1. The Pekingese
Once cherished by Chinese emperors, the Pekingese was bred to symbolize dignity and grace. These small, lion-like dogs were often carried in the wide sleeves of royalty, living among silk cushions and treated as sacred treasures. Even today, their independent charm and proud little strut remind you of their noble past. They expect soft beds, gentle handling, and plenty of admiration. When a Pekingese curls up beside you, it feels like an honor they have bestowed upon you, as if you are their chosen subject in a long-forgotten royal court.
2. Shih Tzu
Bred for centuries as companions to Chinese royalty, Shih Tzus were destined to warm the laps of emperors and empresses. Their name translates to “lion dog,” a symbol of protection and majesty. These tiny, affectionate pups carry themselves with quiet confidence, often settling on the comfiest spot in the room as if it were their throne. They thrive on gentle affection and the admiration of their family, expecting your home to revolve around their needs. With their charming gaze and fluffy coat, it’s easy to see why they still believe they were born to reign supreme.
3. Saluki
Known as one of the oldest dog breeds in history, the Saluki was treasured by ancient Egyptian royalty. Revered for their elegance and incredible speed, these dogs were often depicted in artwork and sometimes buried alongside their noble owners. Today, they retain that same graceful demeanor, gliding across the ground as if every step is a performance. Calm and affectionate, they prefer quiet admiration over chaos, choosing a soft spot near you while surveying their surroundings like royalty. Owning a Saluki feels like sharing your home with a living piece of history that still believes it belongs to kings.
4. Akita
In feudal Japan, Akitas were symbols of loyalty and protection, often gifted to members of the nobility as a sign of honor. These large, powerful dogs were considered family guardians, devoted and fearless. Modern Akitas carry the same quiet dignity, staying close to loved ones while watching over the home like trusted royal guards. Their calm strength and unwavering devotion make them seem like old souls with noble bloodlines. When an Akita sits beside you, it feels as though a steadfast protector from an ancient palace has pledged to keep watch over your heart and home forever.
5. Papillon
Papillons, named for their butterfly-shaped ears, were once favored by French aristocrats, appearing in lavish court paintings and enjoying life in royal salons. Small yet spirited, they were adored for their charm, intelligence, and ability to entertain guests with their playful antics. Today, Papillons carry the same confident energy, prancing about the house with a sparkle in their eyes, certain that all attention belongs to them. They love companionship, thrive on praise, and settle comfortably into laps like they know they are being adored. Living with a Papillon feels like sharing your space with a miniature royal performer.
6. Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Named after King Charles II, these spaniels were bred to warm the laps of English royalty and were often seen in grand courts and lavish chambers. Their soft, silky coats and sweet temperaments made them perfect companions for quiet moments of affection. Today, they are just as loving, curling up on plush cushions and gazing at you with soulful eyes that demand kindness and attention. Their affectionate nature makes them feel like gentle royalty, showering you with warmth while expecting nothing less than your devoted companionship in return. Every cuddle feels like an audience with a little monarch.
7. Afghan Hound
Afghan Hounds, with their long, flowing coats and elegant stature, were once prized by nobility in Asia and the Middle East for their hunting skills and beauty. These dogs were a sign of wealth and high status, admired for their unmatched grace. In modern homes, they remain aloof yet captivating, moving with fluid elegance as if they are always on display. Their independence and poise are reminders of their regal past. When an Afghan Hound glances your way, it feels like you’ve earned a brief nod of approval from a noble figure gracing your world with rare, timeless elegance.
8. Lhasa Apso
Originally bred in Tibetan monasteries and palaces, the Lhasa Apso was considered sacred, serving as a trusted watchdog for spiritual leaders and royalty alike. Their keen alertness and confident demeanor made them valued protectors of treasures and sacred grounds. Today, they still carry that strong sense of purpose, standing guard over their family with unwavering devotion. Despite their small size, they exude authority and wisdom, often choosing a vantage point from which they can watch everything. Having a Lhasa Apso around feels like sharing your home with a wise guardian that treats your space as a palace worth protecting.
9. Chow Chow
Chow Chows were beloved by Chinese emperors and kept as palace guards, admired for their lion-like mane and proud stance. These strong, independent dogs were both protectors and status symbols, exuding quiet authority wherever they roamed. In modern times, Chow Chows retain that commanding presence, walking with confidence and choosing their affections carefully. Their aloof nature feels less like shyness and more like royal reserve, granting their trust only to a chosen few. Sharing your life with a Chow Chow feels like living beside a dignified guardian who still imagines they belong within imperial palace walls.
10. Basenji
Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji was favored by African nobles for its intelligence, grace, and hunting prowess. Their quiet elegance and refined demeanor made them unique companions among royalty, admired for their calm presence and loyal hearts. Today, they remain intelligent, agile, and reserved, moving with a quiet confidence that sets them apart from other breeds. Basenjis prefer to observe and think before acting, as if they are above common commotion. Living with one feels like hosting a silent royal guest, whose every step reminds you that true nobility never needs to announce itself loudly.
This story 10 Dog Breeds That Used to Be Royalty and Still Act Like It was first published on Daily FETCH
