This Is What Popular Dog Breeds Looked Like 100 Years Ago
Many dog breeds are a product of purposeful crossbreeding that started over 100 years ago. The breeds we know today have evolved over the years to become the dogs we recognize (and the dogs recognized by the American Kennel Club).
Unfortunately, purebred dogs come with a lot of health issues due to inbreeding. Usually, mixed-breed dogs are healthier than purebred dogs. Sometimes people forget that pure breeds aren't the only option when it comes to adopting a new pet. Keep reading to see what pure breed dogs looked like 100 years ago, and what they look like today.
Dachshunds Then
Source: Caen Elegans
Dogs with long backs and short legs have been around for a long time. Dogs resembling Dachshunds are depicted among Ancient Egyptian hieroglyphics. Dachshunds may be able to trace their ancestry back to ancient China and South America. There have even been mummified Dachshunds found in ancient Egyptian tombs.
Some people think that Dachshunds are descended from hounds and terriers, and others think that they have stronger ties to Pointers and Pinschers.
Dachshunds Now
Source: Igor Bredikhin
Modern Dachshunds look pretty similar to their ancient counterparts. They are low to the ground with short legs, a short-haired coat, and long, silky ears. These dogs were bred to hunt small animals such as badgers, rabbits, and hares in dense, foliage-rich environments.
Because of inbreeding, sometimes modern Dachshunds' low bellies restrict their movement. The modern Dachshund is vulnerable to such maladies as intervertebral disc disease and paralysis. Be very careful not to overfeed a Dachshund.
Dalmatians Then
These black and white spotted dogs were made famous by the Disney movie 101 Dalmatians, however, the breed has been around since way before that movie came out. Dalmatians were bred to run for long distances alongside carriages. This was intended to help ward off highwaymen while adding a touch of flair to aristocrats' vehicles. Dalmatians were considered very fashionable.
Who could blame people for admiring this dog's stunning spotted coat? Dalmatians have long legs which enable them to run long distances.
Dalmatians Now
Dalmatians have changed a bit in recent years, but they still have their signature spots. There are actually two distinct types of dalmatians, those with black spots and brown eyes, and those with brown spots and blue eyes.
These dogs are very intelligent and highly energetic as they were a century ago. Sadly, Dalmatians are now prone to deafness. This is a result of an inherited polygenic trait. Deaf Dalmatians can still live very full, happy lives.
Chow Chows Then
Chow Chows have existed for a very long time. Some experts consider them to be one of the oldest dog breeds in the world. According to recent DNA analysis, Chow Chows are actually the closest living relatives to wild wolves.
Chow Chows come from Asia and were used by Mongolian and Chinese populations as attack dogs, guard dogs, hunting dogs, and even as sources of food. You can see statues of Chow Chows outside of many ancient Chinese temples.
Chow Chows Now
Modern Chow Chows loo remarkable similar to big, fluffy lions. These dogs have dense coats and strong, powerful legs. You might have noticed that the Chow Chow in this photo has a bit of a shorter snout than the ancient Chow Chow we saw previously.
Medically, Chow Chows are prone to hip dysplasia, autoimmune disease, melanoma, and eye problems such as entropion and glaucoma. All of these issues are inherited genetic traits caused by inbreeding.
Pugs Then
Source: Wilhelmina Swainston-Goodger
Pugs are another breed that comes to us from ancient China. Back in the day, Pugs were owned by Chinese royalty. They were also treated like royalty. They had their own quarters with guards stationed outside. The popularity of Pugs took off when this breed made its way to Europe.
It was said that Italian carriage drivers would dress their Pugs up in the same clothes as themselves and ride alongside them through the streets of Italy.
Pugs Now
Even though Pugs originally came from China, once they arrived in Europe, they were crossbred with smaller terriers. That's what gives them their signature brachycephalic (i.e., short and wide) snout. That new short snout has caused a lot of problems for the breed.
The snout's shape, for example, is responsible for a number of medical conditions to which the Pug is vulnerable, such as breathing difficulties, low oxygen intake, high blood pressure, heart disease, an inability to regulate body heat, and jaw and tooth problems.
