Once upon a time, these magnificent dogs faithfully served humanity. However, for various reasons, they have faded into obscurity. In some cases, humans were responsible for the extinction of certain breeds, while in others, their existence depended on objective circumstances. The British publication Daily Mail introduced its readers to just a few of the strangest and most unique dog breeds lost to history.
Turnspit Dog or the Kitchen Dog
This breed was developed for a culinary mission—turning the spit. In medieval British restaurants and hotels, they helped roast meat over an open fire. To ensure the meat cooked evenly and didn’t burn, these little dogs had to run like a hamster on a wheel, rotating the spit. Known as kitchen or culinary dogs, they were classified as a distinct breed in the 16th century by dog expert Johannes Caius. Eventually, culinary dogs made their way to the United States. However, with the advent of kitchen appliances that replaced these animals, the breed became extinct. It is said that turnspits are distant relatives of corgis and terriers.
Hawaiian Vegetarian Dog or Poi Dog
These adorable dogs, who preferred a plant-based diet, were brought to Hawaii by Polynesian settlers around the 300s (or, according to other sources, the 800s) AD. They were used as companions for small children. In native Hawaiian tribes, every child received a poi puppy at birth. If a child died, the dog was buried alongside them. Poi dogs were forced to adhere to a vegetarian diet, as meat was too expensive. They were fed taro roots, which often led to them being overweight. During attempts to revive the breed in the 20th century, experts described poi dogs as calm, lazy, and not particularly intelligent.
Salish Wool Dog
Members of the Salish indigenous people, who lived in the northwestern region of the Pacific Ocean in North America, bred this dog breed 5,000 years ago. These dogs had exceptionally thick fur, which was spun into yarn by the tribes, and they also produced clothing and blankets. Additionally, these dogs served as transportation for the aboriginal people. Modern research has shown that these domesticated animals were fed fish, and local women sheared their fur with clam knives. The Salish wool dog went extinct a few decades after the arrival of colonists in North America. All that remains of the breed are a few blankets and one hide, which are now preserved in a museum.
Molosser Dog – the Battle Dog of Alexander the Great
The massive Molosser dogs were a popular breed in Ancient Greece and Rome. The poet Oppian described this dog as “swift and steadfast.” Molossers were valued for their strength and bravery. According to legend, Alexander the Great’s mother actively bred Molossers. Researchers suggest that the emperor’s favorite dog, Peritas—after whom he named a city—was also of the Molosser breed. These loyal guardian dogs were mentioned in the works of Aristotle. Some modern experts believe that contemporary European mastiff varieties may descend from these great ancient dogs.
Argentinian Polar Dog – the Dog That Was Banned
Argentinian polar dogs were bred by the military for life in Antarctica in the 1950s. These sled dogs primarily lived on military bases and assisted people in exploring the cold continent. They transported cargo over long distances. The Argentinian polar breed was created by crossing Siberian Huskies and Manchurian Spitzes. According to other sources, Argentinian dogs also have genes from Greenland dogs and Alaskan Malamutes. The Argentinian polar dogs went extinct after 1994 when they were relocated to Argentina. They were banned in Antarctica due to concerns that these animals could transmit canine distemper to seals or attack wildlife. In their new environment, dogs that had lived for nearly half a century in the unique climate of the South Pole lost their immunity and perished.
Alans – Fearsome Hunters Feared by Bulls and Bears
These large dogs were widespread in Europe and the Caucasus until the 17th century. In the Middle Ages, they were a favored breed among the nobility, who used Alans for hunting. They had a rough head and a short muzzle. Artists often depicted Alans with muzzles, and it’s no wonder, as these formidable dogs were capable of taking down bears and were used to bait bulls. In the 15th century, Edward II, Duke of York, described Alans as “well-formed and stronger than any other animals for causing harm.”