Can a dog use its ears to smell? Does this breed really sneeze in reverse? How did wrinkles and a magazine cover save this dog from extinction?
Can a dog use its ears to smell? Does this breed really sneeze in reverse? How did wrinkles and a magazine cover save this dog from extinction? On this episode of Dogs 101, take a walk in the paws of the Rottweiler, the Boston Terrier, the Basset Hound, the Shar-Pei, and the St. Bernard and get a dog's eye view at the incredible bond shared by people and their pups. *Featuring Rose McGowan on her Boston Terriers.
For even more dog content, stream full episodes of Dogs 101 on discovery+. Go to discoveryplus.com/dogs101 to start your free trial today. Terms apply.
Find episode transcript here: https://dogs-101.simplecast.com/episodes/rottweiler-boston-terrier-basset-hound-shar-pei-and-st-bernard
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HOST VO
How does this dog use its ears to smell? Does this hound have a sixth sense about avalanches? Why does this breed sneeze in reverse? How did wrinkles and a magazine save this dog from extinction? Dogs 101 celebrates man's best friend. Today, the Basset Hound, the Saint Bernard, the Shar-pei, the Boston Terrier. And we start with a dog that can make your insurance rates go up, the Rottweiler.
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HOST VO
The Rottweiler, so cute they write children's books about him, like Good Dog Carl. Or, the Rottweiler, a breed so dangerous it's one of the few breeds banned in some towns. Wait, these are the same dogs? These dogs are gentle, aggressive, sweet, protective. Huh? How is this possible? Well it is, and we’ll show you how this breed may be the most versatile breed around.
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TYSON KILMER VO/OC
This is a dog that, that needs a lot of work, you have to really be dedicated.
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ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC
You really do need to focus a lot on training and socialization
TYSON KILMER OC
But there’s something really magical about that animal.
HOST VO
The Rotties, as they are affectionately known, were bred to be fierce, aggressive guard dogs, but properly
trained, they can be pushovers.
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TYSON KILMER VO/OC
It’s a dog that can be absolutely ferocious and protective…
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TYSON KILMER OC/VO
…but the flip side of that personality is an absolute lover, a gentle giant, a warm beast.
HOST VO
How is it this dog can so magically be so fierce, and so friendly?
MALE IN BLUE SHORTS VO
Come on, come get it.
HOST VO
Well, for starters, the dog is smart. And that makes them easily trainable.
FEMALE IN BLACK PANTS VO
Kirsten and Cookie. Look at me.
TYSON KILMER VO/OC
This animal is not for everybody, this dog needs serious training, making sure it understands your lifestyle from a to z in terms of who’s coming, who’s going, who to be nice to, when it should be in protection mode and when it should definitely not be in protection mode. This is a fantastic dog if you do the right thing.
HOST VO
The other thing that makes these Rotties such versatile dogs is their heritage. They were bred to work for you…
MERCEDES BEDKE VO
Come on Buster.
HOST VO
…protect you and please you.
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HOST VO
As the working dogs of ancient Rome, they were originally bread to be herding and guard dogs. And they quickly became the favored, four-legged worker, guarding, herding, cart-pulling, wrangling, all the stuff of olden day living.
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HOST VO
Today these dogs are still no-nonsense creatures. Remember to tred with caution when first meeting a Rottweiler. Over a 20 year period, pure bread Rottweilers have been responsible for 16 percent of all dog related deaths in America, second only to the Pit-bull.
MALE IN BLUE SHORTS VO
No.
ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC
You need to make sure that you’re prepared to put in an enormous amount of energy and training when the dog is as young as possible, to make sure that while that dog still has the potential to protect their family, that it’s not a loaded gun.
TYSON KILMER OC/VO
It’s absolutely a majestic, loving creature, but when it’s in warrior mode, listen, this is a dog that has massive stopping power, and it's not afraid to use it.
HOST VO
Due to this reputation, some insurance companies still refuse coverage to Rottweiler owners.
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HOST VO
This herculean jaw is the most well-known characteristics of the Rotti.
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HOST VO
Stronger than a Pit-bull or German Shepherd. With 328 pounds of pressure per inch, the chomping power of this animal is massive. That power is all relative to skull size. The larger the skull, the stronger the bite, and Rotties have a big head.
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An instant Rottweiler giveaway is their coloring.
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HOST VO
Having no variation of color, their lips are always black, and so is their coat, with brown highlighting around the mouth, shoulders, and paws. Oh, and they have those cute circular brown eyebrows.
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HOST VO
Banned in the UK, the docking or clipping of a Rottie's tail is still widely practiced in the US, but now that pulling farm carts is not exactly necessary anymore, Rotties are getting their tails back.
