Imagine a creature so elegant that even kings and queens paused to admire it; a legacy of dog world, where some once walked among royalty. In the grand tapestry of aristocratic history, these pals served as symbols of refinement, cultural prestige and devotion. They carried an aura of nobility that transcended time.
The royalty was not impressed by only their appearances, but with the elegance that lived in their posture, and the dignity in how they moved beside monarchs. However, these calm companions were not selected by accident; they were chosen for purity, relaxed temperament and an ability to reflect the refinement of their humans.
They embodied a certain nobility; remain calm during ceremonies, devoted during long journeys and comforting during nights. They were protected by royal decree, and treated as part o their family.
Elegant Dog Breeds Once Owned by Royalty: A Regal Companionship Guide
1. Saluki
Saluki is not only adored by the royal families of Egypt but also one of the oldest known breeds in the dog world. These dogs were highly appreciated by Egyptian pharaohs and their images are depicted in ancient Egyptian tombs reflecting their significance in their lives as well as in their deaths.
Saluki is originally bred as hunting dog breed, thanks to their powerful and elegant bodies. Their hunting skills were so awesome that hey were used to provide food to nomadic tribes by taking down the gazelles, hares and foxes, says Pet MD.
These affectionate dogs are highly active and better suited to families who want canines for outdoor activities, such as hiking, and hunting. Since Salukis prefer calm and quiet environments, they are not enough kid friendly dogs. Training a saluki is a difficult challenge due to its stubborn nature.
2. Shih Tzu
While these lion dogs hails from Tibet, but they also were sent to the Chinese royalty especially to their courts. Shih tzu were majorly bred to look like lions, but in ancient China royal families preferred them as lap dogs and for companionship.
Shih tzu is a beautiful dog breed, with spunky and alert personality. Their flowing coats need regular grooming so that they can look adorable. Their energy levels are easy going and calm, that include short walks and indoor play sessions with their owners.
Overall, this toy dog has friendly and gentle nature. This wonderful family dog gets along well with other dogs and children. According to AKC, Shih tzu is a people oriented breed, which is why positive reinforcement methods in training sessions work best for them.
3. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
England has also a dog breed that has been remained favorite of their royalty for so long. During 17th century King Charles I and his son King Charles ii enjoyed the companionship of Cavalier king Charles spaniel. This breed’s popularity is based on its comforting nature and appealing appearance.
Cavaliers has a long royal history; King Charles ii was so obsessed with this beauty, that he ordered a decree to allow its entry in public places. He also used to take his dog with him at every gathering and meeting, including parliament.
From the palaces of Kings to the rooms of aristocratic women, Cavalier king Charles spaniel today enjoys its status as charming, cute and easy going cuddling partner. They also make ideal choice for new pet parents, due to their people pleasing and gentle nature, highlighted by Hill’s Pet.
4. Pekingese
Pekingese has long history as it dates back over 2000 years, and were literally bred as companion dogs for Chinese emperors. Since they were allowed to be the only pets for Chinese royalty millennia ago, Pekingese were considered sacred dogs at that time.
These cherished companions were also become one of the favorites of queen Victoria when the British soldiers brought them in 20th century after 2nd Opium war. Besides their natural markings on fur, these small dogs have almost 4 to 5 pounds weight making sleeve dogs fitting and acted as surprise guards.
Regardless of their long history supported by Chinese and British royalty, Nature bless Pekingese with intelligent and good temperament. With modest exercise needs, social disposition, easy to train nature, these pooches make excellent companions for people of all ages.
5. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Susan named Pembroke Welsh corgi breed was gifted to Queen Elizabeth ii on her 18th birthday in 1944. After that she had almost 20 dogs of this cute canine breed, but Susan was the one who enjoyed all honeymoon trips with the princess.
Short and lively Pembroke Welsh corgi are surprisingly quick and agile dogs. With great hearing senses they also form good guard dogs and farm dogs. They are prone to depression and obesity, if their exercise needs are less than one to hours
Pembroke corgi are eager to please and easy to tarin. Their active personality excel in dog sports like agility, herding and obedience. Since they were primarily used for herding cattle, they also try to nip at the heels of children and bark in excitement.
Fun Fact: While Pembroke corgi are friendly dogs, even the royal staff and visitors had not escaped from their innate herding skills, and the Queen’s dogs made headlines on numerous occasions for nipping at them.
6. Greyhound
Greyhounds are the proud dogs who were the favorites of different royal families in different eras as well as in different regions. Royal members of ancient Egypt admired these dogs due to their speed and sleek build and used them for hunting purposes.
Greyhound was also regarded throughout the history within imperial courts of ancient Egypt. Some says that they were worshipped as gods and also reserved for the royalty only. Their long history revealed that Alexander the Great also favored this breed and had a dog named Peritas.
Though greyhound loves running, but overall they are relaxed and low key dogs. This breed has an independent spirit with less grooming needs. Their majestic appearance has been featured in many portraits by famous artists during middle ages. They were allowed to be kept by the nobility only, and thus considered as status symbols in the homes of rich families.
7. Poodle
Keen smartness, and sophisticated personality of Poodle made the European aristocracy to have this breed as its companion. When we stepped back into the past, Poodles were originally bred as water retrievers. However, after their adoption by King Louis as luxury pets they gain popularity in French nobility as well.
Companionship, and dignified presence of poodles are the main reasons, depicting their status and respect. Queen Victoria had a special affiliation with poodles and she also solidified their image as one of grace and refinement.
Today, curly coated poodles come in three various sizes including standard, miniature and toy. This breed is highly adaptable versatile and athletic. Top of all, their hypoallergenic coat makes them one of the best small dog breeds for people suffering with dog allergies.
8. Labrador Retriever
King George vi was a huge fan of Labrador Retriever and he bred this canine as companion and working partner. He particularly loved the yellow Labs more. After that, this legacy was continued and favored by queen Elizabeth ii as well, who owned at least 20 of this breed and kept them as gun dogs.
Labrador retrievers have even and gentle temperament and originate from Newfoundland. They make one of the most friendliest dog breeds. Regardless of their amiable nature, labs excel as police dogs, therapy dogs and guide dogs as well.
Their boundless energy remain constant throughout their living years, and they are well sited to active families only. Swimming, hiking, hunting and running are some outdoor activities they love the most. Just like an ideal big dog, labs are perfect option for families with children and multi pet households.
9. Pharaoh Hound
This dog traces its roots back to ancient times of Egypt and is ranked among the oldest dog breeds. 5000 years old breed, Pharaoh hound has been seen in various old art forms such as tomb paintings. Currently they are prized as national dog of Malta and also considered noble and popular dogs.
In aristocracy these dogs were famous for having exceptional hunting skills. More interestingly, Pharaoh Hound has a unique trait; in excited states, they blush. These sighthounds with slim build and affectionate nature make great family dogs.
Owing to their Smooth and short coats, they are low maintenance dogs. The old elegance and striking appearance of Pharaoh Hound is still there as their mummified ancestors bear a remarkable resemblance with the current ones.
Conclusion
Even today one can imagine why these royal dogs once captivated the hearts of monarchs. What feels regal itself is not only their irresistible looks but their affectionate temperament, presence and loyalty. Their role in the history of royalty proves one thing that love knows no ranks, not even a crown. In modern times, their legacy lives on; though not in jeweled collars, in the nobility they still carry. And may be this is the greatest and oldest gift they left behind ; a reminder that true elegance is not worn but felt.
