18 Oldest Dog Breeds in the World

The oldest dog breeds in the world share some physical characteristics as well as personality traits. Self-evidently, they are dogs with strong bodies, well-developed muscles, often compact and resistant and have coats where shades of red, brown and tan predominate.

In terms of character, they are usually intelligent, active and very independent dogs. These breeds show a great aptitude for learning and often prefer to make decisions on their own, having greater autonomy than some other dogs. Additionally, they usually have very sharp senses and remarkable instinctual facility when it comes to hunting or protecting resources within their territory.

Perhaps importantly to you, they can make excellent pets. However, they need a lot of attention and particular effort needs to be made in terms of training and socialization. If these are not carried out, then it can lead to a greater likelihood of behavioral problems down the line.

The Basenji is considered the oldest dog in the world according to a scientific study which compares genomic analysis of 161 current dog breeds^[2]. It is estimated these origins begin on the African continent, where they were used for hunting and tracking prey. Their image was portrayed on some Egyptian tombs and are believed to be represented in hieroglyphs from the time.

The Basenji has gained popularity (or notoriety?) for some particular peculiarities in their nature. For example, this oldest dog breed does not emit the characteristic sound of canine barking, instead producing a high pitched howl which almost resembles a laugh or yodel. This is why they are also among the breeds which bark the least. Additionally, they often groom themselves in a very feline manner and are often not fond of water.

The Chinese Saluki, sometimes known as Shanxi Xigou, is considered the second oldest dog in the world and its history has been traced back to 685 BC during the Tang Dynasty. This dog has particularly unique profile with its slim body and slightly sloped face. It's ancient role was as a hare hunter as well as a protective watch dog.

The Tibetan Mastiff, also known as the Tibetan Bulldog, is considered the progenitor of all breeds of Mastiff dog. Its lineage has recently been shown to have diverted from the grey wolf some 58,000 years ago, more than the other 11 dogs which were used in this particular study^[3]. It is a powerful dog with a muscular build and particularly dense coat, accentuating its already large frame. It was used for looking after flocks of livestock and was the traditional dog to guard Tibetan monasteries.

Siberian huskies accompanied the Chukchi tribe, the group of people who inhabited the cold territory where Siberia is today (which still happens to be pretty cold). In principle, they are used as both working dogs and guard dogs. They grazed, pulled their owner's sleds and protected home territory from invaders.

The inherent strength of the Siberian Husky is explained by its origins. In the extreme conditions of this now Russian territory, only the most resistant and adaptive dogs survived. It was precisely thanks to dedication and skills of these dogs that the indigenous inhabitants of this cold and inhospitable land could survive. This is both in terms of its climate and wild nature.

The Greenland Dog is one of the oldest breeds in the world and it is estimated to have arrived in Greenland with the Paleo-Eskimo peoples. Its closest relative is the Canadian Eskimo Dog which is genetically identical. It was formally used as a hunting and sledding dog.

The Alaskan Malamute is one of the oldest dog breeds and, as is a trend in this list so far, is also well adapted to the cold. Like the Greenland Dog and Siberian Husky, the Alaskan Malamute was used as a sledding and hunting dog. It is a large and robust dog with great physical capacity.

The Shiba Inu ne of the most popular dog breeds these days, most likely due to its absolutely adorable appearance. It has a Japanese origin and possible representations of this breed have been found which date from 500 AD. There are, however, some controversies about its origin as some believe it originates in China, while others attest to it coming from Korea.

The Akita Inu gained much popularity in the last century, but its origins go well back into secular traditional Japanese culture. They are strong and resilient dogs with a great ability to adapt to the cold and have a well-marked instinctive behavior. They were historically employed in the hunting of wild animals, but they also fulfilled guardianship and defense functions in homes.

A distinctive and tender appearance makes the Shar Pei easy to be drawn to. However, these dogs traditionally stood out for their hunting and herding skills. They usually have an equally distinctive character and can be quite independent.

Currently, traces of their existence were discovered on pottery and ceramics from the 3^rd century BC in ancient China. During this time, the Shar Pei was believed to be the faithful companion of farmers who protected their land and livestock from predators and other threats.

The blue tongued Chow Chow is also well known for its distinctive appearance. While their tongue and fluffy coat make them look like a Teddy bear, they are not vulnerable toys. Their origins lay as guard dogs for ancient temples and their demeanour can be fierce when it is protecting their family. They were also keen hunting dogs. Like the Siberian Husky, the Chow Chow's survival is living proof of its resilience against dramatic climates and natural adversaries.

The Eurasier is a dog of German breeding which is much older than was at first believed. It was not until around 1960, however, that its popularity really began. It is an alert dog of balanced character, but has a tendency to be somewhat aloof.

The Samoyed enthralled and created admirers around the world, particularly from the 18^th century. However, its true origins lie in the original Samoyed tribes which inhabited present day Russia and Siberia.

Their appearance and character reveal similar traits to its compatriot dog, the Siberian Husky. They are noticeable, however, for their brilliant and fluffy white coat. They are strong and durable dogs, perfectly adaptable to to cold weather and also can be quite independent. This doesn't mean, however, they aren't incredibly loving and protective dogs over their family. Historically, they were employed to help shepherd, hunt and pull sleds.

Indigenous to Finland, the Finnish Spitz was traditionally used for hunting small animals such as rodents. It is well revered for its hunting skills in its native Finland and is considered the National Dog of this particular country.

Although it bears the name of its neighbour Japan, the Japanese Chin is actually believed to originate in China. It is an independent, intelligent and vert alert dog. Makes a great companion as it once did for many members of Japanese royalty.

Like the Japanese Spaniel, the Tibetan Spaniel is very intelligent despite its size. It was a very popular dog among Tibetan monks who were believed to have used them to spin prayer wheels. Its origin was not known exactly, but their appearance to Chinese guardian lions made them popular and gave them the nickname ‘Little Lions’.

As you may be able to see below, the Pekingese are physically a little different from many of the oldest dog breeds on this list. However, it is their character more than anything which explains why they have managed to survive so many centuries alongside humanity. These small and furry little creatures possess a great amount of courage and adaptability.

Originally from Beijing in China, they descend directly from the shaggy dogs of Tibet and have inherited very resistant genetics. Presently, the first known stories of its existence are known to date back to the 8^th century AD during the reign of the Tang Dynasty. The Pekingese was so appreciated as a companion dog that they became the official mascot of the Chinese Imperial family.

The Lhasa Apso gets its name from the city of Lhasa which is sacred to the people of Tibet. These furry canines were already being worshipped by the Tibetan people by 800 BC, but during these early stages rarely accompanied royalty or religious figures. Despite their small size, this is a particularly brave dog which is well adapted to different climates.

As well as being one of the oldest dogs in the world, the Shih Tzu is also one of the most beloved. Whether it is because of its appearance or charming temperament, spending time with them show you it is not hard to understand why. Originally from China, the Shih Tzu's name literally means lion, deriving from its beautiful long coat which keeps growing throughout their lives.

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