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HOST VO
Unfortunately, due to over-breeding in the last 10 years, they have weak bones.
ANDREA ARDEN OC
They have a lot of problems now, a lot of hip problems and shoulder problems.
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HOST VO
Since Rottie pups will eat anything, it is easy to over feed them, but don’t. Too much protein equals growth spurts, which equals weak bones. But the real characteristic that Rotties are known for is loyalty. No joke, these guard dogs have your back.
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HOST VO
And in one very special case, the Rottweilers smarts, strength and loyalty were the difference between life and death.
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HOST VO
On a crisp spring day, little Mercedes Bedke, an active, smiling eight year old, had no idea her dog would save her life. It was lunchtime on this cattle ranch, in Oakley, Idaho, and like every other day, Mercedes was doing what a kid her age does, playing with her best friend.
MERCEDES BEDKE VO/OC
Buster’s my best friend because he’s fun to play with. He likes to run around, he likes to go in the cattle.
HOST VO
Buster, who had been adopted by the Bedkes three weeks earlier, had taken to Mercedes instantly. And from that day forward, they spent every minute together.
PHYLLIS BEDKE VO
Anything Mercedes wanted to go do, Buster was right with her.”
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HOST VO
That connection probably saved Mercedes' life. That afternoon, with Buster in tow, Mercedes decided to ride her horse.
MERCEDES BEDKE VO/OC
Well I was on my horse BJ and I was seeing how fast he could go.
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PHYLLIS BEDKE OC
The horse got running faster, trotting faster than she could handle and he slipped”
MERCEDES BEDKE OC
I flew off and hit the fence and then he stepped on my skull.
HOST VO
At that point Buster went blazing back to house and did everything he could to alert the rest of the Bedkes that something was very wrong.
PHYLLIS BEDKE OC
All of the sudden there was a big thump at the door.
HARLEY SANDERS OC
And there was Buster, not acting right, and I told Frank, I said, let’s go find her, something is not right.
HOST VO
Mercedes’ grandfather and great-grandfather, jumped in the truck and started to circle to the north of the property, but Buster knew she was in the other direction. He jumped and yelped and did all he could to get them to turn the pick up around and follow him.
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HARLEY SANDERS OC
He had enough sense to come to the door, he must know where he wants to go.
HOST VO
They reversed direction, and with in minutes…
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HOST VO
…found Mercedes. Had they not followed Buster, they would have taken another 30 minutes. Taken immediately into surgery to relieve the pressure on her brain, Mercedes doctors believed that had she arrived any later, she would not have lived.
PHYLLIS BEDKE OC
In my eyes, he’s more than a hero.
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HOST VO
Miraculously Mercedes made it out of surgery. After a three week hospital stay, months of physical therapy, teaching her how to talk and walk again, she is now a happy ten year old.
PHYLLIS BEDKE VO
If a dog could get something for being a hero, Buster would definitely deserve that reward.
MERCEDES BEDKE OC
Buster saved my life. I have billions of love for Buster.
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HOST VO
If Rottweilers are properly trained they'll do anything for you. Rottweilers can adapt to multiple physical environments.
TYSON KILMER OC
This is a rugged dog that can live in any kind of climate.”
HOST VO
As long as this dog can get out and exercise it can live in anywhere.
FEMALE IN BLACK PANTS VO
What are you doing?
HOST VO
Rottweilers have a double coat, so they're going to shed.
Yep, that black hair will get in every corner of house, unless you brush them often. Unfortunately, due to over-breeding in the last 10 years, they often have hip dysplasia and weak bones.
JONATHAN DAVID OC
These dogs are very eager to please and they’re very intelligent dogs.
HOST VO
While easy to train, the training is not optional. Remember, this will put the gentle in our little giant.
As a family dog, go in with your eyes wide open, Rottweilers need extra care. As pups, they need sensitizing to small children and strangers. Remember each individual dog is different, but in general the Rottweiler can live anywhere. They are not the healthiest and tend to have weak bones, and just need a daily brushing. Early training is not optional. They are good family dogs but be careful with strangers. If you want to adopt one, do your homework and select your dog with care, Rottweilers love to be your number one. Coming up on Dogs 101, the dog breed to save a skiers life, America's home grown favorite, the Boston Terrier causes a stir in Hollywood. The breed that was saved by a magazine cover, and the dog that was designed around a nose.
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HOST VO
The Boston Terrier is as American as apple pie. They’re the first breed developed in the United States that's recognized by the American Kennel Club.
