Dog the Bounty Hunter, who, if such a contest existed, would surely be voted “White Television Personality Most Likely To Use The Word ‘Nigger,’” is, predictably, rather fond of the word “nigger.”

The National Enquirer obtained some audio (listen here) of Dog (can I call you Dog, Mr. Bounty Hunter?) expressing concern that his son’s “nigger” girlfriend would tell a tabloid that he says “nigger” all the time. Look how that worked out.

Of course, he was quick with a , filed somewhere in every publicists computer under “How to spin an N-word scandal”:

In a statement, the 54-year-old Chapman said he has “utmost respect and aloha for black people who have suffered so much due to racial discrimination and acts of hatred.

I did not mean to add yet another slap in the face to an entire race of people who have brought so many gifts to this world,” he said. “I am ashamed of myself and I pledge to do whatever I can to repair this damage I have caused.”

Chapman said, “My sincerest, heartfelt apologies go out to every person I have offended for my regrettable use of very inappropriate language. I am deeply disappointed in myself for speaking out of anger to my son and using such a hateful term in a private phone conversation.”

But he wasn’t quick enough. A&E has halted production on his reality show.

He should look to Imus for some guidance on how to proceed. These days, celebrities, even devout fans of racial slurs, know how to come out on top.

*_{Minus the “aloha” part. That was pretty original.}