20 Most Ancient Dog Breeds

While many dog breeds are now extinct, today's domesticated pet dogs have a surprisingly direct connection to those ancient breeds.

Scientists have now established that dogs are the most ancient domestic animals (1), and all American dogs originated in the Old World (2).

Modern dog breeds share the ancestry of ancient dog breeds predominantly from Europe (3, 4, 5).

Other than Europe, further ancient mitochondrial DNA tests also point to the Middle East (6), Central Asia (7), and East Asia (8, 9) as the main centers of dog domestication, going as far back as the Upper Paleolithic period 14,700 years ago.

Defining an Ancient Dog Breed

The most popular dog breeds we have today are creations of humans through breeding (10, 11).

Today, many use different terminology to define these ancient dog breeds: ancient, extinct, primitive, or simply oldest dog breeds.

However, they all mean different things.

Science is hard at work to discover and define ancient dogs, and even as recently as this year, one of the rarest dog breeds has been found in New Guinea.

But let's first define the three most commonly confused terms for “oldest dogs” – extinct, primitive, and ancient dog breeds.

Extinct Dog Breeds

These are canines that, by definition, do not live among us anymore, even though some online sources incorrectly name existing breeds.

Extinct dog breeds like these do not necessarily mean they are “ancient,” however, because some breeds may have been created in the previous centuries and then died off.

Here are the four most known extinct dog breeds:

• The Kuri (Wikipedia)
• The Chiribaya Dog (Wikipedia)
• The Molosser (Wikipedia)
• The Hare Indian Dog (Wikipedia)

Primitive Dog Breeds

This category of dogs is most closely related to the term ancient dog breeds or oldest dogs.

Primitive dog breeds are best described as aboriginals that historically lived in a specific world area, were never affected by interbreeding, and rarely crossed paths with other dogs.

Some of these breeds may have been extinct, while others still live among us. In fact, there's even a whole website dedicated to primitive dog breeds called Primitive and Aboriginal Dogs Society.

A few true primitive dog breeds (wild dogs) include:

• The Australian Dingo (Wikipedia)
• The Carolina Dog (Wikipedia)

Ancient Dog Breeds

The ancient dogs (or the oldest dog breeds) are the ones we will cover in this list below.

These dogs have the longest living history on the planet in their “original form” thus, many are closely related to wolves and even bears.

There's a lot of research investigating the history of dogs, and many scientific papers mention ancient breeds (like this Nature article and this Science article).

However, to this day, scientists still do not agree on many ancient dogs and which ones deserve to carry this classification (12, 13).

Some canine researchers mention only seven breeds, while others reach 20. As such, we'll mention all of them and let you decide.

Here are twenty known most ancient dog breeds we have on the planet today.

20 Most Ancient Dog Breeds

Large Ancient Dog Breeds

1. Akita

Originally a hunting dog from Japan, the Akita is built for running down the game in snow and rugged terrain in the mountains of Japan.

With lots of energy and high endurance, Akita’s are great for the active, outdoors person.

Dogs in this breed are healthy and loyal. They make excellent guard dogs. Courageous and dignified, these canines are popular in the show ring.

This double-coated breed cannot tolerate warmer temperatures. They also shed quite a bit.

A temperamental and shy breed, they need to be socialized properly to avoid becoming aggressive. This pooch will need training to curb nuisance barking.

2. Mastiff

These gentle giants are far removed from their ancestor, the molasser. Known in Asia as far back as 5,000 years ago, molossers are ancient dogs of war.

Mastiffs are great in families with kids and other pets.

They are willing to please and take well to training. They have short hair that sheds very little. Courageous and territorial, these canines make great guard dogs.

A dog in this breed will weigh well over 100 pounds, so training needs to start in puppyhood before they are too big to handle.

While the wariness of strangers makes them great guard dogs, they need to be socialized properly to avoid aggression.