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HOST VO
Born in Beantown, Boston Terriers are lively, highly intelligent, and people-loving dogs. They provide endless entertainment and delightful comradeship…
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…which makes the Boston Terrier wildly popular.
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HOST VO
So popular Toto, the dog in The Wizard of Oz, was a Boston Terrier in several editions of the book.
KATHY ESPOSITO OC/VO
They’re my ideal companion for sure. They’ve done nothing but inspire me and make me laugh.
ANDREA ARDEN OC/VO
I see a lot of Boston Terriers, it’s like one of the ost popular breeds.
FEMALE VOICE VO
Good boy Alvin.
TYSON KILMER OC/VO
It’s just a really fun dog to have around. Boundless energy. I love their attitude.
HOST VO
It’s not an asthma attack. Boston Terriers uniquely have what is called a reverse sneeze, a rapid repeated inhalation of breath through the nose to clear their passages.
ANDREA ARDEN OC/VO
Unfortunately we’ve bred dogs that can't really breath that well. Odds are you’re going to have related health issues.
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HOST VO
The Boston Terrier’s history dates back to 1865, when pit fighting was still popular. Coachmen, employed by wealthy Bostonians, began to crossbreed the swanky purebred dogs of their employers. The Boston Terrier is a cross between the English bulldog and the now extinct White English Terrier.
JONATHAN DAVID OC/VO
These dogs were originally bred as a fighting dog, and they’ve been bred down to what’s known today as just a really great companion dog.
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These companion dogs have very unique characteristics.
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HOST VO
First, they are known for their expressive faces. The second characteristic is their striking color pattern:
ROSE MCGOWEN OC/VO
Their nickname is the American gentleman, usually because they have these kind of perfect markings, and it looks like they’re wearing a tuxedo, hence the nickname.
HOST VO
Rose McGowen, the animal activist and actress, the star of the WB's Charmed and the blockbuster movie Scream is a Boston Terrier fanatic.
ROSE MCGOWEN OC/VO
Bostons are pure comedy and true love. They'll make you laugh all day long, they're better than any TV program. I think the best thing to describe them is incredibly sweet natured and very clown-like.
HOST VO
Their color pattern is brindle, black or seal with white markings.
Seal appears black but has a reddish cast when viewed in the sunlight. The face has a white band over the muzzle and a white blaze between the eyes, and the fore chest is also white. The Boston Terrier’s muzzle is short, square, wide and deep, in proportion to his skull.
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HOST VO
Ever wonder why these dogs can clear a room? Because of their short muzzles, they take in air when they eat, causing.
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TYSON KILMER OC
This is a dog that's going to fart.
ROSE MCGOWEN OC
They can be gassy because they do inhale a lot of air.
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HOST VO
The short muzzle is also responsible for snorting, grunting, and snoring.
TYSON KILMER OC
This is a dog that's going to snore.
HOST VO
Despite the Boston Terrier’s variety of sounds, they’re a dog that doesn’t usually bark unless necessary.
ROSE MCGOWAN OC
They only bark when you rile them up to play or when someone comes to the door, because they’re very, very good guard dogs.
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People are crazy about their Boston Terriers, and Boston Terriers are crazy about their people.
KATHY ESPOSITO OC
I’m completely bewitched and obsessed by them now. I, I just love them.
HOST VO
This breed has inspired a legion of dedicated fans.
ROSE MCGOWEN VO/OC
Shake. You drive all of your friends crazy with your fanaticism for the Boston. Good girl. They have great Boston Terrier kind of nick knacks out there. I keep it to one room in my house so I don’t look like the crazy Boston Terrier lady, even though people call me that anyway. I got my first Boston Terrier, Miss Bug McGowan, 12 years ago, and then I got Fester, the best man I've ever known. Six months later, and it has been a hardcore love affair ever since then.
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HOST VO
Rose was walking through a Hollywood mall when she found Bug in dire circumstances.
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ROSE MCGOWEN OC/VO
Her feet were kind of through these wire cages and her urine underneath. She just kind of looked about as underdog as you could get. That's right huh buddy?
HOST VO
Rose could not leave bug in that cage and took her home.
Six months later she saw Fester, and his condition was even worse.
ROSE MCGOWEN OC
Everybody thought he was going to die. He was very sick, and he had a piece of metal in his stomach.
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HOST VO
Rose strongly opposes purchasing any dog from a puppy store, but the dogs’ dire conditions pulled at her heartstrings.
ROSE MCGOWEN OC/VO
Had I not purchased Fester and, and Bug I don't think they would be alive. Fester and Bug had an immediate impact on my life. They kind of added an element of humanity to me that I didn't know I possessed.
