Mary Allen
Introduction: What is a lap dog?
A lap dog is a small breed of dog that is often kept as a companion animal and is known for its affectionate nature. These dogs are typically small enough to be held in one’s lap and have been bred for centuries to be loyal and loving to their owners. Lap dogs have become a popular choice for many people, especially those who live in apartments or have limited space, as they are easy to care for and do not require a lot of exercise.
Ancient civilizations and lap dogs
The history of lap dogs can be traced back to ancient civilizations such as Egypt and Greece, where small dogs were kept as pets and were often depicted in artwork. These dogs were typically seen as symbols of wealth and status, and were often pampered and treated like royalty. In ancient Rome, lap dogs were known as "canes parvuli" and were often carried around by their owners in baskets or pouches.
Lap dogs in European royal courts
During the Middle Ages, lap dogs became popular among European royalty and aristocracy, who often kept them as lap warmers or fashion accessories. Queen Victoria of England was known for her love of lap dogs and was often seen carrying her Pomeranians around with her. Lap dogs were also popular among French royalty, with Marie Antoinette famously keeping a lap dog named Mops.
The rise of lap dogs in the 18th and 19th centuries
The popularity of lap dogs continued to grow in the 18th and 19th centuries, as more people began to keep them as pets. During this time, lap dogs were often bred for their small size and affectionate nature, making them ideal companions for people living in small apartments or urban areas. Many lap dog breeds were developed during this time, including the Chihuahua, the Yorkshire Terrier, and the Shih Tzu.
Lap dogs in art and literature
Lap dogs have been popular subjects in art and literature for centuries, with many famous artists and writers depicting them in their works. In paintings, lap dogs were often shown being held by their owners or lounging on cushions. In literature, lap dogs were often depicted as loyal companions to their owners, providing comfort and companionship.
The term "lap dog" in popular culture
The term "lap dog" has become a popular phrase in modern culture, often used to describe someone who is overly submissive or obedient to another person. In popular media, lap dogs are often portrayed as spoiled and pampered pets, with little regard for their own well-being.
The evolution of lap dog breeds
Over time, lap dog breeds have evolved to meet the changing needs and desires of their owners. Today, there are many different breeds of lap dogs, each with their own unique characteristics and temperament. Some lap dogs are bred for their intelligence and trainability, while others are bred for their affectionate nature and loyalty.
The role of lap dogs in modern society
In modern society, lap dogs continue to be popular pets for many people, especially those who live in urban areas or have limited space. Lap dogs are often kept as companions for the elderly or those with disabilities, providing comfort and emotional support. They are also used as therapy animals in hospitals and nursing homes, helping to reduce stress and anxiety in patients.
Criticisms of lap dogs as pets
Despite their popularity, lap dogs have also been criticized by some people for their small size and fragility. Some people feel that lap dogs are overly dependent on their owners and require too much attention and care. Others argue that lap dogs are often poorly trained and can be aggressive or overly protective of their owners.
Lap dogs in therapy and emotional support
In recent years, lap dogs have become increasingly popular as therapy animals and emotional support animals. These dogs are trained to provide comfort and support to people with mental health conditions or disabilities, helping them to feel calmer and more relaxed. Lap dogs are often used in therapy sessions for children with autism or other developmental disorders, helping to improve their social skills and emotional well-being.
Conclusion: The enduring appeal of lap dogs
Despite their small size and fragility, lap dogs have remained popular throughout history and continue to be beloved pets for many people today. These dogs are known for their affectionate nature and loyalty to their owners, and provide comfort and companionship to people of all ages. Whether as fashion accessories or therapy animals, lap dogs have played an important role in human society for centuries.
Further reading and resources
- "Lap Dogs: A Complete Guide to Small Dog Breeds" by David Taylor
- "The History of Lap Dogs" by Elizabeth Wurzel
- "Small Dogs, Big Hearts: A Guide to Caring for Your Little Dog" by Darlene Arden