Dogs have been our best friends for centuries, and throughout history, they have shared a special bond with royalty, nobility, and powerful rulers across the globe. Beyond being loyal companions, many dog breeds became symbols of prestige, wealth, protection, and royal identity. Kings, queens, emperors, and aristocrats often chose certain breeds for their beauty, intelligence, hunting skills, or calm temperament. Over time, these dogs became closely linked with royal courts and appeared in paintings, sculptures, literature, and historical records. Some were even treated with the same respect as important members of royal households. Many of these breeds remain popular today and have become household names around the world because of their historical connections and elegant appearance. Here are five dog breeds that have a royal connection.
Saluki
The Saluki is considered one of the oldest dog breeds in the world and has often been associated with Egyptian royalty. Images of dogs resembling Salukis appear in Egyptian tombs and carvings dating back thousands of years. Egyptian nobles and pharaohs highly valued them for their speed, hunting ability, and graceful appearance. Some dogs were even mummified alongside their owners.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
The Pembroke Welsh Corgi became world-famous because of its close connection with Queen Elizabeth II. The future queen received her first corgi, Susan, as an 18th birthday gift in 1944. Susan became the foundation of many royal corgis owned by the queen throughout her life. Queen Elizabeth II was often photographed with her dogs at Buckingham Palace and other events.
Greyhound
The Greyhound is another ancient breed closely connected with royalty and nobility. Historical evidence suggests Greyhounds existed in ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, where they were admired for their speed and elegance. In medieval Europe, ownership of Greyhounds was often restricted to nobles and royal families. They were highly valued hunting dogs and symbols of high social status. Historical stories also mention famous rulers, including Alexander the Great, owning Greyhound-type dogs.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
The Cavalier King Charles Spaniel shares a deep historical connection with England’s Stuart kings, especially King Charles I and King Charles II. These small spaniels were beloved companions in royal courts during the 17th century and often appeared in portraits painted by famous artists such as Anthony van Dyck. King Charles II became especially associated with the breed because he took his dogs almost everywhere, as famous stories state. Their gentle and affectionate nature made them popular among aristocrats and royal families.
Shih Tzu
The Shih Tzu has a long royal history connected with Chinese emperors and imperial palaces. The breed became especially popular during the Ming and Qing dynasties, where it was carefully bred within palace walls. Chinese royals admired the Shih Tzu for its beautiful coat, small size, and calm personality. Dowager Empress Cixi was particularly known for her love of the breed and maintained royal kennels for them. Because the dogs resembled traditional Chinese lion symbols connected with Buddhism, they were considered highly meaningful and prestigious in imperial China.
