The oldest dog breed in the world

Dogs have lived alongside humans since the Stone Age. These animals were the first to be domesticated, descended from the less aggressive wolves. DNA analysis has revealed the oldest dog breeds in the world. Deoxyribonucleic acid is a genetic map of past generations, so DNA markers can be used to determine a breed's genotype, origin, and age.

The Ten Most Ancient Dog Breeds

According to a 2004 study of dog DNA by American scientists, all breeds were divided into four clusters. Species groups with the least differences from the wild wolf genotype, and therefore the earliest to form, were assigned to cluster #1.

• In tenth place on the list of the oldest dog breeds is Shiba InuThis is a type of hunting dog whose homeland is Japan, on the island of Honshu.
• The next representative of very ancient dog breeds is Tibetan Terrier, often called the holy dog ​​of Tibet, ranks ninth.
• Eighth place goes to the "chrysanthemum dog" Shih Tzu, its homeland is China.
• In seventh place is another Tibetan breed - a small companion dog. Lhasa Apso.
• In sixth place is ― Alaskan Malamute, which has been used since ancient times as a sled dog by the Malemiut tribes living in Alaska.
• Fifth place in antiquity ― husky, dogs of the northern Inuit tribe.
• The Samoyed, native to northern Russia and Siberia, ranks fourth.
• Third place in cluster #1 belongs to Basenji, the region of its origin is Central Africa.
• Almost the champion in age of the breed - an ancient dog of Japan, legendary Akita InuThis is a large animal with a powerful build, distinguished by great loyalty and courage.
• The most ancient of all dog breeds on Earth is recognized based on DNA research SalukiThe first depictions of this dog date back approximately 5,500 years. Its region of origin is the Middle East.

Physical characteristics of the Saluki

According to the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI), the Saluki is classified as a sighthound. These muscular dogs, with minimal body fat, stand 58-70 cm tall and weigh between 15 and 25 kg. Their powerful muscles and lean build allow them to reach speeds of up to 70 km/h.

Representatives of this breed have a flat, elongated head, massive jaws with strong, powerful teeth. Large, drooping ears lie close to the skull. The eyes are a perfect oval shape with dark brown or hazel irises. The neck is long, the body is graceful, and the belly is tucked in and lean. The paws are massive, with long toes, the third toe being longer than the others.

The Saluki's body is covered in short, silky hair with luxurious feathering on the ears, thighs, and legs. The coat is most often white, but gray, fawn, red, and piebald are also acceptable. A silky, but shorter coat also covers the back of the low-set tail.

Characteristic features, content features

Salukis are intelligent, non-aggressive toward strangers, and have a calm, reserved nature. They prefer to coexist equally with their owners rather than grovel before them, which is why they often appear unsociable.

To maintain the excellent physical condition bestowed upon them by nature, this breed requires long daily walks to avoid obesity. The ideal living environment for a Saluki is a country house with a well-equipped, spacious enclosure. Thanks to their calm and sociable nature, several dogs of this breed can be housed in a single enclosure.

Slender, lean Salukis drink little water and are very picky eaters. Experienced breeders prefer to feed these dogs a nutritionally balanced, natural diet.

The Saluki, which has survived the rise and fall of many civilizations without changing in appearance, is a living artifact. Today, this breed is used to hunt hares, gazelles, and other small game. Balanced, gentle, unobtrusive, and dignified, the Saluki can also be an excellent companion, creating a special atmosphere in the home.

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