Jack Russell Terrier magnet from Dogstuff

The open-access journal BMC Biology has its preliminary report available. They conclude that the small-dog mutation arose after the domestication of dogs, but not long after. Genetic similarities between all small dog breeds and Middle Eastern gray wolves suggest that smaller breeds originated there, apparently from domesticating the smaller wolves.

Deacon, a German Shepherd, was found running in traffic, 600 miles from home. An implanted microchip gave authorities his owners’ identities.

"Underground" tracking on display

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The 2010 International Cluster of Dog Shows, going on this weekend in Chicago, will include a focus on terriers, their history, breeding, and underground tracking skills.

The Chicago Sun-Times has more.

Ricochet was born into a program that trained service dogs. She was great at learning to turn on lights, open doors, pull down zippers, and so on.

But there was a problem … one that ultimately led through sadness, to a new, joyful direction for Richochet’s life.

George at home

After some dispute over the proper title-holder, the Guinness folk’s official measurements have given George the crown.

And they’re looking for record-setting pets in other categories as well, so yours could still be a contender.

From virtual community Pleix comes this slow-motion video of airborne canines. Enjoy!

The Los Angeles Times explains (agreeing that, yes, the dogs have more dignity).

Notecards from Dogstuff

CNN has the story of the many dogs who served in Vietnam, and the handlers who recall them with a mixture of gratitude and grief.