Click to Skip Ahead Classification Details Top 8 Big Dog Breeds That Don’t Drool For some‚ their love of certain types of dogs is strong enough that the drooling isn’t a big deal. For others‚ it’s just not something they’re prepared to deal with at all due to personal preference or allergies. If you are in the latter category but love big dogs‚ you might consider adopting a dog that doesn’t slobber much. In this post‚ we’ll introduce you to some of the possibilities. How Are Non-Drooling Dogs Classified? Some breeds are notorious for drooling because of the type of mouth they have. Some dogs have jowls‚ and the slobber tends to collect them. Examples include Bloodhounds‚ Bulldogs‚ Saint Bernards‚ Dogue de Bordeaux‚ and Great Danes. This kind of facial structure is especially common in large breeds. On the other hand‚ some breeds are known for being minimal droolers. That said‚ just because a dog doesn’t drool much doesn’t mean they won’t ever drool at all—it happens to pretty much every dog now and again. It can happen during eating or drinking or when a dog is stressed‚ excited‚ or has just exercised. Top 8 Big Dog Breeds That Don’t Drool 1. Afghan Hound Image Credit: David Raihelgauz‚ Shutterstock Origin: Afghanistan Lifespan: 12–18 years Height: 25–27 inches Shedding: Minimal Temperament: Dignified‚ comical‚ sweet‚ independent As one of the world’s oldest breeds‚ the Afghan Hound has been around so long that it’s impossible to know exactly when they first came about. We do know‚ however‚ that they were developed in the area that is today made up of three countries: Afghanistan‚ Pakistan‚ and India‚ but Afghan Hounds are most commonly associated with Afghanistan. Here‚ they’ve long been developed in mountainous regions. Afghan Hounds aren’t known for being big droolers‚ and they don’t shed much‚ either‚ but they do need to be brushed regularly to prevent their long coats from getting matted and tangled. The elegant and dignified Afghan Hound exterior hides a sweet nature and a real sense of fun. 2. Doberman Pinscher Image Credit: DragoNika‚ Shutterstock Origin: Germany Lifespan: 10–12 years Height: 24–28 inches Shedding: Moderate Temperament: Loyal‚ alert‚ affectionate‚ courageous Doberman Pinschers originated in Germany in the 19th century where they were developed as protection dogs. The idea came from a breeder named Louis Dobermann who was also a taxman and needed a dog of impressive size and awe-inspiring appearance to make sure people paid up and didn’t give him any trouble on his rounds. In spite of their imposing looks‚ Dobermans are known for being very affectionate‚ devoted dogs that get along well with everyone in the family when properly socialized. They’re moderate shedders but don’t need to be brushed often and don’t tend to get smelly easily. Dobermans also have a low tendency to drool. 3. German Shorthaired Pointer Image Credit: Westwood‚ Shutterstock Origin: Germany Lifespan: 12–14 years Height: Up to 25 inches Shedding: Moderate Temperament: Friendly‚ eager to please‚ energetic‚ playful German Shorthaired Pointers were originally bred as gun dogs‚ and‚ after generations of work‚ the breed was finally considered “finished” in the 19th century. As hunting dogs‚ GSPs were developed to be agile‚ energetic‚ and eager to please—traits today’s GSPs have inherited from their ancestors. As such‚ if you’re looking for a dog with moderate exercise needs‚ a GSP isn’t the breed for you; these athletic‚ smart dogs need a lot of physical exercise and mental stimulation on a daily basis. They give an awful lot back‚ though—GSPs are often said to be very affectionate‚ happy-go-lucky dogs‚ and they’re not big droolers. However‚ you can expect them to shed moderately. 4. Briard Image Credit: kyliskova.cz‚ Shutterstock Origin: France Lifespan: 12 years Height: 22–27 inches Shedding: Minimal Temperament: Courageous‚ loyal‚ alert‚ adventurous A French pasture dog‚ the shaggy Briard was bred as a dependable herder and guardian. The breed’s name was inspired by Brie‚ a region famous for dairy—especially cheese. Though they may appear heavily set‚ Briards are remarkably agile and have stamina to spare‚ so they need to be with a family who will keep them busy. With a committed family‚ the Briard is faithful and loving‚ but with an independent streak. Since their long‚ wavy coats are prone to matting and tangling‚ Briards need frequent and thorough brushing‚ but they don’t shed much and they’re not typically slobbery. 5. Poodle (Standard) Image Credit: No-longer-here‚ Pixabay Origin: Germany Lifespan: 10–18 years Height: Over 15 inches Shedding: Minimal Temperament: Intelligent‚ energetic‚ versatile‚ family-oriented Though the Poodle is France’s national dog‚ Germany is the country of origin. Poodles were developed in Germany as water-retrieving dogs‚ which accounts for their water-resistant curly coats and webbed feet. They come in toy‚ miniature‚ and standard varieties‚ but the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) recognizes a fourth size: medium (moyen). Standard-sized Poodles are over 15 inches according to the American Kennel Club (AKC)‚ and they can grow up to around 24 inches. Poodles are considered to be hypoallergenic because they shed so little and are less likely to drool than some other medium-large dogs. Poodles are highly intelligent and are good-humored‚ spirited‚ and devoted when socialized. 