 recognized breeds.  They are a great hunter with superb endurance.  Their coat is short, tri-colored (white, black, and tan).

Saint Bernard Specialty Shows Today - Missouri

The St. Bernard Club of Greater St. Louis is hosting two Specialty Shows today.  The Specialty Shows will be held at Purina Farms, 200 Checkboard Dr., Gray Summit, Missouri.  Mr. Robert Aubrey will be judging the morning show and Mrs. Wanda B. Pevahouse will be judging the afternoon show.  Sweepstakes will be judged by Marguerite Yarnell.  Good luck to all exhibitors from Brandykegs!

New Product Item At Brandykegs

New product at Brandykegs; hand-stitched mat with our favorite Saint Bernard breed all decked out in green for Saint Patrick's Day.