5 Oldest Dog Breeds That Still Exist Today: Dogs have been humanity’s faithful companions for thousands of years, evolving alongside us from wild wolves into the diverse breeds we know today. Some breeds, however, trace their roots back to ancient times, carrying the legacy of early civilizations in their bones and behaviors. These living relics offer a glimpse into the past, blending history with the wag of a tail.
Here are five of the oldest dog breeds that still thrive today, each with a story as timeless as their lineage.
Table of Contents
Saluki
The Saluki, often called the “Royal Dog of Egypt,” is one of the most ancient breeds, with origins dating back to at least 3,000 BCE in the Middle East. Weighing 40-65 pounds, these slender, elegant dogs were bred by nomadic tribes for hunting gazelles and hares across vast deserts. Their sleek, feathered or smooth coats—ranging from white to red—helped them withstand harsh sun and sand.
Also Read: How to Groom a Golden Retriever: A Step-by-Step Guide to Keeping Your Pup Perfect
Depicted in ancient Egyptian art and revered by pharaohs, Salukis were so treasured that they were often mummified alongside their owners. Today, their grace and speed still captivate, a living link to a time when they raced across the cradle of civilization.
Basenji
The Basenji, weighing 22-24 pounds, hails from Central Africa, with evidence of its existence stretching back to 3,000 BCE. Known as the “barkless dog” for its unique yodel-like vocalization, this compact, curly-tailed breed was prized by ancient tribes for hunting small game in dense jungles. Their short, sleek coats—often red, black, or brindle—suited the hot climate, while their agility and silence made them stealthy trackers.
Basenjis appear in Egyptian tomb carvings, and their DNA suggests they’re among the least altered from their wolf ancestors. Today, their independent spirit and cat-like grooming habits keep their ancient charm alive.
Afghan Hound
Originating around 2,000 BCE in the rugged mountains of Afghanistan, the Afghan Hound weighs 50-60 pounds and boasts a flowing, silky coat that protected it from cold altitudes. Bred by nomadic peoples to chase down game like leopards and deer, this breed’s long legs and keen eyesight made it a master of the hunt across rocky terrain.
Ancient Persian texts and artworks celebrate its regal beauty, with coats in colors from cream to black. Afghans remain aloof yet loyal, their striking appearance and endurance a testament to a heritage forged in the wild highlands of antiquity.
Akita
The Akita, a sturdy breed weighing 70-130 pounds, traces its roots to Japan around 1,000 BCE. Bred in the snowy mountains of Honshu for hunting boar, bear, and deer, Akitas were also guardians of nobility, revered as symbols of strength and loyalty.
Their thick, double coats—white, brindle, or red—shielded them from harsh winters, while their powerful build and fearless nature made them formidable. Ancient Japanese folklore honors their devotion, and one Akita, Hachiko, became a national icon for waiting daily for his deceased owner. Today, Akitas carry that same dignified spirit, a bridge to Japan’s storied past.
Greyhound
The Greyhound, weighing 60-70 pounds, dates back to at least 2,500 BCE, with origins tied to ancient Egypt and the Middle East. These sleek, aerodynamic dogs were bred for speed, chasing hares and antelope across open plains.
Also Read: 8 Best Hunting Dog Breeds for People Who Love the Outdoors
Their short, smooth coats—ranging from black to fawn—kept them cool in desert heat, and their streamlined bodies earned them a place in pharaohs’ courts, etched into tomb walls and celebrated in poetry. Known as the fastest breed, Greyhounds later spread to Europe, where they became racing stars. Today, their quiet grace and lightning speed echo a history that spans millennia.
Why These Breeds Endure
These breeds aren’t just survivors—they’re time capsules, carrying traits honed by ancient peoples for survival, sport, and companionship. From the Saluki’s desert sprints to the Akita’s mountain vigils, each reflects the needs and cultures of its origins. Modern science, like DNA studies, confirms their deep roots, showing how little some have changed from their wild forebears. Whether you’re drawn to their history or their unique qualities, these ancient dogs prove that the bond between humans and canines is as old as it is unbreakable—still thriving, one paw print at a time.