HOST VO
Rose’s devotion for her dogs led her to a new calling. She rescues Boston Terriers.
ROSE MCGOWEN OC/VO
Boston rescue is a really important thing in my life, because you do feel like you're giving back to something that has given you so much love. I find rescues that need to do emergency surgeries on the dogs they've just taken in. They've either been horribly abused, or hit by a car. I like to finance those, to help them find their forever homes.
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HOST VO
In addition to financing medical care for Bostons, Rose has personally rescued and placed six Boston terriers in loving homes.
ROSE MCGOWEN OC
You like to kiss?
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HOST VO
Sadly for Rose, one of her first rescue dogs recently passed away.
ROSE MCGOWEN OC/VO
Three days ago Fester died. He had a glial brain tumor and it came up overnight, like, two months ago. I tried radiation and chemo, and I could not save him. When I let him go, he was on his favorite blanket, and she laid down right next to him while he went to sleep. He was a gentleman, and I feel like part of me is gone.
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HOST VO
If you are thinking of adopting a Boston Terrier, there are a few considerations. While active, these dogs overheat very easily.
ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC
You need to be really careful to make sure that you
don’t let them go too hard and too fast in the heat because they will push themselves beyond probably what they can handle.
HOST VO
So where you live is a consideration for this breed.
FEMALE IN PINK SHORTS VO
Get in here, come on.
HOST VO
Boston Terriers live 15 years plus, but due to difficulties caused by the dogs facial structure, they often suffer from respiratory issues. Boston Terriers have short coats and require very little grooming.
ANDREA ARDEN OC
Very, very easy small dog.
HOST VO
Having a high degree of intelligence and determination, the Boston Terrier is easy to train.
MALE IN YELLOW SHIRT VO
Whoa, whoa, whoa.
TYSON KILMER OC
This is a tenacious dog, but this is not a tough dog to train.
HOST VO
The Boston loves people, and is a great dog for children.
ANDREA ARDEN OC
Boston Terriers can be really, really good family companions.
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HOST VO
So in general…
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HOST VO
…Boston Terriers don’t fair well in hot or cold climates. They're prone to respiratory issues. Grooming is a breeze. They're smart and highly trainable, and they're great dogs for families.
TYSON KILMER OC
I have a great amount of respect for this dog. This is a dog that I would definitely make a pet.
HOST VO
When Dogs 101 continues, how did these wrinkles help the Shar-pei in a tussle? Does the Saint Bernard sense an avalanche in advance? And can the long ears help the Basset Hound’s sense of smell?
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HOST VO
The Basset Hound, a dog with such dense bones the dog drops like a stone in water. Its front legs are so far away from the hind legs it has back problems. Dopey, drowsy, drool, the Basset Hound holds the record for the world's longest dog ears.
JONATHAN DAVID OC/VO
Basset Hounds are actually bred down from Blood Hounds, which are known for their big droopy ears.
TYSON KILMER OC
And they're got the biggest, wettest, sexiest noses in the business.
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HOST VO
With its lazy good old boy looks the Basset Hound
has been an American icon since the 1950s.
KAREN HALLIGAN OC/VO
Basset Hounds are lovable because of the big, long ears, kind of short stocky body, and just kind of the way the run.
LIZ SCHILLINGER OC
They are just funny, funny animals, and I think they know they're funny.
JACK SCHILLINGER VO
Hey, who's chewing my shoe?
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Liz and Jack Schillinger are retired professors who are batty about Bassets.
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With Basset beds, Basset pies, and doggy doors galore, these hounds have it made.
LIZ SCHILLINGER VO/OC
We have enough Basset decorations and ornaments around our house. What we really have worked on is making our house Basset friendly.
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JACK SCHILLINGER VO/OC
The oldest is ruby, and she's ten. Uh-oh, missed one. Charlotte has her own personality. You, you walk off the porch and walk away from her, she will just lose it.
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JACK SCHILLINGER VO/OC
Sluggo is a typical Basset. When Sluggo stands up on his feet, he can get way back on the counter. You find the wrappers in the backyard if you're not careful. So this is a combination of ground turkey, peas, and rice.
HOST VO
These dogs can really put on the pounds. To keep their weight down, these hounds even enjoy homemade Basset food.
JACK SCHILLINGER VO
Dogs loves garlic, its in a lot of dog food. But it also fleas away.
HOST VO
Inspired by those lazy eyes, Liz has recently taken up painting this popular hound.
LIZ SCHILLINGER OC/VO
One reason I started painting Bassets was that I couldn't find any pictures of them that didn't portray them as cartoon animals, but they’re also beautiful and I think they are really fine animals.
