Dogs make beloved companions. They are valued for their distinctive physical and behavioral traits. Many of them are also loved for their historical backgrounds. For instance, some were bred to serve and accompany royalty.
Having that said, certain dog breeds carry themselves as if they were destined for a palace. They exude pure elegance, grace, and charm. Their aristocratic bearing and dignified presence remind us that royalty comes in many forms.
These canine companions thrive on admiration and the desire to be pampered. They cherish finer things in life and may ask for the best seat in the house. Living with them feels like sharing your space with canine royalty.
Have a look at the top 10 dog breeds with a truly royal air.
Top Dog Breeds With a Truly Royal Air
1. Afghan Hound
Originally bred to hunt in the rugged terrains of Afghan mountains, Afghan Hounds are the canines with a regal appearance. Their long and flowing coat, slender build, and pointed muzzles give them a glamorous look.
The American Kennel Club describes them as ‘dignified aristocrats of sublime beauty.’ Afghan Hounds have an aloof temperament and are somewhat aloof towards strangers. However, they are profoundly loyal to their owners and exhibit silly side of their personality to their loved ones.
The catwalk model manner of these elegant sighthounds makes them look incredibly pawsome. Afghan Hounds have an independent streak and may be a bit challenging to train. Some owners point out that no amount of training can overcome their hunting and chasing instincts.
2. Saluki
Known as the ‘Royal dog of Egypt,’ Saluki is one of the oldest dog breeds. These canines served as hunting dogs of royalty for several thousand years. The breed was highly values by Egyptian Pharaohs. Many of them were mummified with their owners.
These slender and graceful canines still hold a royal air. Salukis have an independent yet loyal personality. They are the sprinters of the dog world having very strong and perfectly balanced bodies, just like an athlete or a dancer.
Salukis are adaptable dogs capable of living and working in various environments. Crate training and basic obedience training are highly recommended for them. They can get regular exercise and mental stimulation through canine sports like agility, flyball, and lure coursing.
3. Shih Tzu
With its name litterally translating to ‘lion dog,’ Shih Tzu is an ancient small dog breed hailing from China. They were originally bred as companion dogs for the royal court. These fluffy dogs were sometimes carried inside the robes of noble women and used as lap warmers.
Till date, Shih Tzus make wonderful lap dogs and popular pets. These active and friendly dogs may be small in size, but have big personalities. Their beautiful and luxurious coat needs plenty of grooming to keep looking beautiful.
According to PetMD, Shih Tzus tend to be great around kids and other animals. However, you need to teach your kids how to behave with a small dog. Shih Tzus have a sweet disposition. They love cuddling and spending time with their humans.
4. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Cavalier King Charles Spaniels are sweet, gentle, and affectionate toy dogs. These royal dogs were a part of European court and were bred to be lap dogs. That is why they earned the nickname ‘comforter spaniels.’
Cavaliers got their name from the British Royalty in the 17th century. King Charles I and King Charles II were huge fans of these dogs and used to take them everywhere, including Parliament. Their friendly nature makes them ideal pets for first time dog owners.
These cute dogs are highly adaptable and adjust well with lazy couch potatoes as well as active owners. Cavalier King Charles Spaniels thrive on human companionship and should not be left alone for too long. Otherwise, they can develop separation anxiety.
5. Pekingese
Pekingese is another royal dog breed associated with ancient Chinese emperors. With their history dating back to 200BC, Pekes are loving, friendly, and outgoing dogs. They can be easily recognized by their lion like manes.
Some Pekingese were bred so small that they weighed no more than five pounds. They were called to be ‘sleeve sized’ as they could be held in large sleeves of traditional clothing. These little lion dogs form deep connections with their humans.
Once owned exclusively by the Chinese imperial family, Pekingese hold a long and noble history. Today, they make best four legged friends you could ask for. These lively and intelligent dogs have an independent demeanor and make excellent watchdogs, explains the Royal Canin.
6. Pembroke Welsh Corgi
You cannot think of modern royalty without thinking of Pembroke Welsh Crogi. This royal dog was Queen Elizabeth II of England’s favorite breed. She owned over 30 of these dogs druing her reign. The Queen received her first Pembroke Welsh Corgi named ‘Dookie’ in 1933 when she was a young girl.
He was a gift to Queen Elizabeth and her sister from their father. Pembroke Welsh Corgi is a robust and athletic herding dog. These friendly and energetic dogs have an eager to please nature, so they enjoy training and learning new things.
Due to their herding history, they thrive on having a job to do. Pembrokes need exercise and mental stimulation every day to avoid destructive behaviors like chewing and excessive barking. They get on well with other dogs and are playful around kids.
7. Greyhound
Greyhounds are one of the oldest dog breeds known to man. Their origins trace as far back as ancient Egypt, where they were worshipped as gods and their ownership was reserved only for the royalty. These royal dogs were owned by Egyptian Pharaohs.
You can even find them in Greek and Roman art and mythology. Alexander the Great also had a Greyhound named Peritas. Their athleticism and poise continue to win hearts globally. Greyhounds are gentle, noble, and sweet tempered dogs.
They have been an object of fascination for poets and artists for a long time. Often reffered to as cheetahs of the canine world, Greyhounds are perfectly happy to lounge all day long. At the same time, they are capable of incredible speed. Properly trained pups make great pets.
8. Poodle
Known their sophisticated haircuts and keen intelligence, Poodles have long been associated with European nobility. Queen Victoria had a special affection for Poodles and that is how they made their way to royal courts.
Poodles were originally bred as hunting dogs. French King Louis XIV known as the ‘Sun King,’ owned a Poodle named Filou. During English Civil War, Prince Rupert of the Rhine had a Poodle named ‘Boy.’ Their versatility and charm made them famous among the aristocracy.
Showcasing regal poise and playful spirit, Poodles are extremely intelligent dogs who can be trained very easily. Their hypoallergenic coats make them ideal pets for allergy sufferers. Poodles excel in variety of canine sports including agility and obedience.
9. Labrador Retriever
Labrador Retrievers are medium sized Sporting dogs, originally bred as water retrievers. They were big favorites of King George VI who bred them as both pets and working dogs at the royal estates of Balmoral and Sandringham.
Queen Elizabeth II owned 20 of this breed. Labradors are one of the most popular dog breeds in the U.S., loved for their easygoing and friendly demeanor. Their athleticism and high energy levels mean they need lots of exercise for physical and mental stimulation.
Labradors are very social and get along nicely with everyone including kids, other pets, and strangers. They make wonderful playmates for children. Labradors are highly intelligent and respond well to positive reinforcement based training methods.
10. Pharaoh Hound
Another old dog breed, Pharaoh Hounds have their roots tracing back to ancient Egypt. These royal dogs get their name directly from their association with the Pharaohs of Egypt. Pharaoh Hounds are seen in various art forms, such as wall paintings shown in tombs.
Other breeds of similar hunting dogs were owned by Tutankhamen and Cleopetra. Pharaoh Hound is Malta’s national dog and remains noble and popular till date. Pharaoh Hounds are valued because of their blushing face and excellent hunting skills.
This rugged sprinting hound was bred to course small game over punishing terrain. While they are quiet and tenacious on scent, Pharaoh Hounds tend to be affectionate at home. They have a graceful movement and need regular exercise to stay fit.
Conclusion
Some dog breeds hold a royal air and are valued for their aristocratic bearing. They have their historical lineage associated with royal palaces and it is highly reflected in their attitude. Their graceful movement and adorable looks make them look super cool.
These canines may have an independent streak due to their historical backgrounds. However, they are incredibly loyal to their owners and form deep bonds with their owners. Many of them make loving lap dogs.