6. Goldendoodle (Standard) Image Credit: Matthew Yoder‚ Shutterstock Origin: Australia &; United States Lifespan: 10–15 years Height: 20–24 inches Shedding: Minimal (usually) Temperament: Fun-loving‚ gentle‚ curious‚ goofy We shouldn’t forget that there are also plenty of mixed breeds that are medium or large in size and don’t drool or shed much. The Goldendoodle—a cross between a Golden Retriever and a Poodle—is a fine example of this. Neither the Golden Retriever nor the Poodle are heavy droolers‚ but the Golden Retriever does shed year-round and more heavily during shedding seasons. Goldendoodle breeders tend to aim for a Poodle-like coat‚ which sheds very little‚ but some Goldendoodles are straight-haired‚ so this can vary. Goldendoodles were originally developed as service dogs‚ but they quickly became popular family companions thanks to their often gentle‚ patient‚ and fun-loving personalities. 7. Borzoi Image Credit: Bob63‚ Pixabay Origin: Russia Lifespan: 9–14 years Height: At least 26 inches Shedding: Moderate to heavy Temperament: Majestic‚ calm‚ elegant‚ independent The magnificent Borzoi comes from Russia where these dogs were commonly put to work as wolf hunters during the Romanov period. They were highly valued by the Russian royals‚ even to the extent that they were occasionally offered as special gifts by the Tzar. Queen Victoria of England may have been the recipient of Borzoi‚ which could explain how they came to Britain. Appearance-wise and in manner‚ this gigantic hound truly lives up to its regal reputation. After all‚ you can’t expect such a royal dog to be a big drooler‚ can you? That said‚ they do shed a moderate to heavy amount. The Borzoi tends to be quiet and dignified with plenty of independence but a lot of love to give. 8. Irish Wolfhound Image Credit: Jana Oudova‚ Shutterstock Origin: Ireland Lifespan: 6–10 years Height: 28–35 inches Shedding: Moderate Temperament: Graceful‚ calm‚ sensitive‚ loving The Irish Wolfhound is another ancient breed that was around before the Roman conquest of Britain. Like the Borzoi‚ Irish Wolfhounds once specialized in wolf hunting in addition to hunting large game. Today‚ however‚ the breed is one of the gentle giants of the dog world with a graceful‚ calm disposition‚ but their hunting instincts and prey drive are still present. If you’ve ever been lucky enough to meet an Irish Wolfhound‚ you’re sure to have been awe-struck. Appearing to be more around the same size as a small pony than a dog‚ a male Irish Wolfhound is a minimum of 32 inches tall‚ though females are slightly shorter. They do not drool much‚ and they shed moderately year-round. Conclusion And there we have it—eight very lovely and large breeds (and mixed breeds) that aren’t heavy droolers. If you’d like a big‚ non-drooly dog to join your family‚ we recommend looking into adoption from a shelter. Shelters are full of dogs big in both body and heart—pure breeds and mixed breeds—waiting for the perfect home. Sources https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/health/why-do-dogs-drool/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/afghan-hound/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/doberman-pinscher/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/german-shorthaired-pointer/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/briard/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/poodle-standard/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/golden-retriever/ https://www.petmd.com/dog/breeds/goldendoodle https://nationalpurebreddogday.com/borzois-royal-connection/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/borzoi/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/irish-wolfhound/ Featured Image Credit: kyliskova.cz‚ Shutterstock The post 8 Big Dog Breeds That Don’t Drool: History‚ Pictures‚ &; Info appeared first on Pet Keen.

Click to Skip Ahead Classification Details? The 12 Wrinkly Dog Breeds Wrinkles might mean we spend more time making sure our dog’s skin is free from dirt and other skin irritants‚ but those skin folds are also wonderfully adorable. There are all sorts of wrinkly breeds‚ from scent hounds to ancient war dogs and friendly companion breeds. They all have unique histories and personalities. Here are 12 wrinkly dog breeds that are adored the world over. How Are Wrinkly Breeds Classified? Determining whether a dog is a wrinkly breed or not is quite simple. As long as they have deep skin folds somewhere‚ wrinkly dog breeds can be wrinkly all over like the Shar Pei‚ only have wrinkles on their face and legs like the Basset Hound‚ or just have a wrinkly face like the Bullmastiff. Many breeds have wrinkles for reasons other than how cute it makes them look. For scent-hounds like the Bloodhound‚ deep face wrinkles play a huge part in helping their noses work better. Bulldogs owe their wrinkles to their pit-fighting ancestors‚ where the loose skin served to protect their internal organs from damage. Sometimes‚ though‚ the deep wrinkles are indeed because they make the breed even more adorable. The 12 Wrinkly Dog Breeds 1. Shar Pei Image Credit: Cavan-Images‚ Shutterstock Origin: Han Dynasty‚ China Lifespan: 8–12 years Height: 18–20 inches The wrinkliest breed of them all is the Shar Pei. Developed in China as far back as the Han Dynasty over 2‚000 years ago‚ their appearance is a result of the unique culture that China developed while it was closed to foreign influences.1 As a breed that was developed by farmers‚ the Shar Pei is intelligent and versatile. They excel as hunters‚ guardians‚ herders‚ and companions. During the 1900s‚ the breed almost went extinct due to the Communist regime‚ but they were saved by U.S. breeders in the 1960s and 1970s. While they’re calm and even tempered‚ their protective nature makes them wary around strangers. Toward their family members‚ though‚ they’re loyal companions. 2. Neapolitan Mastiff Image Credit: Christian Mueller‚Shutterstock Origin: 700 B.C.