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HOST VO
But the Basset is a tale of two canines. The Schillinger’s house pets are born hunters.
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MARY CLARK VO/OC
A Basset was born to hunt.
HOST VO
That’s right, the Basset Hound was bred by French aristocrats for tracking rabbits.
MARY CLARK VO
Come on, get it Tony.
HOST VO
In fact, French General Marquis De Lafayette reportedly brought the first Bassets to America as a gift for George Washington. Today, hunting rabbits using Bassets, remains a time-honored tradition here in Washington's home state of Virginia.
MARY CLARK OC/VO
When I first heard about hunting the bassets. I thought here you've got these big, long-eared dogs that really don't look like they do a lot. This is something they were born to do, this is something they love to do.
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Put the supposedly lazy basset after a scent, and this hound will transform into a fine-tuned tracking machine.
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AMY SHOJAI OC/VO
He may look a little bit cartoonish, but all of those characteristics were bred into him for a specific purpose.
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HOST VO
Think those short legs and big paws are a disadvantage to a tracking dog? Guess again.
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AMY SHOJAI VO/OC
That brings his nose closer to the ground; it really helps him in his job of tracking whatever critter it is he’s after.
HOST VO
The slow pace of the Basset allows human hunters to follow the pack on foot. Large, big dog paws help support a surprisingly large body, with bones so dense that the basset hound, average height 14 inches, weighs as much as a 22 inch Lab.
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AMY SHOJAI OC/VO
They’re very well built, deep chest, big paws. All of this is going to work in good stead when they are out there in pretty rough terrain.
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HOST VO
And those big, adorable ears? Well, they help the Basset gather scent. Bassets hold the record for world’s longest dog ear.
JONATHAN DAVID OC/VO
So when they are on the trail and the ears are actually dragging along the scent that they're tracking, the ears pick up the scent and keeps the dog stimulated to keep going after the scent.
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HOST VO
That lovable, loose, droopy skin is another tracking tool that retains scent. It’s also a boon for basset cuddlers.
JONATHAN DAVID VO/OC
A lot of people like to hug and cuddle with them because they're very squishy.
MARY CLARK VO
You're a lover girl aren't you?
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HOST VO
Hunters also bred a white tipped tail into the Basset in order to spot the dog in thick brush. From house dog to hunter, all these traits have one common goal, to support the nose.
MARY CLARK OC
They have the second best nose in the world to a Bloodhound.
HOST VO
The Basset nose is a precision instrument. It contains nearly 20 million scent receptors, as compared to a mere five million for us humans. Like the Bloodhound, the Basset has a long, deep muzzle. This nose can take in many subtle odors at once, zero in on one, and track.
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MARY CLARK VO/OC
They suddenly see a rabbit, and it's like, oh, this is what we're supposed to do, and it is so fun and so amazing to watch when that happens on a young hound.
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MARY CLARK VO
Good boy.
HOST VO
Even-tempered and adorable, the Basset is a dog lover’s hound.
JACK SCHILLINGER VO/OC
There is nothing like just bringing in a new puppy and beginning the process all over again, and of course in our case, we always have a couple of dogs ready to help train the new one.
HOST VO
And remember, the Basset is designed to retain all scent.
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JACK SCHILLINGER VO/OC
Basset Hounds have their own particular odor, it's kind of like corn chips, the smell of an open bag of corn chips, and it's delightful.
HOST VO
The Basset gets mixed reviews for environment, and even though it seems like a docile breed, it needs space.
TYSON KILMER OC
I like to see these guys on, on a bigger piece of property.
HOST VO
Generally this is a hardy breed, with a few health issues, including bloating as well as spinal problems.
KAREN HALLIGAN OC
They get ear infections because of their big, heavy, droopy ears.
HOST VO
With a short coat and relatively low shedding, this hound is easy to groom.
JONATHAN DAVID VO/OC
Because they’re low to the ground they tend to get dirtier, so they do require a lot of bathing.
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HOST VO
Lovable, yes, but this dog is hard to train.
TYSON KILMER OC
Stubborn, stubborn, stubborn, stubborn, stubborn.
LIZ SCHILLINGER OC/VO
If they don't want to, they won't do it. Stay. If they want to, you can't keep them from doing it.
HOST VO
Dopey, loving, and dependable, the Basset is a wonderful family dog, if you can deal with the needs of this hound.
LIZ SCHILLINGER VO/OC
Our grandchildren love the dogs, so that's really fun.
HOST VO
So the Basset needs room to roam. This is a hardy breed, but you must clean their ears often. These dogs can be stubborn when it comes to training, and Basset Hounds are great with kids.