Basset Hounds Then
Source: Mary Evans Picture Library/Thomas Fall
Scent hunting goes back to the time of ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome and there is no better scent hunting dog than the Basset Hound. This dog's sixth-century ancestor is said to have belonged to St. Hubert of Belgium. Later on, Jacques du Fouilloux referred to the progeny of St. Hubert as the "basset" dog.
These dogs are short and low to the ground to help them hunt small animals like fox and rabbit.
Basset Hounds Now
Source: Cali1008 - Own work, Public Domain
If it's even possible, Basset Hounds today seem to be even shorter and lower to the ground than they used to be. Modern Basset Hounds also have excess skin, a curved back, and droopier eyes. Today, they're more likely to be family pets than hunting dogs.
Their back structure makes them vulnerable to vertebral medical problems, and their eye shape is associated with problems like entropion and ectropion (i.e., inward and outward facing eyelids, respectively).
Beagles Then
The earliest dogs that were referred to as Beagles were small enough to fit in the palm of your hand! The teeny tiny pups stood at just eight inches tall, but as they increased in popularity, so did their size. There is little information on Beagles' origin, but it is believed they were used for hunting in Greece as early as the 5th century BCE. Eighth-century Beagles were known as scent hounds and were heavily used for hunting, despite being slow runners. It is said that Beagles were sometimes bred with Greyhounds in the hopes of increasing their speed and agility.
Beagles Now
As Beagles have been bred with good and bad practices over the last 100 years and more, the breed has seen significant changes in their appearance and personalities. Today, Beagles are far larger than the pocket-sized canines they used to be. As demand grew for strong hunting dogs, Beagles were bred with other breeds largest in size and agiler in nature. Their faces are wider set and they can grow to be up to 30 pounds. As far as their demeanor goes, Beagles are inquisitive, determined and highly motivated by food—aren't we all?!
Boxers Then
Source: Caen Elegans
The boxer is derived from the German Bullenbeisser and the English bulldog breeds. It was initially used as a hunting dog whose unique skill was to capture prey and hold it until it is retrieved by the hunter.
The name "Boxer" allegedly derives from the dog's tendency to stand on its hind legs and play (or "box") with its front paws. During WWI, the Boxer was a trusted companion that was good for guarding, attacking, and carrying supplies. However, it wasn't until after WWII that the Boxer became a household pet after returning soldiers brought it back with them from the front.
Boxers Now
Source: Mood210 - Own work
Note the differences between the Boxer of bygone days and the modern version, which sports a larger, more contracted snout that points slightly upward and a longer, upward-pointing tail. Though mostly used as pets and show dogs, today's Boxers are still relied upon as guard dogs and for carrying weight.
On the downside, the Boxer's modern incarnation is prone to a host of medical problems, chief among them being cancer. In fact, the Boxer is one of the most cancer-prone breeds. Another serious issue is the Boxer's diminished capacity to cool down when heated, which leads to behavioral difficulties.
Bull Terriers Then
Source: Caen Elegans
The Bull Terrier had its rise in the early nineteenth-century when the Old English Bulldog was crossed with the Old English Terrier. The breeding was motivated by the desire to create a more agile fighting dog possessing the strength and tenacity of the Bulldog and the speed agility of the Terrier.
Over the years, the Bull Terrier was repeatedly crossed and recrossed with such breeds as the Dalmatian, the Whippet, and the Staffordshire Bull Terrier. Although generally friendly and well-behaved around children and other dogs, the Bull Terrier has been known to do quite well as a fighter when entered in dog fighting competitions.
Bull Terriers Now
The most obvious modification that the modern Bull Terrier exhibits in comparison to its ancestors is the lack of a "stop" in its nose, giving the nose its famous "egg shape." Other modifications include a wider, lower-hanging belly and an increased number of teeth.
As with many of the breeds on our list, the modern Bull Terrier is prone to a number of medical conditions that its nineteenth-century precursors were not, namely: an increased susceptibility to deafness among white Bull Terriers, skin vulnerabilities to insect bites and rashes, and a neurological tendency to compulsively chase its own tail. You'll be astonished when you see what Shar Peis used to look like.
English Bulldogs Then
The Bulldog, as its name suggests, was originally bred for bull-baiting, a gruesome sport that involved tying up a bull and seeing which dog was successful at latching onto the bull's snout and forcing it to the ground.