3. Afghan Hound

These dogs were originally from Afghanistan and known as the “Tazi.” One theory states that these ancient dog breeds originated in the Persian Empire before being brought to Afghanistan.

While these fur babies may look a little prissy, they actually do great in all types of weather and conditions.

They were bred for hunting in harsh conditions, which is great for an active, outdoors family.

Their long silky hair requires some grooming to remain clean and mat-free, but they can be kept clipped short.

Independent and a little stubborn, they can be hard to train despite their high intelligence.

4. Alaskan Malamute

These dogs hail from the Inuit Mahlemuts Tribe.

One of the oldest, largest arctic breeds, these canine ancestors crossed the Bering Land Bridge from Siberia to Alaska. Pooches in this breed are strong.

They can pull sleds, pack supplies, and cart freight.

They are happiest with a busy, outdoors family that will have time to teach and train it to be useful.

Friendly and affectionate, these dogs do great with kids.

This breed usually does not like other animals. Double-coated, these fur babies do not do well in hot temperatures.

Malamutes need socialization training to keep from becoming fearful and aggressive. These pups do love to dig, so be prepared!

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Medium Ancient Dog Breeds

5. Saluki

Deriving from Sumeria, carvings from 5,000 to 6,000 BCE depict the Saluki. Once known as the “Persian Greyhound,” these sighthounds were also known in ancient Egypt.

They certainly fit the qualifications for one of the most ancient dog breeds.

While these canines may appear delicate and fragile, they are actually strong and enduring.

This makes them a great companion for those who love to hike and spend time in nature.

Very energetic and active, these dogs do not do well in apartments. They need a lot of exercise.

Like other sighthounds, they need a tall, sturdy fence.

Suspicious of strangers, they need socialization training to avoid becoming aggressive.

6. Chow Chow

This dog has a British name, but its origins are in ancient China and Mongolia.

At one time, they were a delicacy, and they used their fur for coats.

Independent and serious, these pups do just fine on their own.

They don’t need, nor do they want, a lot of affection and attention. Not very energetic, Chow Chows don’t need a lot of exercise.

These canines are aloof. They do not like kids, strangers, or other pets.

Stubborn and not very intelligent, they are hard to train.

Chow Chows are known to be aggressive and should only live in homes that match their characteristics.

7. Siberian Husky

Chukchi People in Siberia were the first to have these dogs as pets.

Ancient Arctic hunters, these double-coated beauties are only suited for cold climates.

A friendly, affectionate breed, the Husky does well with kids and other pets.

A traditional working dog, this fur baby is ready to learn tricks, perform tasks, and play sports.

Dogs in this breed are escape artists.

They need a strong, secure enclosure. Like other popular breeds, popularity has led to unsafe breeding practices.

Make sure your new furry family member comes from a reputable breeder.

8. Samoyed

These ancient dog breeds come from Siberia.

Named for a nomadic tribe of people, the Samoyed has many characteristics of that tribe.

Given a chance, these dogs will roam for miles.

These beautiful pups are friendly and loyal.

Dogs of this breed love kids, neighbors, and other animals.

Energetic and playful, they make a great dog for a large family.

A true dog, this dynamite love to chase, bark, dig, and chew.

They must stay busy to keep these habits from becoming too destructive and out of control.

Made for the cold, these furry animals can get sick in warm, humid climates.

9. Tibetan Terrier

Unlike most ancient dog breeds, this canine was not bred as a hunting dog.

It was created around 2,000 years ago to be a companion animal.

Sensitive and clever, the Tibetan Terrier loves to amuse and entertain.

These pooches are affectionate and playful, making them great with kids.

Like most lap dogs, they don’t often stray, preferring to stay close to their owners.

The long hair on these creatures needs regular brushing to keep from becoming matted. They also shed quite a bit.

Intelligent and easily bored, they need to learn and play with things to keep themselves from becoming destructive.

RELATED: 30 Healthiest Dog Breeds That Live the Longest

10. Basenji

Hailing from Africa, the Basenji is one of the most ancient of all dog breeds.