LIZ SCHILLINGER OC/VO
For us a Hound, a Basset, you can't do better than that.
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HOST VO
More ahead on Dogs 101. If you're buried in snow this is the one guy you want to hear coming. And why is the Shar-pei's tongue black?
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Now it's time to play Pick the Pooch. Did you know that dogs wag their tails mostly to the right? But this breed expresses joy by blushing, turning its ears, nose, and face, a rosy shade of pink. Can you guess what dog this is? The answer when we come back.
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HOST VO
What is the only breed that blushes when it’s happy? That’s right, the Pharaoh Hound dog, the national dog of Malta.
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JONATHAN DAVID OC
The Shar-pei is probably one of the most unusuallooking breeds of all the breeds.
ANDREA ARDEN OC/VO
The reason they bred them to have all those wrinkles was because when they got into dog fights their internal organs were protected by the wrinkles.
TYSON KILMER OC
Definitely a great protection dog.
ANDREA ARDEN OC/VO
It's the one place where wrinkles are cute, is on a Shar-pei.
JONATHAN DAVID VO/OC
They're just this ball of wrinkled skin.
ANDREA ARDEN OC
The wrinkles fade. Don’t we all wish that wrinkles faded, as Shar-peis get older.
HOST VO
One Shar-pei, two Shar-pei. That's right, the plural for Shar-pei is Shar-pei. Don’t worry, everybody gets it wrong. These adorable wrinkly puppies were not always as cuddly and approachable as they seem today.
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HOST VO
2000 years ago they were downright macho. The Chinese Shar-pei was a dog bred by Chinese royalty, to guard the high palace and protect the royal family. But the Communist Revolution turned everything upside down for the Shar-pei. The government put a tax on every Chinese dog. The Shar-pei was about to go extinct.
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HOST VO
Then to the rescue, of all things, an American magazine. That’s right, Life magazine published a front page photo of a Shar-pei in the late seventies, and overnight the American public became smitten with these puppies, which sold for 3,000 dollars a pup.
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HOST VO
Soon those adorable puppies started popping up in ads and they became sort of the status dog.
ANDREA ARDEN OC/VO
My father for some reason got it locked in his mind that he needed us to have a Shar-pei, so low and behold we did go somewhere and we saw a litter, and of course they're incredibly cute puppies.
HOST VO
What people loved was the wrinkly skin and, what appeared to be, fluffy fur.
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HOST VO
The name Shar-pei literally means 'sand-skin' referring to the two distinctive qualities of its coat, rough and short. The sand skin is offensive to attackers. You see, it’s all about the fighting.
ANDREA ARDEN VO/OC
Another dog would grab the, the skin but wouldn't be able to get at something that was more important.
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HOST VO
Another distinctive feature of the Shar-pei is the blue-black tongue. This uniquely colored tongue was thought to ward off evil spirits when exposed while barking. According to legend, it made the dog look fierce.
JONATHAN DAVID VO/OC
They're very territorial of their environment, so they do make a great guard dog.
BARBARA OC/VO
I live alone, and I want a dog that when someone comes to my door they're going to think twice about walking into my house.
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HOST VO
This ancient fighting dog was bred for its aggressive traits. Today the Shar-pei is being raised as a companion dog.
FEMALE IN BLACK T-SHIRT VO/OC
They’re just adorable, and they're so nice. Like I always thought they were mean, or they were hard to take care of, or like this complicated dog, and then getting to know them they're, seems like they’re easier than most breeds.
HOST VO
But although these charming looking dogs can be
trained to be wonderful companions, they are naturally aggressive. Many new owners have no idea how to properly socialize the Shar-pei. This, combined with massive over-breeding, has left many dogs homeless.
LAURA SAY OC
It was one of the rarest dogs.
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LAURA SAY OC/VO
Because of that, it was exploited to the point now we have an overabundance of Shar-pei.
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LAURA SAY VO/OC
So for me, it’s about saving the ones that are in shelters and making sure that we are not going to overpopulate with Shar-pei. Get in the car baby.
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Through her rescue efforts, animal activist and Sharpei champion Laura Say has given thousands of Shar-pei a new lease on life. And in return, these loyal, loving, wrinkly friends give back to Laura's patients, at Sure Rehab, the physical rehabilitation center she founded.
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A number of years ago Laura treated one of her rescued Shar-pei, Benjamin, who was suffering from a spinal deformity, at her rehab center. At that same time, Laura was diagnosed with Hodgkin's lymphoma. She found Benjamin's companionship vital to her recovery.