For this reason, the Bulldog was bred to exhibit a large head with a powerful jaw, and stout, muscular limbs. When bull-baiting on other forms of animal cruelty were outlawed in nineteenth-century England, Bulldogs became household pets. In the United States, however, Bulldogs were still employed by ranchers for the practical purpose of herding and tying up bulls.
English Bulldogs Now
Today's bulldog is known as one of the most disease-prone dogs due to health issues stemming from years of inbreeding. Although it is much more peaceable in its temperament now that it no longer has to bait bulls for a living (which makes it a lovely companion and home protector), its bulbous head, stocky frame, and droopy skin makes it vulnerable to a number of difficulties, including mating difficulty, birthing difficulty, and even difficulty in moving around.
Oddly enough, despite the cruel treatment of Bulldogs in the past, they were much more athletic than they are now. Due to their vulnerability to cancer and heart disease, Bulldogs rarely make it past age seven. Did you know German Shepherds used to be much leaner?
German Shepherds Then
Source: Caen Elegans
The German Shepherd had its rise in nineteenth-century Germany when a conglomerate of actual shepherds intent on breeding the perfect sheep herding dog formed the Phylax Society. Due to squabbles over whether to prioritize beauty as opposed to working ability, the society disbanded.
One ex-member named Max von Stephanitz was adamant in creating the perfect German sheep herding dog, despite the lack of need for them in an increasingly urbanized environment with fewer predators preying on farm animals. After implementing an arduous breeding (or, more specifically, inbreeding) program, Stephanitz's attempts finally yielded Beowulf, the forefather of all modern German Shepherds.
German Shepherds Now
Perhaps due to the lack of a necessity to breed German Shepherds for utility as sheepdogs, the modern version has lost the sleekness and agility of its graceful ancestors.
Albeit still a gorgeous dog, the modern German Shepherd's belly is too distended, its chest is too round, its gait is too clumsy, its back is too sloping, and its size is too big. It is also vulnerable to conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia and has a higher likelihood of developing degenerative myelopathy - an inherited neurological condition associated with a loss of communication between the dog's brain and its hind limbs.
Shar-Peis Then
Source: Katie Finlay
Shar-Peis, like Chow Chows, are one of the oldest breeds of dogs, and like Chow Chows, they too hail from China. Throughout the Han Dynasty and beyond, the image of the Shar Pei, much like Chow Chow's, was used to decorate various buildings and objects.
They were originally bred as hunting companions for hunting wild boars. Their loose skin and prickly fur assisted them in getting out of a boar's grip, and this same trait led to them being used as fighting dogs. The Western version of the Shar Pei, referred to as "meat mouth" by the Chinese, differs from the Chinese version, which the Chinese call "bone mouth."
Shar-Peis Now
Source: Ryan Norrid
As with other dogs on our list, such as the Pug, the English Bulldog, and the Basset Hound, the modern, Western version of the Shar-Pei carries a hefty amount of excess skin as baggage. For some reason, modern breeders just love to heap excess dermatological surface area on dogs.
This obsession leads to the Shar Pei's vulnerability to allergic skin infections and ear infections (due to the excess folding of skin about the ears). Although American Shar Peis descended from the "bone mouth" Chinese variety relatively recently following a 1970s campaign to rescue these dogs from communist China, the unabated American desire for the "meat mouth" has already altered this breed.
St. Bernards Then
Source: Caen Elegans
The St. Bernard breed is derived from the Molosser dogs that were originally brought to the Alps region by the Romans. The modern St. Bernard descends from canine heroes who would lead monks and other passersby through the Great St. Bernard Pass in the Swiss Alps.
One legendary St. Bernard named "Barry" was said to have rescued between 40 and 100 people. Interestingly enough, St. Bernards were not trained by the monks to carry out these heroic feats but learned their trade from older dogs. Unfortunately, an avalanche killed the majority of these working dogs during the nineteenth-century, which permanently altered the breed.
St. Bernards Now
Source: Mary Bloom
Today's St. Bernards are not the same as the legendary Alpine heroes described in books and legends. Following the avalanche, what was left of the original population was crossed with imported Newfoundlands to make the breed what it is today.