‚ Italy Lifespan: 7–9 years Height: 24–31 inches With deep wrinkles all over their body‚ the Neapolitan Mastiff is an excellent guard dog through their appearance alone. They’re huge dogs‚ and despite their placid nature toward their loved ones‚ their wrinkles give them a dour expression that convinces everyone else to stand clear. They’re descended from the ancient war dogs of the Roman Empire‚ and Mastiff-like dogs were recorded as early as 700 B.C. The Neapolitan Mastiff and other dogs like them were used as gladiators‚ war dogs‚ and guardians before they were introduced to farm work‚ cart pulling‚ and hunting. 3. Basset Hound Image Credit: Bill Anastasiou‚ Shutterstock Origin: 16th century‚ France Lifespan: 12–13 years Height: Up to 15 inches Thought to be descended from the St. Hubert Hound‚ the Basset Hound is a friendly and wrinkly goofball. They were first introduced during the 16th century in France as a slow‚ small hound breed. While they were initially favored by aristocrats‚ their plodding gait made them a good hunting partner for lower classes that couldn’t afford horses. Unlike some other wrinkly dog breeds‚ the Basset Hound’s wrinkles serve a second purpose beyond making them look adorable. Along with their long drooping ears and short legs‚ their deep wrinkles help collect scents and give the Basset Hound more time to analyze them during a hunt. After the Bloodhound‚ they’re one of the best scent-hounds in the dog world. They’re not the most affectionate of breeds‚ but they are incredibly friendly and have a fondness for adults‚ children‚ and other dogs. The Basset Hound also loves to make people laugh with their antics. 4. Bloodhound Image Credit: Glikiri‚ Shutterstock Origin: 12th century‚ Europe Lifespan: 10–12 years Height: 23–27 inches The oldest and most efficient scent hound is a wrinkly dog breed. Known for their powerful nose‚ the Bloodhound was first developed in the 12th century and is both a loyal companion and a dedicated hunter. Their roots can be traced back to the monks in charge of breeding hounds for the bishops‚ and they were known as “blooded hounds” due to their “aristocratic blood.” They were bred to work in a pack alongside humans‚ other dogs‚ and horses‚ so they adore having company even if they’re not the most affectionate of breeds. Along with their powerful noses‚ they’re stubborn and determined‚ with a single-minded focus on following scents‚ which often gets them into trouble. When it comes to their scenting abilities‚ their wrinkles play a huge part in the breed’s skills. While their ears stir up scents‚ their facial wrinkles capture and hold smells so the Bloodhound can analyze them longer. 5. Bulldog Image Credit: ChickenStock Images‚ Shutterstock Origin: 13th century‚ England Lifespan: 8–10 years Height: 14–15 inches One of the most well-loved and easily recognized wrinkly-faced breeds is the Bulldog. As the national symbol of England‚ they’re a breed that’s been around since the 13th century. The first ancestors of the breed were a far cry from what they are today‚ though. Bigger‚ stronger‚ and more brutish‚ the original Bulldog was a fighter bred for bullbaiting in the U.K. before the sport was banned in the 19th century. With the illegal sport going underground‚ the breed was transformed into a smaller and quicker dog‚ which led to several other Bulldog-type breeds‚ including the Bulldog that we know today. As they lost their original purpose‚ the Bulldog was saved from extinction by breed fanatics who began to develop a friendlier‚ companionable breed. Today‚ the Bulldog shares the deep wrinkles of their ancestors but has a friendlier and more loyal and docile disposition. 6. Bullmastiff Image Credit: BORINA OLGA‚ Shutterstock Origin: Mid-19th century‚ U.K. Lifespan: 7–9 years Height: 24–27 inches In the U.K. during the 19th century‚ the country estates belonging to aristocrats covered massive areas of land. While poaching was illegal‚ estates were a frequent target for many opportunistic thieves. This led to the development of “The Gamekeeper’s Night Dog‚” or the Bullmastiff. These big‚ wrinkled dogs were a mix of the English Bulldog and the Mastiff. They were heavy‚ quick-footed‚ intimidating‚ and fearless. With their growing popularity as guard dogs‚ the Bullmastiff was further perfected due to the growing rivalry between the gamekeepers. Eventually‚ this led to these dogs entering the show ring. Along with their tall‚ muscled bodies‚ the Bullmastiff owes much of their intimidating appearance to their wrinkled face. At heart‚ though‚ these dogs are loyal and incredibly affectionate. 7. Chow Chow Image Credit: Flower_Garden‚ Shutterstock Origin: Han Dynasty‚ China Lifespan: 8–12 years Height: 17–20 inches Their fur might hide most of their wrinkles‚ but the Chow Chow certainly deserves a place on this list. As one of the oldest ancient breeds‚ the Chow Chow can be traced back to before China’s Han Dynasty in 206 B.C. Believed to be the breed that helped develop spitz-type dogs‚ the Chow Chow has been companions to emperors and worked as hunters‚ guardians‚ and haulers. Chow Chows were also once known as the “Edible Dog” in the distant past‚ when their ancestors were used as a protein-rich food source. While they’ve since left their edible days behind‚ they were only introduced to the rest of the world in the early 19th century. They were part of an exhibit in the London Zoo but didn’t become popular until Queen Victoria took an interest in the breed. 