It's interesting to find out how different ancient groups relied upon dogs and how the breed's features changed based on their location and purpose. Wouldn't it be cool to say that your dog was a descendant of ancient Egypt?
1. Talbot
An ancestor of the beagle and coonhound, the talbot was known for its strong sense of smell that some have likened to the bloodhound.
2. English Water Spaniel
Extinct since the early 20th century, the English water spaniel was used for hunting water fowl.
3. Toy Bulldog
These guys were around in 18th and 19th century England and developed in an attempt to make a miniature bulldog. However, this breed faded out because they weren’t very fertile or healthy.
4. Toy Trawler Spaniel
Largely extinct by 1920, these dogs were bred to be hunting dogs but were more often enjoyed as pets.
5. Turnspit Dog
This dog was bred to be short-legged and long in order to run on a wheel that would turn meat on a spit. Also, they were used as feet warmers for parishioners at church.
6. Hare Indian Dog
Bred by the Hare Indians of Northern Canada, these dogs may have actually been domesticated coyotes. Eventually they interbred with other dogs and the breed disappeared.
7. Tesem
An ancient Egyptian hunting dog, evidence of the tesem has been found as far back as 2609 to 2584 BC!
8. Bullenbeisser
These German dogs were closely related to the modern boxer, as its extinction came at the hands of intentional crossbreeding that gave us the boxer.
9. Molossus
A favorite of Aristotle, these dogs are thought to be the ancestors of mastiffs. Though it’s not totally known, the belief is that they were used for hunting and protecting livestock.
10. Tahltan Bear Dog
Which one is your favorite? Mine is the Tahltan Bear Dog, but mostly because it looks like the perfect buddy to spend all day cuddling on the couch with. It's unfortunate that these dogs no longer exist, but we never have a shortage of loving and loyal dogs today! These extinct breeds prove that dogs have been man's (and woman's!) best friend for centuries!
Article and Photo Source: Honest to Paws
Angel Hayes
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