These new dogs were incapable of search and rescue operations due to their massive size and heavy coat, which weighed them down greatly. Of course, that didn't stop the Swiss kennel clubs from prizing this massively oversized creation. Today's St. Bernard suffers from a host of ailments stemming from its baggy skin, narrow snout, and heavy coat, including a proneness to overheating and a susceptibility to eye problems and cancer.
Salukis Then
Salukis are a unique breed of dog. Not only are Salukis one of the oldest breeds around, but they were once considered a gift from Allah. You read that right—these large canines were once considered holy.
Salukis are known for their lean build. These pups are as skinny as supermodels, which also means they're fast, fast, fast. Coupled with their speed, Salukis are notoriously hard to train, which means they are not be trusted off their leash! Despite their tendency for not-so-wonderful behavior, these dogs are lovers at heart and are utterly devoted to their owners.
Salukis Now
While Salukis today might not be considered holy gifts, not much else has changed. These pups are still known as being one of the leanest breeds out there. Salukis are still utterly devoted to their owners and are generally very friendly towards adults, kids, and other dogs. They're still slightly hard to train and should be kept on a leash while on walks!
Salukis have experienced the negative side of breeding firsthand, however. Because the Salukis of today have had their skeletal appearance enhanced, the breed also has a higher rate of heart-related health problems.
White Terriers Then
The best way to describe a White Terrier? Self-confidence! This doggo is one breed who isn't lacking in self-esteem, which is why the White Terrier been so popular for the last century and beyond. The most common White Terrier is the West Highland White Terrier. Originating in Scotland, these pups were originally bred for hunting and ratling and even sometimes as search-and-rescue help! Their instinctive nature to capture fast-moving animals meant this breed was on the fastest and most agile 100 years ago. But what about the White Terrier today?
White Terriers Now
White terriers are seldom used for their original purpose of hunting and rattling and are bred to be a domesticated house pet. These pups are always on the lookout for a good time and are professionals when it comes to keeping themselves entertained.
When it comes to breeding, the white terriers of today haven't fared as well as some of the other breeds on our list. These pups used to be highly-functional and very athletic. A century of bad breeding practices has left them seriously affected and no longer able to follow their natural instincts due to intentional growth stunting.
Bearded Collies Then
Bearded Collies were developed in Scotland and were originally intended to herd sheep and livestock in various weather conditions and terrain. Back in the day, these pups were known for their highly-energetic and friendly personalities which made them great additions farms as they could control the livestock without hurting them. On top of having loads of energy, Bearded Collies were very obedient and loveable and were considered all-around great animals. So how has the Bearded Collie changed after 100 years of breeding? Read on to find out.
Bearded Collies Now
One look at this photo of a Bearded Collie from a century ago and it's easy to see how much they have changed over time. Due to a century of questionable breeding, Bearded Collies have taken on a much different appearance. Today, they are shorter and slightly stockier than they used to be. Although they do not experience any severe defects due to breeding, many Bearded Collies experience allergies.
Although they have experienced some of the negative effects of dog breeding, this pup is still known for being one of the friendliest breeds out there. They're easy to train and are endlessly loyal to their owners. You just have to be willing to tolerate lots of shedding!
Airedale Terriers Then
Airedale Terriers are the largest of all of the terrier breeds and are known as the "King of Terriers." Originating in the Aire Valley of Yorkshire, these dogs were bred to catch otters, rats, and other critters in the region between the Aire and the Wharfe Rivers.
Because Airedale Terriers were such ideal working dogs, they were heavily used as help dogs in World War I, delivering messages to British headquarters. On top of being intelligent, outgoing, and confident, Airedale Terriers are also playful and very loyal to their owners.
Airedale Terriers Now
Visually, Airedale Terriers have changed quite a bit. Their faces and bodies are far less angular than they used to be 100 years ago and their fur is longer and coarser. Today, their demeanor is very similar to how it was a century ago. These pups are still known for their intelligent, outgoing, and confident personalities. They thrive when they feel like there is a job to be done—even if that job is something as simple as entertaining their owner! The independent dogs are truly a breed to behold. Smart, obedient, and playlist; they're an all-around great breed.