8. Dogue De Bordeaux Image Credit: Jan Dix‚ Shutterstock Origin: 12th century‚ France Lifespan: 5–8 years Height: 23–27 inches The oldest French dog breed is also a wrinkly one. Similar in appearance to the Bullmastiff‚ the Dogue De Bordeaux is tall and muscular and has a deeply wrinkled face and neck. They’re an ancient breed‚ so it’s challenging to determine when exactly these dogs were introduced‚ but they’re believed to be descended from Roman Mastiff-type dogs. While their Roman ancestors were used as gladiators and war dogs‚ the Dogue De Bordeaux was used on farms and as hunters‚ haulers‚ and guardians. Their use as guardians extended to French estates until the Revolution‚ when many members of the aristocracy were imprisoned or executed. They became popular again following the 1989 movie‚ “Turner &; Hooch‚” and they are dedicated‚ loyal companions to all sorts of families. 9. French Bulldog Image Credit: yhelfman‚ Shutterstock Origin: 19th century‚ France Lifespan: 10–12 years Height: 11–13 inches One of the most popular wrinkly-faced‚ squashed-nose breeds is the French Bulldog. They’re adored for their massive ears‚ small stature‚ and goofy personality. They are also one of the wrinkly breeds that were solely bred to be a companion for all sorts of families. Their origin story can be traced back to lace workers in England who favored toy Bulldog breeds in the mid-19th century. With the Industrial Revolution convincing many of the traditional lace workers to leave‚ the families and their toy dogs emigrated to the French countryside. It was here that the French Bulldog was developed properly‚ with the original toy Bulldogs being bred with terriers‚ Pugs‚ and other breeds to create the Bouledogue Français. By the turn of the century‚ the French Bulldog was a popular city dog for aristocrats and common folk alike. 10. Mastiff Image Credit: Urszula Drab‚ Shutterstock Origin: Before 55 B.C.‚ England Lifespan: 6–10 years Height: 27.5–30+ inches Mastiffs were originally developed in England and were used as home guardians‚ big-game hunters‚ and war dogs for thousands of years. Their early ancestors drew the eye of Julius Caesar during a Roman invasion in 55 B.C. The Mastiff’s size‚ temperament‚ and skillset helped assure them a place in Rome and the Colosseum. It wasn’t until later that the Mastiff was recognized by famous English artists and writers‚ including Chaucer and Shakespeare. Despite their popularity‚ though‚ the Mastiff almost went extinct at the end of WWII‚ and their population was restored with the help of U.S. breeders. They might be far more docile than their ancestors‚ but they share the same size and wrinkly face that give them their unique intimidation factor. 11. Pekingese Image Credit: AJ Laing‚ Shutterstock Origin: Ancient China Lifespan: 12–14 years Height: 6–9 inches The Pekingese is one of several wrinkly dog breeds that originated in China‚ though it’s difficult to say when exactly they first appeared. They were among the many flat-faced and wrinkly toy breeds that the Chinese Imperial Court and other nobles favored as companions. Although they’re a common breed all over the world today‚ the Pekingese were originally a well-kept secret in China. They weren’t introduced to the world until 1860‚ when several Pekingese dogs were given to Queen Victoria. After that‚ the breed became adored across the world for their regal bearing‚ wrinkled faces‚ and devotion to their owners. 12. Pug Image Credit: Dim Hou‚ Unsplash Origin: Ancient China Lifespan: 13–15 years Height: 10–13 inches Wrinkly toy breeds like the Pug have always been excellent companions. It might not be obvious from their small size‚ squashed nose‚ and friendly disposition‚ but the Pug is one of the oldest breeds around today‚ and their roots trace back to ancient China. Like the Pekingese and other Chinese breeds‚ the Pug was first introduced as a companion for the imperial family. While they were developed in China‚ most of the Pug’s history that we’re certain about started in the 1500s‚ with Dutch traders introducing the breed to Europe. The Pug first became a beloved companion of the House of Orange in Holland and went on to become popular in the U.K. when William and Mary of Orange began their reign. Their wrinkly face‚ squashed nose‚ goofy disposition‚ and loyalty still endear the Pug to people the world over. Conclusion Wrinkles are a big part of what makes many breeds what they are today. They’re an adorable addition to a flat-faced breed favored by Chinese nobility or serve a purpose like protecting dogs in fights or helping with scent work. While our own wrinkles are something that many of us grimace at‚ we can’t deny that the wrinkles on our favorite breeds are part of what makes them so adorable. We hope that this list of 12 wrinkly dog breeds has introduced you to a few new dogs to adore! Sources https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/10-facts-about-basset-hounds/ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/lifestyle/9-things-you-didnt-know-about-the-bulldog/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chinese-shar-pei/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pekingese/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/pug/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/mastiff/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/french-bulldog/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/dogue-de-bordeaux/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/chow-chow/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bloodhound/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/bulldog/ https://www.akc.org/expert-advice/dog-breeds/basset-hound-history/ https://www.akc.org/dog-breeds/neapolitan-mastiff/   Featured Image Credit: Michelle Cavanagh‚ Shutterstock The post 12 Wrinkly Dog Breeds: Pictures‚ Facts &; History appeared first on Pet Keen.

