Have you wondered about the oldest dog breeds and how old they are? Ancient carvings and fossils have revealed that some dog species have been around for thousands of years. But is your pet one of the oldest ruling our hearts? In celebration of National Dog Day, the article explores ancient dog breeds of human companions that hold historical and cultural significance.
The Beginning of Domestication
The domestication of dogs began tens of thousands of years ago, maybe around the time when humans shifted from a nomadic to an agricultural lifestyle. It is said that the dogs are direct descendants of the gray wolf.
Early Human-Wolf Interactions
It is believed that wolves may have been hunting companions of the Paleolithic hunter-gatherers, and their interactions were promoted by coming together in a compact social and ecological match between humans and wolves.
Theories On Why Wolves Were Domesticated
There are multiple theories about the domestication of wolves, and one theory is that ancient people may have taken wolf pups from their dens, fed, trained, and tamed them. However, another notable theory suggests that wolves were attracted to food scraps around the areas where humans resided about 15,000 years ago. What happened was that some wolves stopped fearing humans and became tamed.
Genetic Studies on the Wolf-Dog Transition
The genetic studies suggest that gray wolves and dogs share 99.9% of their DNA. Earlier genetic studies revealed that the wolf-to-dog transformation and domestication occurred in East Asia. However, a more recent study of village dogs suggests that it happened in Central Asia. Moreover, a new study discovered that dogs became humans’ friends in both Europe and East Asia, which may have occurred about 14,000 years ago.
The Oldest Dog Breeds
Here is a list of some of the oldest dog breeds you need to know.
Basenji: The Barkless Dog
So, you wake up in the morning and cannot find your Basenji. You try to hear their barks or look for them, but wait a minute! Here is what could have happened: either they jumped your fence and went out because their hunting instinct kicked in, or they are only lying in one of the rooms and are quiet because that is how they are.
Origin and history
The Basenji originated on the continent of Africa and is probably the oldest breed of domesticated dog.
This dog breed was used for hunting by the tribes in Congo. Moreover, since these dogs cannot produce a bark (can only growl or make a yodel sound), they had a bell around their neck to make their humans aware of their whereabouts in the jungle.
Unique traits and characteristics
Basenjis are called barkless dogs, because they cannot bark and can only growl or make a yodeling sound. With pointed ears, tightly wound tails, and long legs, Basenjis are careful about their cleanliness and clean themselves like a cat. Also, they possess keen eyesight, a strong sense of smell, and explosive speed.
Afghan Hound: The Elegant Hunter
Afghan Hounds are elegant dogs that are also highly skilled hunters.
Ancient roots in the Middle East
Some experts think that this beautiful and elegant breed came from Egypt. But the most common theory is that the Afghan Hound, one of the oldest dog breeds originated from the mountains of Afghanistan in the Middle East and was called Tazi. Afghan Hounds were trained to hunt deer and look after the herds of sheep.
Distinctive appearance and abilities
With their silky long hair, a thin build, and a narrow face, Afghan Hounds possess a beautiful and distinctive appearance. Not only that, this breed is known for running 40 miles per hour and hunting antelope and leopard.
If you are thinking of getting an Afghan Hound, here is a little heads up on their behavior - they can be aloof and stubborn, so training them can be a bit of a job, but Afghan Hounds typically make excellent family dogs. You only need to remember to keep them on a run and provide plenty of exercise.
Saluki: The Royal Dog of Egypt
Do you know Salukis are listed as the oldest dog breed in Guinness World Records? However, this is typically based on the sculptures found in Sumer of a dog that looks like Saluki.
Historical significance in ancient Egypt
The Saluki breed is not your regular dog breed; they have great significance in ancient Egypt and great value among Arab tribes. Salukis used to receive the same amount of attention as Arab horses. And so, this is why Saluki, one of the oldest and most elegant Egyptian dog breeds, is often referred to as Egyptian royalty.
Physical and behavioral traits
Salukis are used for hunting gazelle and deer thanks to their explosive speed of 42 miles per hour, contributing to their independent natures since they can run faster than humans and work alone.
Akita Inu: The Japanese Protector
Akita Inu is another one of the oldest dog breeds that works as a Japanese protector and companion.
Cultural importance in Japan
Akita Inu is highly valuable in Japanese culture - they are known for their courage, dignity, and loyalty. But what makes them so special?
When they originated in the mountains of Japan, these dogs became domesticated and were trained to hunt large game mammals, such as elks and wild boar. Akitas then served in Samurai as well. The fascinating part is that Akita is a national monument in Japan where they are revered as family protectors and emblems of happiness, good health, and a prosperous life.
Development and modern-day presence
Akita Inu, being known for their loyalty and courage, are now used as police and guard dogs by the Japanese people.
Alaskan Malamute: The Arctic Workhorse
The Alaskan Malamute is a 2000-3000-year-old dog breed famous for being the workhorse in North America.
Use by Indigenous People in the Arctic
Alaskan Malamutes lived and worked with the Inuit native tribes in North America who needed these dogs to survive. What's interesting is they were named after the Mahlemuts, an Inuit tribe settled along the Kotzebue Sound in Northwestern Alaska. Their main jobs were hauling heavy sleds at slow speeds.
Strengths and working capabilities
Alaskan Malamutes are incredibly strong-willed, confident, and independent but also playful. This breed is capable of hunting seals and other Arctic animals and being pack dogs for supplies. If you are getting an Alaskan Malamute, provide sufficient care and attention.
Tibetan Mastiff: The Guardian of the Himalayas
Tibetan Mastiff is one of the oldest dog breeds and is believed to have been around for 5,000 years. According to a theory, Mastiffs have descended from the war dogs of ancient Rome; however, there is very little genetic evidence to support this.
Tibetian livestock guardians and nomad companion
Tibetan Mastiffs were essentially used for guarding and protecting livestock and property, which made them extremely territorial.
Massive build and cold climate survivor
Mastiffs share a likeness with the Molossus which means that they are both massive and more fierce when attacking a wild beast. Also, if you live in a cold region, a Tibetan Mastiff is more likely to survive it.
Chow Chow: The Ancient Chinese Breed
Here is an interesting fact about the dog breed name Chow Chow, it is said to have been derived from the Chinese word “chou,” which means edible. Chow Chow is one of the ancient Chinese dog breeds, which, presumably, originated around the Han Dynasty over 2,000 years ago.
Ancient Chinese protector
With their massive and sturdy build, Chow Chows are considered Chinese protectors as they were companions to haulers, hunters, and guards.
Lion-like physical characteristics
You may have heard Chow Chows being called the lion of the dog world, that is because of the lion-like, magnificent mane around their neck and a scowling expression.
Cultural and Historical Significance of Dogs
Dogs have been companions to humans since the beginning of civilization. In various cultures, they were considered guardians, faithful companions, spirit guides, hunters, and a precious part of the family. According to an article by the World History Encyclopedia, in ancient Egypt, the dog was connected with the dog-jackal god, Anubis.
Conclusion
When we are talking about the oldest breed of dogs, whether it is Akita Inu or Chow Chow, it is always described as being independent and stubborn because they are genetically closer to wolves and may still have primitive characteristics. Is your pet a little stubborn? Are you curious about your dog's heritage? Explore their roots with a dog DNA test and uncover whether they belong to one of the ancient breeds.
Please consider that if you plan on getting a breed from this list, you need to provide extra care and attention to keep them happy and healthy.
