14 famous dog breeds that turned out to be very ancient (15 photos)

The variety of dogs can make your head spin. Among them there are several breeds that formed earlier than others. Here is a selection of familiar dog breeds that were among the first to appear.





Now in the world there are about 400 breeds of dogs of various sizes, colors and degrees of hairiness. They all appeared at different times, but there are 14 breeds that formed earlier than the others. Analysis of their DNA showed that their genotype differs least from that of a wolf, which means these dogs have existed for a long time and have changed little during this time. Among these breeds you can find both those that really look like wolves, and those that resemble their ancestor except for the presence of a tail and a wet nose.

Saluki



The breed was formed in the nomadic tribes of Bedouin Arabs. Images of Salukis can be found in ancient Egyptian burials.

Basenji





Basenjis appeared in Central Africa about 5,000 years ago. In Ancient Egypt, these dogs were given to the pharaohs.

Akita Inu



The breed was bred in the province of the same name on the Japanese island of Honshu. These dogs were used to hunt large animals - bear, deer and wild boar.

Samoyed dog



Afghan Hound



According to one legend, Afghan hound dogs were one of those animals that Noah took on his ark.

Alaskan Malamute



The breed owes its name to the Malemiut tribe. Alaskan Malamutes were originally bred and adapted for harness work.

Lhasa apso



The breed was developed in Tibet. Its name consists of two words. Lhasa is the capital of Tibet, and “apso” translates to “bearded.”

Pekingese



Previously, Pekingese were the dogs of the Chinese emperor, and ordinary people were prohibited from owning them. There is a legend about the origin of this breed. According to her, the lion fell in love with the monkey, and they gave birth to a Pekingese, who inherited the character of his father and the appearance of his mother.

Shiba Inu



Most likely, this breed is more than 3000 years old, and it appeared on the territory of modern Japan.

Siberian Husky



Siberian Huskies were bred by the Chukchi in Northeast Siberia as sled dogs.

Tibetan Terrier



This breed appeared on the territory of modern Tibet.

Chow chow



It is believed that the first representatives of this breed appeared in the steppes of Northern China and Mongolia. In the past they were used for hunting and protection.

Shar Pei



There are two theories about the origin of this breed. According to the first, Shar-Peis descended from smooth-haired Chow Chows. According to the second, the ancestors of this breed were ancient mastiffs.

Shih Tzu



It is difficult to accurately determine the homeland of this breed. This place could be Tibet or Byzantium.