While the age of the Basenji is unknown, it is documented that they were given as a present to a Pharaoh in ancient Egypt.

The givers originated from the Congo Basin.

A barkless dog that sheds little, this breed is easy to own in many ways.

They are great for busy families as they do well with alone time.

They are adaptable, making them great for apartment living.

The independence of these canines has benefits but also drawbacks.

They are hard to train, preferring to do things their own way.

They love to chase things and follow their nose, so they need a sturdy fence and leash.

11. Shiba-Inu

 

This breed from Japan found its way into America about 60 years ago, but their ancestors were arguably the most ancient Japanese breed.

Another independent breed, the Shiba-Inu, does well with alone time.

While they have energy, they are not as hyper and need exercise as other hunting breeds. They have short, easy-to-care-for coats.

Shiba-Inus love to use their mouths to play.

They will need training not to bite. These pups need socialization training and obedience classes starting from a young age.

They do not do well with kids. An experienced trainer is needed here.

12. Canaan Dog

Coming from ancient Israel, the Canaan is believed to be the dog that the Hebrews used in biblical times to guard camps and herd livestock.

If that doesn't qualify them for my most ancient dog breeds list, I don't know what would!

These healthy fur babies are easy to groom and shed very little. Easy to train and intelligent, they enjoy “working.”

They don’t tend to wander, preferring to stay around the house.

Territorial and protective Canaan Dogs do not like kids, strangers, or other animals.

They will need socialization training starting from puppyhood.

Instead of repetitive play, they like to keep things new and interesting.

13. Shar-pei

The Shar-pei is believed to originate in ancient China during the Han Dynasty.

Statues from this era depict the breed.

Calm dogs, dogs in this breed, do not need much exercise and aren’t overly hyper.

They don’t mind being alone. These canines also shed very little and are easy to keep clean and groomed.

Stand-offish and independent, these pooches are not very playful or affectionate.

They generally do not like kids or people they don’t know.

They are territorial, so they don’t like other dogs either.

14. Xoloitzcuintli

Mexico/Central American Native Tribes are suspected to be the first to have these ancient dog breeds as pets.

They are one of the world’s oldest and rarest breeds. Just call this dog Xolo (Sho-Lo) for short.

Also known as the “Mexican Hairless,” this breed is said to be hypoallergenic.

This pet comes in three sizes, so you can get the one that best fits your living situation.

Wary of strangers, these dogs make great watchdogs.

A little high-strung, these pups do not do well around children and other animals.

Often missing teeth, these dogs often have a gap-toothed smile.

These pets can become aggressive and destructive if left alone too much.

15. Sloughi

This sighthound coined the “Arabian Greyhound,” is one of the ancient dog breeds used for hunting.

They date back to at least the 800 millennium BCE. They were first seen in Northern Africa.

This dog is great for the athletic or someone looking for a competition dog.

The breed sports endurance, agility, and speed.

These pups would love to run obstacle courses every day, and they would excel.

Due to their energy levels and ability, they need a large yard with a high fence.

Sloughis are independent dogs that usually do not like kids and other animals.

They retain a prey drive, so they cannot leave the house un-leashed.

Small Ancient Dog Breeds

16. Pug

Did you know this popular breed hails from Tibet?

Like some ancient breeds, the Pug’s origins are shrouded in mystery.

We know they were companion dogs in Buddhist monasteries as far back as 400 BCE.

These outgoing dogs are cheerful and curious.

They are known to be even-tempered, which makes them predictable and trainable.

Pug owners say these clowns bring mirth and entertainment into any situation.

They are lovable with everyone.

The facial structures of these dogs make them snort and snore most of the time.

Also, it would help if you took care to keep them from overheating or becoming too cold.

It would help if you took care with your diet, as these little pups can really pack on the pounds.