LAURA SAY OC/VO
It, it was nice to have a dog that wasn’t going to judge the fact that I had, you know, radiation burns and my hair was falling out. We were just both hanging out trying to get better together.
HOST VO
Inspired by her experience with Benjamin, from that time forward all the patients at Sure Rehab were able to enjoy the comfort and companionship these loyal Shar-pei provide.
LAURA SAY VO/OC
Benjamin, because of his spinal deformity, would often be lying on a hot pack in my office. That made people have some empathy for him, as well as they were getting a hot pack at the same time, so I guess they were able to share that experience.
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Now, when you visit Sure Rehab, the spirit of Benjamin lives on. Shar-pei, lots of them, running around all wrinkly and cuddly.
BARBARA VO
When I pulled up and I saw the flag out front that said Shar-peis I said, oh my goodness, I'm in my element.
FEMALE IN BLACK T-SHIRT VO/OC
And who wouldn’t want to hang out with dogs while you’re getting worked on?
LAURA SAY VO/OC
They will greet people and give them kisses. Hi babe. They say hello and then their needs are met then they go back to finish their day.
FEMALE IN BLACK T-SHIRT VO/OC
She’s just so much fun to pet and it's nice to see her because she obviously just came from a scary place, so it’s kind of therapy for both, you know, animal
and, and human.
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With moderate exercise the Shar-pei can be a good country, town, or city dog. Unfortunately, overbreeding has created some health concerns for the breed, including eye diseases, allergies, and skin irritations. The wrinkly folds in the Shar-pei’s skin sometimes trap bacteria and need extra cleaning, but with proper diet and regular cleaning these dogs won’t require excessive grooming.
JONATHAN DAVID VO/OC
They are kind of a moderate grooming dog. They need regular bathing and they need attention paid to their skin, but regular ear cleaning and nil trimming is sufficient.
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It’s never too early to start socializing the breed to be around young children and strangers. An experienced trainer is recommended.
ANDREA ARDEN OC
They are cute as puppies, but for training they’re a little hard to motivate.
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Shar-pei are a loyal and devoted breed, but as a rule do not do well with small children.
TYSON KILMER OC
This would be a dog that I would definitely have as a one-man or a one-woman puppy.
HOST VO
Overall, walk the dog every day and the Shar-pei can live anywhere. Shar-pei can have some health problems. These dogs are a snap to groom. Use an
experienced trainer. Shar-pei do best with adults, and make loyal pets. If you're devoted to your Sharpei, your Shar-pei will be devoted to you.
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When Dogs 101 comes back, what's in those wooden kegs worn by Saint Bernards?
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The Saint Bernard, a brave majestic dog, is known around the world for its heroism. So what's up with all that drooling?
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And what about that kitschy whisky barrel? Was that real or fiction?
ANDREA ARDEN OC/VO
If you want a dog that's going to get you attention, get yourself a Saint Bernard. I don't think you can walk down any street anywhere without getting, you know, stopped every five feet.
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TYSON KILMER VO/OC
When you first look at these guys they're, they're absolutely huge and demonstrative looking animals, but the soul and the spirit of the animals that, that I've worked with have always been really gentle.
That's the kind of animal that I'd like to see running
around my house and playing with my children.
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Saint Bernards were the original high adventure avalanche rescue dog.
JONATHAN DAVID OC/VO
They have a great desire and instinct to actually seek out, search and find people.
HOST VO
Natural-born trailblazers with a superior sense of smell, it’s said that they can detect a person buried under 20 feet of snow. Their strong, arched feet and large paws make them surefooted and great at digging.
ANDREA ARDEN OC/VO
Bring a drool rag with you. You need to have one on your hip at all times.
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Because of the shape of the jaw and jowls, there’s loose skin around the facial area
JONATHAN DAVID VO
So if you are going to have a Saint Bernard expect to get wet.
FEMALE IN WHITE PANTS VO
She's a good girl.
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Believed to be descended from the Mastiff family…
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…Saint Bernards can weigh between 100 and 200 pounds.
TYSON KILMER VO
It’s naturally a gentle giant.
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This heroic breed first found their calling high in the Swiss Alps, at a legendary hospice established as a save haven for travelers crossing the treacherous mountain pass in winter.
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FRANÇOIS D'ORSAZ OC/VO
It was the shortest way between north and south, and the direct way to Rome.
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Founded in the 11th century by a monk named Bernard De Menthon, it wasn’t until the 1700s that dogs were first used at the hospice. The monks soon discovered these dogs had some gifts that went above and beyond. Not only could they sense avalanches approaching, but they also had an uncanny ability to find victims lost in the snow.
