It's well known that most dog breeds exist due to human need. We needed help with hunting, getting rid of pests, keeping livestock in line, and much more. Just as we depend on dogs, they depend on us, thus forming the basis for the symbiotic relationship we have with them and have had for millennia. Eventually, as we advanced technologically and as a group of societies, there was less of a need for dogs in working roles, though there are still plenty of jobs for dogs today.
6 smaller dogs with odd beginnings
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
There's no doubt that Spaniels have a high potential as being a lap dog due to their small size and more gentle temperament. The not too distant ancestors of the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel were thought to hold a similar temperament, and were thus used as a professional lap dog of sorts, keeping their human warm by acting as a living heating pad, according to the American Kennel Club. However, these dogs are speculated to have an even more odd purpose.
Some suggest that these dogs were bred to be flea magnets. The era that these ancestors lived in was also the era of the bubonic plague, and thus it is thought that CKC Spaniels doubled as both a lap dog and, as is noted by Purely Pets, a figure to attract fleas away from their humans. By having a dog, it was thought that any possible fleas would be attracted to the dog rather than the humans and would then prevent the spread of the plague.
Pomeranian
Today, we know Pomeranians as small, yippy lap dogs. They’re fluffy and small and often carted around as a purse or lap dog. They are one of the smallest breeds of dog, usually only weighing around 10 pounds or less. However, despite their small size, they are also known for their mighty bark. Their breed originates in the northern part of Europe.
Before Poms were a feature part of our afternoon naps, they were bred for pulling sleds, as is noted by the American Pomeranian Club. It's hard to imagine these small dogs pulling much of anything, but that's because Pomeranians now look different than they used to. They used to be much larger, around 30-40 pounds larger than today. According to the ASPCA, they would also help out with herding and guarding in addition to their sled dog activities.
Chinese Crested
Chinese Crested Dogs today are known for their flashy looks and dainty frame. Today they are often groomed for health and appearance and exist as lap dogs, show dogs, and general companions. Cresteds are usually known for their graceful appearance, but also for having an easy temperament and being easier to train.
However, their original purpose, before they became known for their fabulous hairdos, comparable to those of poodles, was being a rat dog. According to the American Kennel Club, these dogs would hunt rats and other vermin on ships. It is debated whether Chinese Crested dogs come directly from China, or if their breed originated somewhere else in the world and then was imported to Asia where they became popular.
Yorkshire Terrier
Another breed of small dog considered today to be just a good companion and lap dog is the Yorkshire Terrier. Yorkies, as they're often referred to as, are energetic family dogs and sometimes even show dogs. As their name suggests, this breed hails from Yorkshire and are often seen dressed up in bows and well groomed.
While this breed today is seen as a cute little companion and is beloved for just that, in the past, Yorkies used to be vermin dogs. Noted by Purina, these dogs would scurry around mines, mills, textile factories, etc. and catch mice and other pests. Yorkies, again being known for their small size, would be able to fit in the pockets of miners and other kinds of workers.
Corgi
Corgis are dogs known for their peachy complexion and fluffy behinds. They are one of the species of dog with the shortest legs and biggest of hearts. They are wonderful companion dogs and are often noted to be rather intelligent as well. With such attributes, it isn't hard to believe that they can be great companions. They come from Wales and were introduced to the United States sometime around the 1930s. Today, we see them as companions and sometimes show dogs.
In the past, as well as still being quite prominent show dogs, the beloved Corgi breed was, as is stated by the American Kennel Club, a kind of cattle dog. Before farmers, especially farmers in Wales, used fences, they used Corgis as herding dogs for their cattle and other livestock. The short dogs would nip at the heels of the livestock to keep them in check, as well as chasing or catching vermin and pests.
Chihuahua
Chihuahuas have a reputation for being tiny little balls of fire. They are often cited as being very aggressive and having a big bark and bite despite their small size. Of course, this bad rep is solely based on Chihuahuas who are treated poorly or not trained properly, and most Chihuahuas are great companion dogs with big hearts.
The geographical origins of this breed is widely disputed. Many argue that it comes from the part of Mexico where the Toltec civilization (dating to before the Aztec Civilization) once existed, but others argue that the breed came from other countries and were simply shipped off to the Toltec civilization at one point. Their purpose for being bred is even more interesting, though. According to the American Kennel Club, these dogs were said to have been used as a sort of money or asset in bartering. They were also noted to be used in sacrificial rituals and, some even say, bred for food.
In conclusion, seeing where some of our smaller furry friends originate from creates an opportunity for us to potentially feel more connected, informed, and even appreciative of them. For as long as we have domesticated dogs, they have served us with companionship, love, and labor. They have hunted for us, protected us, worked for us, and have contributed so meaningfully to our lives. Here's to all our small, furry friends.