17. Lhasa Apso

Surprisingly another of the ancient dog breeds that hail from the monasteries of Tibet, the Lhasa Apso, was a watchdog for palaces and monasteries.

These little dogs have a lot going for them. For starters, they are great for apartment living.

Friendly and affectionate, they do great in houses with kids and, usually, other pets.

These pets also do well with alone time, not developing unwanted behaviors.

Like other watchdogs, dogs in this breed are wary and mistrustful of strangers.

This can lead to aggression if not socialized properly.

Like the watchdogs they are, they love to set the alarm – bark. Their long coats need quite a bit of care and grooming.

18. Pekingese

This ancient breed was considered sacred in China when they first arrived on the scene.

Only royals could own them. What was the punishment for stealing one? Death!

Without much energy, these fur babies are fine with just a little indoor playtime.

These tiny dogs are easy to handle and good for first-time dog owners. They do well with apartment life.

The ancient breeding of these canines as royal sacred animals led to them having a similar attitude.

They do not like kids, strangers, or other pets.

Pekingese are stubborn and hard to train. They are also hard to groom and do poorly in hot weather.

19. Italian Greyhound

These tiny sighthounds have been observed in the art of the Mediterranean Basin from around 2,000 years ago.

Their origins trace back to Turkey and Greece.

Playful and affectionate, Italian Greyhounds make great family pets.

They do well in houses with small yards and apartments.

Their short hair makes them quick to bathe and easy to groom.

Like many small dogs, they do not do well in temperature extremes – being healthiest in moderate climates.

Although they are now companion dogs, they still will bolt out the door like any sighthound.

You must always secure these ancient dog breeds.

20. Shih Tzu

Bones found in China prove that this breed existed as early as 8,000 BCE.

It is believed that this dog is another of the ancient dog breeds that hailed from Tibetan Monasteries.

As far as we know, the Shih Tzu has always been a house pet, and they excel.

They are friendly and entertaining.

They are great for apartments and tolerate alone time better than some other lap dog breeds.

Because of facial structure, these fur babies need regular teeth brushing.

Their hair can be clipped short, but otherwise, they need almost daily brushing.

These ancient dogs do retain some prey drive and will bolt after things to chase.

Honorable Mentions

While the above 20 dogs are the oldest breeds, other breeds are significantly older than most breeds you come across.

However, most of them aren't even close to as old as the other breeds on our list.

Finnish Spitz

The Finnish Spitz was bred to hunt game, from as small as rodents to bears.

The Finno-Ugrian tribes from the most northern areas of modern-day Finland bred them using the Spitz-type dogs from Russia.

Greenland Dog

The Greenland dog or Greenland sled dog earns an honorable mention on our list.

These sled dogs likely arrived in Greenland around 2,500 B.C.E. to 800 B.C.E.

They came with the Paleo-Eskimo people who brought them.

Later on in their history, the Vikings learned about the dogs.

From there, they were commonly used as sled dogs, including for whalers, fur traders, and explorers.

Japanese Chin

The Japanese Chin likely came from China.

Experts believe that Korean rulers gave the dog breed to Japanese royalty as a gift in 732 C.E.

Norwegian Elkhound

The Norwegian Elkhound still looks very similar to its wolf ancestors.

The breed was traditionally a guard dog, herd dog, and hunter.

Based on archaeological findings, the breed was around as long as 5,000 B.C.E.

Tibetan Spaniel

This breed is a descendant of the Gobi Desert Kitchen Midden Dog, an ancestor of the Japanese Chin.

This breed originally served as a monastery dog in the Himalayan mountains and likely dates back more than 2,500 years.

Common Questions about the Oldest Dog Breeds

From sled dogs to work dogs to guard dogs, we've already discussed the oldest dog breeds humans have interacted with.

But you may still have questions about these and other dogs our ancestors domesticated.

The following should answer those questions and give you a better idea of how some modern breeds were bred from these oldest dog breed types.

What Was the First Breed of Dog?

There is some debate about which is the absolute oldest dog breed.

