Some dog breeds with royal-looking faces look like they were born to rule. They walk with pride. Their faces show elegance. And their history goes way back to palaces and kings. Royal families chose these dogs for their beauty and loyalty. They shared rooms, meals, and even beds with their noble owners. Today, these dogs still have that same charm. They are sweet, smart, and full of love.
If you want a dog that’s beautiful and full of history, these royal dog breeds are worth knowing. Let’s take a look at some amazing dogs that might just steal your hearts!
Dog Breeds With Royal-Looking Faces
1. Afghan Hound
The Afghan Hound has long, shiny hair and a narrow face. Its tail curls at the end and makes it look even fancier. This dog breed came from the cold mountains of Afghanistan.
People originally bred it to chase fast animals like deer and gazelles. It could run for long distances and wait until the owner caught up. That’s why it’s called the King of Sight Hounds.
Many say the Afghan Hound is one of the oldest dog breeds. Old cave art in Afghanistan shows dogs that look just like it. Later, British soldiers brought them to England, and the American Kennel Club (AKC) added the breed in 1926.
Afghan Hounds are fast, tall, and very graceful. They can run up to 40 miles per hour. Their head shape also gives them a wide view, so they can spot prey from far away.
2. Saluki
The Saluki is another type of the oldest and most royal dog breeds in the world. Britannica states that their ancestors may date to 7000 to 6000 BCE. The pharoahs loved Salukis.
People even called them the Royal Dog of Egypt. You can still see them in old tomb paintings and art from ancient times. Bedouin tribes also used them for food.
Salukis are tall and skinny. They have long legs and soft fur. They are calm, quiet, and very loyal to their family. But don’t let their quiet look fool you.
They can run extremely fast! In fact, people in the Middle East still hold races for Salukis. And in the US, they compete in dog sports and shows.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel is sweet, soft, and full of love. It has been close to the royal family for a long time. PetMD mentions that this breed got its name from King Charles I and King Charles II of England.
These kings loved their little lap dogs so much that they took them everywhere, even to meetings and fancy dinners. Even Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Victoria had them as pets.
Today, this popular breed still ranks high with families. It’s perfect for people who want a cuddly friend with a gentle nature. These dogs were originally bred to be used as lap warmers in cold castles. Now, they warm hearts in homes all over the world.
4. Doberman Pinscher
The Doberman Pinscher is strong, sleek, and full of power. But don’t let that serious look scare you, they’re also sweet and loving at home.
This dog breed came from Germany. It was originally bred to protect people. Over time, it became one of the most elegant and trusted royal dog breeds.
Dobermans have smooth coats that come in black, red, blue, or fawn, all with rust markings. They stand tall and move with confidence. People often say they have a majestic appearance.
At home, they stick close to their people. That’s why many call them “Velcro Dogs.” They love hugs, play with children, and guard their family. The American Kennel Club ranks them in the top five for smart dogs. They learn quickly and love to stay active.
5. Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu is small but proud. It has deep roots in Chinese Royalty. Its name means “lion dog.” This dog lived in palaces during the Ming and Manchu Dynasties. Only the Royal Court could own them. If someone else kept one, they could be punished.
Chinese emperors loved these small dogs. They kept them in sleeves and used them as bed warmers during cold nights. Their soft, long coat and short nose gave them a sweet and royal look.
Even today, the Shih Tzu walks with pride. It needs regular brushing, but its soft fur is worth the effort. These loyal dogs are small in size, but they are full of love and charm.
6. Standard Poodle
The Standard Poodle is a smart and classy dog. It is one of the most royal dog breeds in Europe and a popular family pet among homeowners. This dog breed was originally bred in Germany as a water retrieving gun dog. But its beauty caught the eye of royalty, including Louis XVI in France. That’s how it ended up in royal homes.
Poodles don’t just look pretty. According to Purina, they rank number two on the list of most intelligent dog breeds! They love to learn and do well in shows, training, and even tricks.
Their curly coat doesn’t shed much. They belong to the hypoallergenic breed. This makes them suitable for people with allergies. But it does need regular grooming. The Poodle’s proud walk and sweet face still turn heads, just like it did in palaces.
7. Akita Inu
The Akita Inu is a bold and beautiful dog. But it’s calm and loving, especially with its family. This dog breed came from Japan, in a place called Akita. It was originally bred to guard homes and was even used in dog fights.
Later, people bred them to be more gentle and loyal. During World War II, the Akita almost disappeared, but people saved the breed.
The Akita Inu has a thick coat, a big body, and a curled tail. It comes in colors like red, white, brindle, and pinto. It looks serious, but it shows deep love for the people it trusts. This royal dog protects its home but stays calm. It doesn’t bark too much. It’s a quiet guard dog with a royal heart.
8. Bichon Frise
The Bichon Frise is a fluffy and cheerful dog. It has a white, curly dog that feels soft like cotton. This breed originated in the Mediterranean. It later became popular in France, especially during the Renaissance. Even King Henry III had one. These lap dogs were carried in baskets and treated like royalty.
Today, the Bichon Frise still looks like a little cloud. Its coat doesn’t shed much, which helps people with allergies. But it does need daily brushing.
These dogs are friendly and great with kids. They also do well in dog shows. Their charm made them popular with nobles back then, and they are still winning hearts today.
9. Papillon
The Papillon is small and elegant. Its name means “butterfly” in French because of its large ears that look like wings. It is one of the oldest recorded breeds, and dates back around 700 years.
You can even find them in old paintings sitting beside queens and noble ladies. But don’t let their cute look fool you! Papillons were smart hunters. They used to catch mice and other small animals.
Papillons are smart and full of energy. They learn quickly and love attention. Their silky coat and charming face make them shine in every room. They may be small, but they have big hearts and big personalities. They are perfect for someone who wants a royal dog breed that is fun and loving.
Conclusion
These dog breeds with royal-looking faces still bring beauty and love to the people around them. It can be the proud Doberman, the playful Papillon, or the graceful Afghan Hound. Then there are other breeds as well. These include the Pembroke Welsh Corgi, the Jack Russell Terrier, and the Great Pyrenees. All these royal dog breeds are more than just good-looking. They are loyal and full of heart.
They don’t need crowns or castles to show their worth. All they need is your love and maybe a soft spot on the couch. So if you are looking for a pet that looks royal and acts like family, one of these majestic breeds might just be perfect for you!
