Top 10+ Old Dog breeds in World [Update 2024]

Are you also looking for Old Dog breeds? Now your search is over, the American Kennel Club released a list this year comparing the oldest breeds, some of which have been in existence for thousands of years, so without delay let us find out which is the oldest breed.

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Old Dog Breeds in World

Top old dog breed names with history and images.

• Akita Inu – 10,000 years
• Poodle – 2,000 years
• Tibetan Terrier – 2000 years
• Pekingese – 2000 years old
• Greenland Sled Dog – 9,500 years
• Afghan Hound – 8000 years
• Greyhound – 8000 years
• Basenji – 5000 years
• Tibetan Mastiff – 5000 years
• Saluki – 5000 years
• Alaskan Malamute – 3000 years
• Chow Chow – 2000 to 3000 years

Akita Inu – 10,000 years

The Akita Inu, also known simply as the Akita, is a large and noble dog breed originating from Japan. Its history is rich and multifaceted, spanning centuries of cultural significance and adaptation.

Origins:

• Their roots are linked to the mountainous regions of northern Japan, particularly the Akita Prefecture on the island of Honshu, which is why the breed is named after this region.

Ancient Use:

• Historically, the Akita Inu was used for many purposes, including hunting large animals such as bears, boars, and deer.
• Their strength, courage, and stamina made them ideal for these challenging tasks.
• They were also used to guard properties and symbolise nobility and status.

Dog remains found at the Kamikuroiwa rock shelter in Ehime, dating to the Jomon period (14,000-300 BC), suggest that these dogs were used to hunt large game mammals. Despite the ambiguity about the breed, damage to the teeth indicates their hunting role.

Poodle – 2,000 years

Although it is often seen as a French breed, the Poodle probably originated in 15th-century Germany. Early depictions made it look more like a lion than today’s Standard Poodle.

Initially, it was a water and hunting dog used to retrieve waterfowl, and its coat was cut for practicality: long chest hair protected vital organs in cold water, while the cropped back reduced drag during swimming.

Poodles have a happy, gentle demeanour, making them ideal family pets. Easy to train, they excel in various disciplines, from hunting truffles to performing circus tricks. This energetic breed thrives on social and physical stimulation, competing successfully in activities from showing to dock diving.

Tibetan Terrier – 2000 years

The Tibetan Terrier, developed over 2,000 years in the Himalayan mountains, served as a beloved companion, watchdog and good luck charm for Tibetan monks. The Dalai Lama reportedly took his beloved Tibetan Terrier, Senge, with him when he fled Tibet.

Pekingese – 2000 years Old

Pekingese Dog Often affectionately called the “Peke” and brought to the West by the English military in 1860, the Pekingese, also known as the “Lion Dog,” is known for its lion-like appearance, independence, and courage.

This ancient breed, which dates back to around 700 B.C., may not have regained its initial popularity, but the breed is cherished as a loving companion and vigilant watchdog. Their loyal and watchful nature makes them prized in many homes.

Greenland Sled Dog – 9,500 years

Greenland sled dogs lack genetic adaptations to a sugar-rich diet, having worked and adapted together with Arctic people for 9,500 years.” Since 2018, their population has declined dramatically due to climate change, ineffective hunting methods, food shortages, and parvovirus and distemper epidemics, putting them at risk of extinction.

• Weight: Males typically weigh 66 and 71 pounds (30 and 32 kg), while females weigh slightly less.
• Coat: Thick double coat that protects against extreme cold.
• Colour: This breed comes in various colours, including black, white, grey, and brown, often with distinctive markings.

Afghan Hound – 8000 years

While there is a belief that the Afghan Hound originated in the deserts of Egypt, its name suggests a more plausible origin in the regions of Afghanistan and its neighboring areas.

The history of the Afghan Hound is truly fascinating! Originally bred by nomads in Afghanistan and surrounding areas, they were prized for their speed and hunting ability, capable of taking down formidable prey such as antelope and, reportedly, even leopards.

Their journey to the U.K., where they caught the attention of British soldiers and were exhibited at dog shows under various names, demonstrates their charm and distinctive appearance. Known for their independent nature and high prey drive, Afghans can be challenging to train, but they make devoted and charismatic companions.

Greyhound – 8000 years

The Greyhound, an ancient breed found in Turkey around 6,000 BC, is debated among historians as to whether it resembles the Basenji or Saluki.

Deriving from Egyptian dogs, the Greyhound breed served as a hunter and great companion, becoming nearly extinct in the Middle Ages but preserved by the clergy. Intelligent and affectionate, it is still cherished today.

Basenji – 5000 years

The Basenji dog, possibly linked to ancient Egyptian or African origins, retains ancient traits and cat-like behavior. It does not have a dog’s distinctive odor, yodels instead of barking, and is remarkably fussy about grooming, echoing cat-like habits.

• Origin: Central Africa
• Size: 22-24 pounds (10-11 kilograms)
• Breed group: Hound group
• Lifespan: 12-16 years
• Coat: Short, fine coat in various colours, including red, black, tricolour, and brindle.

Saluki – 5000 years

The Saluki’s ancient roots are confirmed by archaeological discoveries such as pendants dating back to 3,300 BC and mummified remains in Nile tombs. Revered by Arab tribes and Egyptian nobility, they excelled as swift dogs, prized for speed, endurance and hunting skills, particularly capable of chasing deer at speeds of up to 42 mph

• Origin: Middle East
• Size: 23-28 inches tall at the shoulder, 40-65 pounds
• Exercise needs: High, need at least 2 hours per day
• Training: Intelligent, but may be stubborn.
• Breed Group: Hound
• Lifespan: 12-15 years
• Coat: Short, smooth, and silky.
• Temperament: Gentle, dignified, independent, and loyal.

Alaskan Malamute – 3000 years

Originating from Siberia and developed in Alaska, the Alaskan Malamute was important for sledge pulling, seal hunting and bear protection.

Named for the Mahlemiut Inuit of Kotzebue Sound, it survived the Gold Rush largely unscathed but was driven extinct by cross-breeding.

The Alaskan Malamute stands 23 to 25 inches at the shoulder and weighs 75 to 85 pounds.

Chow Chow – 2000 to 3000 years

The history of the Chow Chow dates back to the Hun Dynasty (206 BC to 22 AD), found on Chinese pottery. Chow Chows served as versatile working dogs in ancient times. These dogs are believed to be guard dogs and delicious, their name possibly derived from the Chinese word ‘chow’, which means edible.

• Origin: China
• Size: Medium-sized, 18-22 inches tall at the shoulder
• Exercise needs: Moderate
• Training: Can be stubborn but can be trained with consistency and patience
• Grooming: Regular brushing is required
• Health problems: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, eye problems
• The Chow Chow’s blue-black tongue is unique to this breed
• Breed group: Working dog
• Lifespan: 10-15 years
• Coat: Thick, double coat that comes in red, black, blue, cinnamon, and cream
• Temperament: Independent, loyal, aloof, dignified.