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KEVIN YOUNG VO/OC
And that's probably why the breed developed to the extent it has today, because of the affinity between the monks, and the dogs, and both their desires to assist people.
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Over a span of 200 years, Saint Bernards have saved the lives of over 2,000 people, and although it’s nice to imagine, and plenty of us have, Saint Bernards never did carry those cute barrels of brandy. Instead,
they wore packs with food and water. After some pretty tough winters, the monks attempted to improve the warmth of the Saint Bernard coat…
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…by breeding them with the longer-haired Newfoundland.
But the new, fluffier Saint Bernards did not fare any better, due to ice and snow clumping and weighing them down.
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Today the hospice still breeds this prestigious line, called the Grand Saint Bernard. Although they haven’t saved many lives since the advent of the helicopter, because lighter breeds like German Shepherds are now used, they're still trained for rescue competitions. Justin, a one-and-a-half year old born at the hospice, is one such dog. With the help of veteran rescue dog trainer Roland Eggen, Justin will keep his breed's historic tradition alive.
ROLAND EGGEN VO
HOST VO
They train during the summer months on a glacier that sits at 10,000 feet above sea level, and can be counted on for plenty of snow. Today Roland and his team are teaching Justin to trust his senses, during an avalanche simulation, where he must find a live victim buried in the snow.
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Next on Dogs 101, Justin is put to the test, but does he have the skills to save a life in this avalanche rescue challenge?
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Justin an 18-month-old Saint Bernard, is midway through his training as a rescue competition dog. Today's test, to unearth a would-be avalanche victim trapped in a snow cave. But will this Saint Bernard succeed?
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Once he perceives the location of the trapped human he begins digging with his powerful paws, to save the life inside. To reinforce his success, Justin is lavished with praise, and sausages. Justin’s made great progress, but he still has two years of training before strutting his stuff in avalanche rescue competitions, continuing the brave legacy of the original hospice dogs.
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While their Swiss cousins may seem miles apart from our American Saint Bernards, they're still the same bright breed with plenty of charm and cheer. Because they grow so fast, 100 different Saint
Bernard puppies were used to make the movie Beethoven's 2nd. Whether short or long haired, Saint Bernards require a moderate amount of grooming, and shed heavily two times a year
JONATHAN DAVID OC/VO
They have a very oily, water resistant coat, so you don’t want to bathe them too often because you will strip the coat of all their natural oils.
HOST VO
For environment, Saint Bernards fare better in a colder place. They are very large dogs, so make sure you have the space and the money to feed them. As far as health is concerned, the Saint
Bernard has more issues than most, and can suffer from painful growth spurts and joint and heart problems.
JONATHAN DAVID VO/OC
When it comes to Saint Bernard’s health, you're probably going to spend a lot of money at the vet.
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Training at an early age is the way to go. Saint Bernards can run out of juice quickly but they are very eager to please. And finally, nicknamed 'the babysitter', Saint Bernards are a spectacular family dog…
TYSON KILMER VO/OC
I think that they're safe with children. I think that they are willing to listen. With the right training and the right healthy play habits, this is a great dog to have for your family.
MALE IN BLUE JEANS VO
Oh, good girl.
HOST VO
So, in general, Saint Bernards love lots of space and prefer the cold. This breed can run up your vet bills. They do need some grooming. They’re trainable, but can tire quickly, and they can fit in with any family, especially one with kids.
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This gentle giant has a truly compassionate spirit, earning his place forever in our hearts.
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Just to recap, the Rottweiler is the tale of two dogs. On the one hand, a fierce defender of family and turf, with one of the strongest bites in dodgem . On the other hand…
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…a Rotty can be a loveable sweetheart.
FEMALE VOICE #2 OC
Are you hungry?
HOST VO
Choose yours with care.
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People go crazy for their Boston Terriers, even though they're the gassiest dog around.
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They're known for their expressive faces, grunting, and snoring.
Basset Hounds are a dog designed around a nose. They were bread with short legs, so hunters could follow them on foot. The longest ears in the dog world help them gather scent around that powerful
nose. Shar-pei is the Chinese breed that almost went extinct. Those wrinkles were designed to save them in a fight, and the wrinkles are what helped save them from oblivion. When American families saw those cute puppies they couldn’t resist the Shar-pei. The Saint Bernard is the most noble breed, breed to save travelers in the alps.
HOST VO
Today they're a star in Hollywood and in American homes. Remember, every dog is an individual and can vary from the general characteristics for temperament, health and adaptability. If you're adopting a dog, do your homework, and choose your next dog wisely.
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