When speaking to the Beijing Academy of Artificial Intelligence in June‚ OpenAI CEO Sam Altman urged Chinese and Western officials and tech leaders to collaborate in “mitigating” the dangers that unregulated AI development could pose to humanity. “China has some of the best AI talent in the world. ... Given the difficulties in solving alignment for advanced AI systems‚ this requires the best minds from around the world‚” Altman said. On one hand‚ given the rising geopolitical and economic tensions between the U.S. and China‚ Altman’s desire to collaborate with his country’s most significant foreign adversary is surprising. On the other‚ considering his well-documented anxieties over potential existential threats AI presents to humanity‚ it isn’t. It appears that Altman is simply trying to appeal to collective concerns about humanity‚ but therein lies the issue: He relies on a Western understanding of human nature to ingratiate his cause with explicit adversaries of Western thought. Ruling-class conventional wisdom tells us that the keys to understanding human civilization and avoiding conflict can be found in parsing complicated macroeconomic models and various theories of diplomatic relations. Frankly‚ this is bunk. Despite unprecedented economic and diplomatic interdependence‚ neither economics nor ideology provides us with the necessary tools to understand our adversaries in the 21st century. The first principles civilizations remain committed to are the cultural precepts informing their understanding of human existence that differentiate them from other civilizations. Historically‚ civilizations with dissimilar cultures are destined for conflict of some kind. In his 1993 essay “The Clash of Civilizations?” political scientist Samuel Huntington wrote‚ “[The] differences among civilizations are not only real; they are basic. Civilizations are differentiated from each other by history‚ language‚ culture‚ tradition and‚ most important‚ religion. The people of different civilizations have different views on the relations between God and man‚ the individual and the group‚ the citizen and the state‚ parents and children‚ husband and wife‚ as well as differing views of the relative importance of rights and responsibilities‚ liberty and authority‚ equality and hierarchy. These differences are the product of centuries. They will not soon disappear. They are far more fundamental than differences among political ideologies and political regimes.” In brief‚ civilizational differences in culture are fundamental aspects of human existence that inform our perspectives‚ whereas ideology and economic factors are subject to rapid change. Upon returning to England after failing to initiate trade relations with China in 1793‚ George Macartney delivered a letter to King George III from Emperor Qianlong in which Qianlong expressed that Chinese and British cultures were simply incompatible — the foundational principles of each would make meaningful exchange impossible. The emperor wrote: “If you assert that your reverence for Our Celestial dynasty fills you with a desire to acquire our civilisation‚ our ceremonies and code of laws differ so completely from your own that‚ even if your Envoy were able to acquire the rudiments of our civilisation‚ you could not possibly transplant our manners and customs to your alien soil. Therefore‚ however adept the Envoy might become‚ nothing would be gained thereby.” The British and Chinese cultural distinctions‚ the underlying ethos of Western and Confucian civilizations‚ led the emperor to reject a potentially mutually beneficial relationship. He was convinced they could not meaningfully collaborate because they simply valued different things and perceived themselves to be too different. In the 21st century‚ as large-scale conflicts predicated primarily upon things like ideology have faded and‚ in the case of fiefdom‚ generally ceased to exist‚ cultural conflicts remain. A civilizational conflict informed by cultural distinctions is at the heart of every significant contemporary issue — territorial disputes‚ trade disagreements‚ inclusion in global banking systems‚ etc. Take‚ for instance‚ the recent attack on Israel by Hamas: The Jewish state’s very existence is antithetical to the cultural priorities of political Islam. It’s no different with the U.S. and China. American benevolence in trade with China hasn’t stopped China from stealing billions of dollars in intellectual property‚ chipping away at our national security apparatus‚ or committing human rights atrocities. Diplomatic pressures have no effect on preventing these actions‚ either. The two most powerful countries — one convinced of its responsibility to globally evangelize on behalf of Western values and the other perceiving itself to occupy the space between the heavens and the earth — hail from diametrically opposed civilizational traditions. They cannot meaningfully collaborate in ways that are truly sustainable because their civilizational visions are incompatible. While analyzing American and Chinese cultural norms and approaches to governance in 2017‚ Graham Allison‚ author of "Destined for War: Can America and China Escape Thucydides’s Trap?" further juxtaposed these contradictory civilizational visions. America’s core value is freedom; China’s is order. The American exemplar is a missionary; the Chinese exemplar is inimitable. America seeks immediate solutions; China delays gratification. America pursues societal change through invention; China pursues it through a process of cultural restoration and evolution. American foreign policy relies on cooperative international order; China’s relies on harmonious hierarchy in which its rivals understand they are ultimately subservient. Writing for the Harvard Kennedy School’s Belfer Center in 2015‚ former Australian PM Kevin Rudd said‚ “China has also generated a self-referential body of philosophical thought and way of thinking that does not readily yield to the epistemological demands and intellectual taxonomies of the Western academy. And within this philosophical system‚ Confucianism in its various forms lies at the core.” The Chinese and American visions for the future are simply incompatible. China perceives its adversaries as perpetually uncivilized and “barbaric‚” while the United States insists on an open civilization in which everyone operates in good faith. China is our greatest geopolitical adversary and is explicitly working to undermine the U.S. both at home and abroad. But even if we ignore rising tensions between the U.S. and China and what currently appears to be an inevitable clash‚ it is naive to assume we could mutually benefit from collaborating on something as existential as artificial intelligence. AI has the power not just to reshape the global economy but to redefine humanity’s very relationship with nature and nature’s God. Any relationship the U.S. and tech leaders pursue abroad‚ pertaining to its regulation and development‚ must be with those who are civilizationally aligned.

