13 Official State Dogs of the USA
By Lucy Hughes | Reviewed by Pawrade Team
“It’s official – I love this dog!” E very puppy owner has experienced this moment of unconditional love for your pet. How about an entire state officially declaring its love for a particular dog breed? Dogs have played an integral part in the history of geographical areas’ developments. Official state dogs embody the qualities the state identifies with, traits like loyalty, steadfastness, dignity, and bravery. These characteristics of various state dogs have resulted in serving as popular canine mascots of local colleges and universities as well. Several of the official state dogs are dog breeds native to the United States, while others hail from areas around the world that have gained regional significance. Regardless of origin, these significant dogs were selected to represent their state for excellent reasons. Meet 13 of the nation’s official state dogs and learn about the qualities that make them perfect representatives of their unique geographical regions.
advocating for the Alaskan Malamute to become the state dog, but a child. Kindergartener Paige Hill led the campaign to convince Representative Berta Gardner to adopt a bill in 2009 in support of the breed. Paige’s efforts paid off when the Alaskan Malamute became the official state dog of Alaska in 2010.
While legislation is constantly being updated, these dog breeds have served current or past tenures as official state dogs. Let’s see what’s so impressive about each dog breed inspiring an entire state to represent their outstanding qualities.
Alaska: Alaskan Malamute
When someone thinks about Alaska’s unforgiving, harsh frozen terrain, sled dogs come to mind. Alaskans recognized how Arctic dogs’ incredible stamina, work ethic, physique, and speed could help move vital goods across the treacherous tundras. The Alaskan Malamute has its origins rooted in the Inuit people who relied on them for survival. Alaskan Malamutes were part of life-saving antidote runs to remote villages, saving hundreds of lives.
Louisiana: Catahoula Leopard Dog
Piercing eyes and beautiful coats make Catahoula Leopard Dogs a striking breed. This dog was named after the Catahoula Parish in Louisiana. “Catahoula” is a combined name with the Choctaw words for “sacred lake.” Boar hunters bred wolfdogs, Greyhounds, Mastiffs, and Bloodhounds to create a gorgeous dog with eye-catching colors and patterns prized for its active, hardworking, protective nature that’s also an all- around wonderful family dog.
It was not adults who began
13 Official State Dogs To Know About
Missouri Pet Breeders Association | Page 17
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