Shetland Sheep Dogs Then
The Shetland Sheep Dogs, better known as the Sheltie, wasn't recognized by the American Kennel Club until 1911. During that time, these pups were recorded to be on average just seven to 11 pounds with medium-length fur.
Shetland Sheep Dogs originated in the Shetland Islands, off the coast of Scotland. It was here that these canines stood guard for farmers, keeping hungry birds and sheep out of their owner's gardens. Shelties also served as humble and reliable herding dogs. Better yet, these dogs made great family companions.
Shetland Sheep Dogs Now
Modern-day Shetland Sheep Dogs are much larger in size than they were 100 years ago. In fact, Shelties are more than double in size on average! Today, the average Shetland Sheep Dog weighs at least 20 pounds though not much taller in height. One of the most noticeable differences in their fur. In 1911 when they were first recognized by the American Kennel Club, their fur was medium length. Today, however, a Shelties' fur is longer and much more lustrous. This also means they shed much more. As they were 100 years ago, these pups are still known for being alert, friendly, and smart.
Neapolitan Mastiffs Then
Neapolitan Mastiffs originated in southern Italy. This breed's ancestry dates as far back as 3,000 BCE, at the beginning of the Bronze Age. During this time, the Upper and Lower regions of Egypt were unified and mastiff-like pups began to emerge as guard dogs working in Tibet.
From the beginning, these pups were unique in their appearance. Massive in size, Neapolitan Mastiffs boast loose skin and thick facial wrinkles giving them a distinct and sometimes unnerving look. Despite their appearance, however, Neapolitan Mastiffs were one of the most gentle dog breeds 100 years ago. But what about today's Neapolitan Mastiffs?
Neapolitan Mastiffs Now
Today, Neapolitan Mastiffs are still one of the gentlest breeds of dogs. Despite centuries of breeding, these dogs look relatively similar and still have the same signature slow, rolling gait and loveable facial rolls. With time, the Neapolitan Mastiff has gotten larger all around in terms of height and weight. Today, the average Neapolitan Mastiff is two feets to two feet and seven inches tall at the shoulder. As for their mass, the average Neapolitan Mastiff weighs 120 pounds to a massive 200 pounds! Wait until you see which popular dog breed made our list next!
Poodles Then
The origin of the Poodle has been disputed for many years. While some believe that the breed descends from the old French Barbet breed, other believe Poodles hail from Germany and were originally created to be a type of water dog. In any case, these dogs are ranked the second most intelligent breed, just behind the Border Collie. Poodles are very skillful when it comes to a variety of activities such as agility, obedience, tracking, and herding. Despite the Poodle above's posh looks, these dogs were very useful for a variety of different tasks. Some even performed in circus rings back in the day.
Poodles Now
Despite being portrayed as dogs who live lives of glamour and luxury, poodles are anything but divas. Much like their ancestors, this breed will still complete a job when given the task. Sure, Poodles may look primed and primp with their manicured nails and pink bows, but these dogs can still be trained to perform a variety of duties like they were 100 years ago. Today, however, you are far more likely to see Poodles in a variety of sizes as there are Toy, Miniature, and Standard Poodles.
Bedlington Terriers Then
Bedlington Terriers originated in North East England to kill vermin and to be a sidekick for poachers. These beautiful dogs were great options for these duties because they excelled as companions and had excellent hunting instincts. Their keen sense of smell coupled with their willingness to get down and dirty made them a poacher's best friend.
On top of these duties, Bedlington Terriers were often used in dog racing, dog sports and in conformation shows. Another fun fact about these pups is that they were excellent swimmers back in the day too. But what about today?
Bedlington Terriers Now
Bedlington Terriers' appearance has changed a lot over the last century in comparison to other dog breeds. The Bedlington Terriers used to be much larger and stockier, but today, they look closer to a Dandie Dinmont Terrier, Whippet, or Otterhound—three dogs of which Bedlington Terriers are in fact related to!
Bedlington Terriers are known for their lamb-like appearance as well as their entertaining yet opinionated behavior. These dogs are inquisitive, intelligent, alert and still take a cue from their old hunting ways since they are still aggressive towards small animals.