A 13-year-old boy has been arrested and charged in connection to an alleged plan to carry out a mass shooting at a Jewish synagogue in Ohio.On September 1‚ more than a month before Hamas' vicious attacks on Israel‚ the Stark County Sheriff’s Office got word that a 13-year-old boy had supposedly been making plans to commit a mass shooting at Temple Israel in Canton. The Canton Repository reported that the "threat was discovered ... in Plain Township‚" eight miles or so north of Canton‚ though it is unknown where the boy lives.According to reports‚ the juvenile‚ who has not been named because of his age‚ shared his plans on the online message server Discord. Once deputies learned about the allegedly violent plot‚ they felt compelled to share it with various people and agencies‚ court documents said‚ perhaps to warn them. As might be expected‚ the news caused some to panic.The "detailed plan to complete a mass shooting at the Temple Israel on the Discord platform ... required an immediate investigatory response and notification of public individuals and agencies including the school system in which caused significant public alarm within those agencies‚" court documents claimed. Stark County teen accused of planning mass shooting at Canton synagogue www.youtube.com The boy was arrested and charged with misdemeanor counts of inducing panic and disorderly conduct. The New York Post noted that it is unclear whether the boy ever truly intended to carry out the shooting or whether weapons were ever recovered at his residence when he was arrested.The boy is scheduled to appear in Stark County Family Court on December 20.The Anti-Defamation League of Cleveland released a statement‚ saying it was “horrified that a young teen has been arrested and accused of planning a mass shooting at a synagogue in Canton‚ Ohio. We thank law enforcement for its thorough investigation."And for young people like this suspect‚ we hope this can be a teachable moment. Hate and threats on social media‚ as in real life‚ cannot and will not be tolerated‚" the group added.Rabbi David Komerofsky of Temple Israel declined to comment on the allegations because they involve a minor.Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

On Tuesday‚ a group of Virginia elementary students fell ill and needed medical attention after they ingested gummy bears from a bag that contained residue that tested positive for fentanyl.Seven fourth-grade students at Central Elementary School in Amherst "experienced a reaction to ingesting gummy bears‚" according to the Amherst County Sheriff's Office. Five of the students required medical attention.Amherst County Public Schools Superintendent William Wells stated that the students experienced symptoms including nausea‚ vomiting‚ headache‚ and muscle spasms.ACPS sent a notice to parents on Tuesday afternoon alerting them about the incident‚ stating that the students "experienced an allergic reaction to something they ingested at school.""Of the seven affected students‚ five sought medical treatment‚" the notice read. "Two students were transported by Amherst County EMS and three students were transported by their parents."On Wednesday‚ Wells said that law enforcement found that the gummy bears tested negative for any foreign substances‚ but residue inside the plastic sandwich bag tested positive for fentanyl."At this point‚ we believe the bag containing the fentanyl got contaminated either at home or on route to school as the student was being transported by their caregiver to school‚" Wells continued. "There's no indication there's any other fentanyl at the school." One of the students reportedly brought the bag from home and shared the gummy bears with six classmates during lunch. Amherst County Sheriff's Office spokesperson Lt. Dallas Hill noted that the sibling of the student who brought the candy also brought a bag of gummy bears to school; however‚ that bag did not test positive for fentanyl‚ ABC News reported.Kristina Wright‚ the mother of one student who consumed the gummy bears‚ wrote in a post on Facebook that her son's "tests all came back normal with no traces of fentanyl."Wright's 10-year-old son told WSET‚ "I tried one; it tasted weird.""Then it tasted good. The aftertaste‚ it tasted really good‚" he said.Wright's son‚ who said he ate 10 gummy bears‚ explained that he and the other students felt ill afterward."We felt nauseous‚ sick in our stomachs‚ hot‚" he added.Two adults were later arrested in connection with the incident.Clifford Dugan was arrested and charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and being a convicted felon in possession of a firearm. Nicole Sanders was also charged with contributing to the delinquency of a minor and possession of a controlled substance. Additional charges are possible‚ according to Hill.At this time‚ the relationship between the students and the suspects is unclear.All of the students were released from the hospital and returned home Tuesday. Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Rep. Rashida Tlaib (D-Mich.) said she "was completely heartbroken" by Democrats who voted to censure her over comments about the Israel-Palestine war.The representative from Michigan spoke to MSNBC's Joy Reid and referred to herself as a person who wants peace and likes to conduct "heart-to-heart" talks with her colleagues about issues.As reported by Breitbart‚ Tlaib also referred to Republicans as fascists and expressed disappointment in Democrats who voted alongside them."I did not know that they were going to stand with the fascist side of the aisle and silence the only Palestinian-American‚ even after we’ve had heart-to-heart conversations‚" Tlaib explained.In a vote to censure her‚ 22 Democrats joined 212 Republicans for a total vote of 234-188 in favor of censuring. A censure is described by the Senate as a "condemnation or denouncement‚" as well as a "formal statement of disapproval in the form of a resolution that is adopted by majority vote.""I tell them that I have as much at stake than any other person that continues to believe in certain policies when it comes to Israel and Palestine‚ because my family is there‚" Tlaib continued."I believe in coexistence. … I really believe we can have a country that was like when my grandparents were born‚ honestly‚ where every faith was welcome‚ where my grandfather picked olives next to his Jewish neighbor. And that’s the dream that I have for the Palestinian people and the Israeli people. And I know we’re going to be able to get that‚ but not in silencing a Palestinian-American in Congress‚" the congresswoman argued.Tlaib cried in the House of Representatives as she defended her position‚ one of many times she has done so in the public eye.Tlaib cried during a public speech in November 2023 when she condemned the Biden administration for its response to Palestine's attack on Israel.The politician received support from fellow Rep. Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez (D-N.Y.) when she cried on the House floor in February 2021 while describing death threats she had received. She cried later that year during a press conference when she called for the punishment of Rep. Lauren Boebert (R-Colo.) for "invoking violence on Muslims."In August 2019‚ Tlaib also cried alongside Rep. Ilhan Omar (D-Minn.) while giving a speech about growing up in the "blackest city in the country."Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

