Middle Eastern Dog Breeds
The Middle East is famous for its impact on dog domestication. Archeological evidence of dog domestication dating back 12 millennia ago has been found in the region.
These dogs were generally bred to be hunting or companion dogs and could weather the harsh desert sun of their areas. Here are some breeds whose origins can be traced back to the Middle East.
List of Dog Breeds from the Middle East
- Afghan Hound
- Akbash Dog
- Kangal Shepherd Dog
- Armant
- Baladi Street Dog
- Canaan Dog
- Catalburun
- Caucasian Shepherd Dog
- Central Asian Ovcharka
- Ibizan Hound
- Kuchi Dog
- Pharaoh Hound
- Qatari Street Dog
- Saluki
- Sarplaninac
- Sloughi
- Turkish Hound
Middle Eastern Dogs by Size
Large Dog Breeds: Saluki
One notable example of how much the people of the ancient Middle East loved their dogs was found in several burial sites in Israel. Graves where people were cradling their dogs, dated about 8000-9000 years ago, have been identified.
FAQ’s
What were the primary roles of dogs in the ancient Middle East?
The primary roles of dogs in the ancient Middle East were hunting and companionship. Many breeds were developed to pursue game across vast desert landscapes, while archaeological evidence of humans buried with their dogs shows they were also highly valued companions, indicating their dual importance in early societies.
How do Middle Eastern dog breeds tolerate hot climates?
Middle Eastern dog breeds tolerate hot climates due to adaptations developed over millennia in arid environments. Many, like the Saluki, have lean bodies, large ears, and thin coats that help dissipate heat efficiently. This physiology allows them to function effectively under the intense desert sun without quickly overheating.
What does archaeological evidence reveal about dogs in the Middle East?
Archaeological evidence reveals a deep, ancient history of dog domestication in the Middle East dating back 12,000 years. Burial sites from 8,000-9,000 years ago, where humans were found cradling their dogs, suggest these animals held significant value and were treated as cherished companions, not just working animals.
What is a notable large dog breed originating from the Middle East?
A notable large dog breed from the Middle East is the Saluki, an ancient sighthound known for its speed and endurance. Other large breeds from the region include the Kangal Shepherd Dog and the Akbash Dog, both of which are powerful livestock guardians developed to protect flocks in rugged terrain.
Are there native street dog breeds in the Middle East?
Yes, there are native street dog breeds in the Middle East, such as the Canaan Dog and the Baladi Street Dog. The Canaan Dog is a recognized pariah breed that evolved naturally in the region, known for its resourcefulness and strong survival instincts adapted to harsh living conditions.
Why are sighthounds like the Saluki common in the Middle East?
Sighthounds like the Saluki are common in the Middle East because they were perfectly suited for hunting fast prey across open desert terrain. Their keen vision, incredible speed, and stamina made them essential for pursuing animals like gazelles and hares, which was a vital activity for local populations.
What are the general characteristics of a Kangal Shepherd Dog?
The Kangal Shepherd Dog is a large, powerful livestock guardian breed originating from Turkey. Known for its protective but calm temperament with its family, it possesses a solid bone structure and a dense, short double coat. This breed was developed to defend against large predators in its native region.
