Many things make America great, and our furry friends are one of them!
Thirteen U.S. states have designated an official state dog breed. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever was chosen as Maryland’s state symbol in 1964, becoming the first state to do so.
In 1965, the state of Pennsylvania named the Great Dane its official breed. The majority of dog breeds are linked to the states in which they were developed. North Carolina chose the Plott Hound since it was the only native breed in the state.
The Boston Terrier (Massachusetts) and the Alaskan Malamute (Alaska) are two other official state dogs that are indigenous to their region. The Great Dane was not chosen because of its origin, but because it was introduced by early settlers of the state as a hunting and working dog; it was selected over the Beagle.
List of State Dogs
| State | Dog breed | Year of designation |
|---|---|---|
| Alaska | Alaskan Malamute | 2010 |
| Delaware | Golden Retriever | 2016 |
| Louisiana | Catahoula Leopard dog | 1979 |
| Maryland | Chesapeake Bay Retriever | 1964 |
| Massachusetts | Boston Terrier | 1979 |
| New Hampshire | Chinook | 2009 |
| North Carolina | Plott Hound | 1989 |
| Pennsylvania | Great Dane | 1965 |
| South Carolina | Boykin Spaniel | 1985 |
| Tennessee | Bluetick Coonhound | 2019 |
| Texas | Blue Lacy | 2005 |
| Virginia | American Foxhound | 1966 |
| Wisconsin | American Water Spaniel | 1985 |
Learn about other Dog Breeds from USA
State Dog of Alaska – Alaskan Malamute
After a group of kindergarten students were encouraged by their school to successfully propose the concept to the state legislature, Alaska designated this breed as its state dog in 2010.
The Alaskan Malamute is a large breed of dog used as a sled dog. They are also used as working dogs in many other ways. They were bred by the Mahlemut tribe of Alaska. These dogs have been used for centuries by the people of the Arctic region. Malamutes are still used as sled dogs today, but they are also popular as pets.
State Dog of Delaware – Golden Retriever
The Golden Retriever is a large breed of dog used for retrieving waterfowl and other game. The Golden Retriever is the state dog of Delaware. This breed was developed in Scotland, but it has been popular in the United States since the late 19th century. The Golden Retriever is known for its loyalty, obedience, and intelligence.
State Dog of Louisiana – Catahoula Leopard dog
The Catahoula Leopard Dog (also known as the Catahoula Leopard Cur) was recognized as the state dog breed in 1979. This dog was developed as a hunting and herding dog for the Louisiana bayous. In their native territory, Catahoulas are used to herding cattle, retrieving waterfowl, or hunting wild hogs.
State Dog of Maryland – Chesapeake Bay Retriever
The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is the state dog of Maryland. This breed was developed in the United States to be a working dog. The Chesapeake Bay Retriever is known for its hunting and fishing abilities. These dogs are also popular as pets.
State Dog of Massachusetts – Boston Terrier
The Boston Terrier is a breed of dog originating in the United States. This breed was originally bred to be a fighting dog, but it is now a gentle and loving companion dog. The Boston Terrier is the official state dog of Massachusetts.
State Dog of North Carolina – Plott Hound
The Plott Hound is a large scent hound, used for tracking and treeing game. The Plott Hound is the state dog of North Carolina. This breed was developed in the mountains of North Carolina by Johannes Georg Plott, a German immigrant. The Plott Hound is known for its determination, courage, and loyalty.