A Florida man took deputies on an unusual ride back to headquarters when he allegedly stole an ambulance and then accidentally drove it to the sheriff's station.Late Saturday night‚ just before midnight‚ a deputy with the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office came to the aid of medics in Watertown‚ Florida‚ located about halfway between Tallahassee and Jacksonville. The medics were attending to a man described in a sheriff's office press release as "experiencing an altered mental state and possibly under the influence of drugs."The man they were treating‚ later identified as 35-year-old Stanley Williams‚ somehow managed to gain access to the ambulance and took off‚ the sheriff's office said. The deputy then got into his vehicle and followed in hot pursuit. He contacted other deputies to inform them about the situation as well.Within a few minutes‚ the suspect made a wrong turn and headed straight for the Columbia County Sheriff’s Office Operations Center. Williams appears to have driven the ambulance across the operations center lawn and then brought it a halt right in front of the front door.At that point‚ he seemed to realize he had nowhere else to go and‚ as "Inside Edition" described it‚ he practically "fell out of" the ambulance and onto the lawn by the sheriff station's main entrance. Cops Chase Stolen Ambulance to Sheriff’s Office: Sheriff www.youtube.com Williams was immediately taken into custody "without further incident‚" the press release said. He was then taken to a nearby hospital for further evaluation. He has since been charged with grand theft and fleeing and eluding.During the brief chase of about three miles or so‚ Williams allegedly hit a curb with some force‚ causing damage to an ambulance tire. The press release also noted that the operations center property suffered "minor cosmetic damage to the lawn‚" but otherwise nothing — and nobody — was hurt."It’s not every day a pursuit ends at our front door‚" Sheriff Mark Hunter said about the incident. "This just goes to show that we never know what we will encounter from one moment to the next. I’m glad nobody was hurt and the suspect was not able to pose a greater risk to our community."Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

At this point‚ everyone knows that Project MKUltra was a program designed by the CIA to illegally experiment on humans. However‚ most of us look at it through the lens of the past rather than through the lens of the present. Psychological operations Army veteran and author Boone Cutler is afraid that not only is it still happening‚ social media and lockdowns have made the threat more imminent and widespread than ever. Cutler tells Pat Gray that the COVID lockdowns presented “such a great opportunity” to brainwash the masses. “They’re in front of screens 24 hours a day. What a great opportunity to test‚ manipulate‚ to push‚ to identify segments of people that are going to be against you and identify segments of people that are going to be for you‚” Cutler says. “They just needed to make sure they were in front of their screens 24 hours a day‚ for weeks and weeks and months on end‚” he continues. When Jeffy asks Cutler if the only solution is to “give up the computer” that he has in his hand‚ Cutler responds‚ “Yeah‚ but you won’t do it.” However‚ he does offer some solutions. On the national level‚ Cutler believes we need legislation that “blocks the foreign AI systems from being launched in the United States against our country because these are the nuclear weapons of our time.” At the state level‚ “we need to have a coalition of states to get away from the federal government. Decentralize things. Make each state self-sufficient independently with food‚ water‚ and energy. These things have to happen right away.” The last level is in your home. “This machine that I’m sitting in front of right now‚ the one that you’re sitting in front of‚ the one that people are watching. It is your priest‚ your prostitute‚ it is your counselor‚ your financial adviser‚ it’s your best friend. It’s literally your ‘Dear Abby’ for every single thing you would never tell anybody else on the planet. You put it out on these machines‚” Cutler says. “It is curated in data sets‚ and these data sets are used to train artificial intelligence‚ specifically for AI-driven psychological programming‚” he adds. Want more from Pat Gray?To enjoy more of Pat's biting analysis and signature wit as he restores common sense to a senseless world‚ subscribe to BlazeTV — the largest multi-platform network of voices who love America‚ defend the Constitution‚ and live the American dream.

The Biden Department of Justice failed to get a conviction last month in the federal civil rights case against the former Louisville detective who returned fire during a drug raid when shot at by Breonna Taylor's boyfriend. Despite admitting ahead of the Nov. 17 mistrial that it would take "enormous resources ... to retry this case‚" federal prosecutors revealed this week they plan to refile charges against former Detective Brett Hankison. What's the background? Louisville Metro Police Department narcotics detectives attempted to execute a "no-knock" search warrant around 12:43 a.m. on March 13‚ 2020. The apparently falsified warrant pertained to a drug investigation involving 26-year-old Breonna Taylor's ex-boyfriend‚ Jamarcus Glover. Police indicated they knocked repeatedly‚ announced their presence‚ then utilized a ram to gain entry. At the time‚ Taylor was inside the apartment with her then-boyfriend‚ Kenneth Walker‚ reported WHAS-TV. When the police got the door open‚ Walker opened fire‚ striking Sgt. Jonathan Mattingly in the upper thigh and hitting his femoral artery. Officers returned fire. In the exchange‚ Taylor was struck multiple times and killed. Mattingly survived‚ and Walker‚ initially charged with attempted murder of a police officer‚ later had his case dismissed. Hankison reportedly fired 10 shots during the incident but did not hit Taylor or anyone else. He was nevertheless kicked off the force in June 2020 and ended up being the only officer criminally charged in the raid — with three counts of wanton endangerment. The former detective was ultimately found not guilty of the wanton endangerment state charges last year. Mistrial Attorney General