In Imperial China, Pekingese dogs — small, fluffy dogs bred to look like mythical lions — could only be owned by the Chinese Imperial Family. The Komondor dog of Hungary is widely known for its locked fur that looks like natural dreadlocks. The Xoloitzcuintli, commonly known as “the hairless dog” is native to Mexico, dating 3000 years back to the Aztec Empire. All around the world, different regions are home to indigenous dogs from that region. About 300-500 dog breeds roam the Earth. Let us cover some unique dog breeds that are native to their respective country.
Siberia
Those fluffy white dogs that look like clouds are called “Samoyeds.” They are indigenous to Siberia and originated with the Samoyede tribes of Siberia. Due to Siberia’s frosty climate, Samoyed dogs have very fluffy, white fur. They are used as sled dogs and for herding reindeer. A Samoyed puppy from a reputable breeder will run you between $2,000-$5,000 on average.
Germany
Besides the German shepherd, Germany is also the origin of the “sausage dog,” or Daschund. This little dog features stout legs and a very long body. Originally, the Daschund was used for hunting badgers, which explains its short height but long, lean body, which is ideal for hunting in the badger holes in the ground. Nowadays, dachshunds are a very popular dog breed internationally.
China
In Ancient China, only the royal family could own a breed of dog known as the “Pekingese.” This dog has very long fur, a puglike face, and was known as the “lion dog.” They were actually bred to look like a mythical Chinese guardian lion. They were even called “sleeve dogs” because they would be held in Chinese royals’ sleeves, due to their small size. Pekingese have very distinct features, which are adorable, but their fur does require regular maintenance and brushing, which may be a hassle.
West Africa/Azawakh region
Your dog can hunt squirrels, but can it hunt gazelles? The Azawakh is a long, lean dog that resembles an Italian Greyhound. The Azawakh is native to the Azawakh region in West Africa. They are used by nomadic tribes to hunt gazelle and to be guard dogs. They actually hunt in packs and are observed to have extensive memory and their own social hierarchies.
Tibet
On the topic of dogs with unique abilities, the Tibetan mastiff, hailing from the Himalayan region of Tibetan, is a very large dog breed with shaggy, abundant fur. They are used to guard Buddhist monasteries in Tibet, and were believed to contain the souls of monks or nuns who did not reach Buddhist heaven. They also work as guardians for homes and livestocks, such as sheep. Overall, the Tibetan mastiff is a loyal protector.
Big or small, fluffy or hairless, friendly or protective, dogs all over the world have accompanied man throughout their life. The hundreds of distinct and beautiful breeds of dogs worldwide reflect their respective regions’ ways of life, religion and climates.