It is widespread to believe that the Akita Inu is the oldest.

However, some researchers feel that the Basenji may have beaten it.

Experts are not positive because our ancestors' records of domestic dogs aren't great.

The evidence favoring the Basenji being the first breed comes from prehistoric cave paintings.

Some of these are from 6,000 B.C.E.

However, archaeological dating shows this is not old enough to be the first.

That is still much more “modern” than the oldest Akita Inu remains.

Those are from the Kamikuroiwa Rock Shelter site.

When Did Humans First Domesticate Dogs or Wolves?

Humans domesticated dogs thousands of years ago.

Some evidence indicates that humans were at least semi-domesticated dogs back when we were hunter-gatherers.

The earliest undisputed remains of a dog buried with a human being are from 14,700 years ago.

There are disputed remains from 36,000 years ago.

Of course, this does not necessarily mean they were domesticated.

It simply shows that dogs likely had a close relationship with humans at the time.

Experts believe that wolves originally split into two Eurasian wolf breeds, divided by east and west.

Humans independently domesticated each probably about 6,400 to 14,000 years ago.

Since then, both of those originally domesticated wolf breeds have gone extinct.

What Are the Five Original Dog Breeds?

It's hard for experts to pinpoint which were the first domesticated dog breeds.

That being said, many agree that the Samoyed, Peruvian Inca Orchid, Chinese Shar-Pei, New Guinea Singing Dog, and Afghan Hound were the earliest.

What Is the Oldest Breed of Dog to Live?

Instead of wondering which breeds have been working dogs for the longest, you want to know which live the oldest. The answer is different.

The oldest recorded dog was Bluey. This Australian cattle dog lived for 29 years, dying just before 1939.

This was an extreme case, and it is much more common for adult dogs of this breed to live past 16 years, a far cry from Bluey's 29.

What Is the Ancient Dog Called?

You will get several different answers if you ask about ancient dogs without any context. For example, this may refer to the dogs of Ancient Egypt.

These were called the Pharaoh Hound. The American Kennel Club acknowledges this breed as one of the first to be domesticated.

What Is the Purest Dog Breed?

When most people talk about purity and dogs, they refer to a specific canine. The term is usually purebred, meaning they come from a single breed.

You are most likely to hear the term at dog shows.

But if you talk about the purest dog breed as a whole, this refers to which breeds have had the least intermixing with others over the years.

The answer is usually one of the oldest breeds, as they have been around for so long.

If one of these breeds did mix with another, it likely formed two distinct breeds, with the original remaining.

With that in mind, some of the purest dog breeds are Afghan Hounds, Alaskan Malamutes, Basenjis, and Chow Chows.

What Is the Smartest Dog Breed?

There are many dog breeds known for being smart. Some of these include border collies, golden retrievers, Doberman pinschers, Australian cattle dogs, mini schnauzers, and Belgian Turvuren.

Which Dog Can Kill a Lion?

Lions are wild animals known for their ferocity and danger.

But some dog breeds can kill them, despite this seeming like something their ancestors should have done, which is not what you expect from modern dogs.

Some breeds that can kill lions include wolf dogs, Tibetan mastiffs, Neapolitan mastiffs, Rottweilers, Dogo Argentinos, Fila Brasileiros, Bloodhounds, Boerboel dogs, and Rhodesian Ridgebacks.

What Is the Most Dangerous Dog in the World?

American Pit Bull Terriers are considered the most dangerous dogs in the world. Others include Rottweilers, German Shepherds, American Bulldogs, Bullmastiffs, and Siberian Huskies.

Most Ancient Dog Breeds: Key Takeaways

• Some breeds on the list were produced as companion animals, but most were created as working dogs for duties including guarding, hunting, and pulling sleds.
• The Akita, a stunning dog type that originated in Japan, is typically thought to be the oldest dog breed that still exists today.
• The oldest known relationship between animals and people was around 30,000 years ago.

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