Merrick Garland — facing sustained pressure from Taylor's family and activists — announced charges for Hankison and the other officers involved in the fatal raid in August 2022. Hankison was indicted accordingly for two civil rights offenses and accused of willfully using "unconstitutionally excessive force‚ while acting in his official capacity as an officer‚ when he fired his service weapon into Taylor’s apartment through a covered window and covered glass door." The indictment noted that multiple bullets fired by the former detective traveled through the wall of Taylor's apartment and into neighboring apartments‚ endangering a pregnant woman‚ her partner‚ and their son. During the trial‚ the former detective claimed his actions were the result of an attempt to defend himself and his fellow officers after seeing Mattingly catch a bullet from a shadowy figure who he figured was armed with a rifle‚ reported CNN. "I felt helpless knowing that I had a handgun and I was facing rifle fire‚" Hankison testified. "Even though I had a tactical vest on‚ I knew that was no match for if the shooter came out with the rifle." "I knew they were trying to get to him‚ and it appeared to me they were being executed with this rifle‚" continued Hankison. "I returned fire through the sliding glass door‚ and that did not stop the threat." The Hill reported that after several days of deliberation in November‚ the 12-member jury notified U.S. District Judge Rebecca Grady Jennings that they were at an impasse. Jennings implored them to keep trying. While they obliged her‚ their continued efforts were in vain. Learning that the jury was deadlocked on both counts against Hankison‚ Jennings declared a mistrial on Nov. 17. "I think the totality of the circumstances may be beyond repair in this case‚" said Jennings. "They have a disagreement that they cannot get past." As the 47-year-old former officer was not acquitted‚ he remained susceptible to a retrial. Retrial While federal prosecutor Michael Songer indicated a retrial will be costly‚ an attorney for the Taylor family told reporters last month‚ "The assistant U.S. attorneys from the Department of Justice did indicate that it is their intention to retry Brett Hankison in this case." Sure enough‚ federal prosecutors informed Hankison during a status hearing Wednesday that they plan to refile charges‚ the former detective's attorneys‚ Stew Matthews and Ibrahim Farag‚ confirmed to CNN. A status hearing is reportedly set for Jan. 24‚ and a trial date has tentatively been set for Oct. 14. Jack Byrd‚ another attorney for Hankison‚ filed a new motion of acquittal over the weekend‚ noting‚ "The evidence presented by the government in this case is insufficient to sustain a conviction on any of the Counts." Judge Declares Mistrial In Case Of Former Officer Charged In Breonna Taylor Raid youtu.be Like Blaze News? Bypass the censors‚ sign up for our newsletters‚ and get stories like this direct to your inbox. Sign up here!

Amid intense political debates over gun violence‚ so-called red-flag laws and other gun control policies that impact the free exercise of our Second Amendment rights are the cause of the moment. While proponents argue that such policies foster public safety‚ restricting individual rights presents a dangerous slippery slope. Senator John Kennedy (R-La.) recently highlighted the reality of restricted Second Amendment rights as he spoke about disarming our nation’s veterans. He explained how veterans are essentially being disarmed for nothing more than needing help managing their financial affairs — a disgraceful affront to constitutional rights that has been going on for years. Under current law‚ the Department of Veterans Affairs can report veterans to the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System if they require an assigned fiduciary to help them manage their pension or disability benefits‚ flagging them as unable to purchase a firearm. This has stripped a constitutional right from law-abiding citizens who sacrificed for and served this nation. Yet very few Americans even knew it was happening until Kennedy went to bat to stop it. Consider how many Americans need assistance with financial planning and management and might meet the standard to be disarmed should such a practice spread from the V.A. This red-flag practice with veterans exemplifies one of the major dangers of red-flag laws. The danger lies in the subjective nature of deciding who poses a risk and the significant potential for misuse or overuse. Of particular concern is the potential to weaponize the subjectivity of red-flag laws for personal vendettas‚ political motivations‚ or simple misunderstandings‚ taking advantage of a slippery slope that may not seem all that concerning right now. The unintended — or perhaps completely intended — consequences for law-abiding citizens and the freedom this nation enjoys could be catastrophic‚ which is why appropriate concern is necessary. Second Amendment rights and the potential violation of them by the VA are especially concerning for Texas‚ which is home to America’s largest veteran population and first in gun ownership. With almost half of Texas adults reporting they have guns in their homes‚ the state is on the front line of the gun control issue. Unfortunately‚ the situation in Texas is also becoming worrisome. The Texas House earlier this year passed legislation across party lines that adds new NICS reporting requirements for gun purchases. While lawmakers may claim to have good intentions‚ we should be wary of any law that gives greater regulatory power to an increasingly authoritarian government — and any lawmaker who doesn’t see the danger in that. Such laws can set a dangerous precedent. If we allow the erosion of one fundamental right‚ where do we draw the line? We must tread carefully‚ considering not just the immediate or well-intentioned impact but also the long-term consequences for our nation. A society that willingly sacrifices individual liberties for the sake of supposed and subjective security may find itself in a perilous situation. As Benjamin Franklin famously said‚ “Those who would give up essential Liberty‚ to purchase a little temporary Safety‚ deserve neither Liberty nor Safety.” Our communities deserve representatives who will safeguard their rights and freedoms by recognizing laws and policies that would encroach upon them to serve activist agendas. We must do everything in our power to prevent carefully crafted narratives and slippery-slope policies from leading to dangerously authoritarian laws that undermine our freedoms. America was founded to guarantee and protect liberty‚ and we must uphold the core values that are fundamental to safeguarding our constitutional rights. They are the fabric of American greatness. The lives and futures of free and law-abiding American citizens might well depend on it.