Mary Allen
Introduction to Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs were a unique breed of working dogs that played a crucial role in the kitchens of the past. These dogs were bred specifically for the purpose of turning the rotisserie in the kitchen, which was used to cook meat over an open fire. The Turnspit dog’s job was to run inside a small wheel or treadmill, which was connected to the spit, and turn it continuously to ensure that the meat was evenly cooked.
Origin and history of Turnspit dogs
The origin of Turnspit dogs can be traced back to the 16th century in England, where they were commonly used in the kitchens of wealthy households and inns. These dogs were bred to be small and sturdy, with short legs and a long body, which made them the perfect size and shape to run inside the small wheel of the spit. The breed was also known as the Kitchen Dog, the Cooking Dog, or the Vernepator Cur, which translates to ‘dog that turns the wheel’.
Physical characteristics of Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs were small and compact, with a long body and short legs. They had a thick coat of fur that was usually brown or black, and their ears were often cropped to prevent them from getting caught in the wheel. These dogs were known for their strength and endurance, which allowed them to run for hours on end inside the wheel.
Training and care of Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs were trained from a young age to run inside the wheel of the spit. They were taught to keep a steady pace and to turn the spit continuously until the meat was cooked. These dogs were also well cared for by the kitchen staff, who made sure that they were well fed and had access to water.
The role of Turnspit dogs in the kitchen
The Turnspit dog’s job was to turn the spit, which was used to cook meat over an open fire. This was a crucial role in the kitchen, as it ensured that the meat was evenly cooked and that the juices were distributed evenly throughout the meat.
The Turnspit dog’s job description
The Turnspit dog’s job was to run inside the wheel of the spit and turn it continuously until the meat was cooked. This required a lot of endurance, as the dogs had to keep running for hours on end. The dogs were also responsible for keeping the spit clean and free from debris.
The Turnspit dog’s working conditions
The working conditions for Turnspit dogs were often harsh, as they were required to work for long hours in hot and smoky kitchens. The dogs were also often subjected to physical abuse if they did not perform their duties correctly.
Turnspit dogs and the culinary industry
Turnspit dogs played a crucial role in the culinary industry of the past, as they were responsible for ensuring that the meat was cooked properly. These dogs were highly valued by the kitchen staff, and their work was essential in preparing meals for large groups of people.
The decline of Turnspit dogs in the kitchen
The use of Turnspit dogs in the kitchen declined in the 19th century, as the invention of mechanical rotisseries made their job obsolete. This led to a decline in the breeding of the Turnspit dog, and the breed eventually became extinct.
Turnspit dogs in popular culture
Turnspit dogs have been featured in many works of literature and art, including a painting by William Hogarth titled ‘The Roast Beef of Old England’. They have also been referenced in the works of Charles Dickens and William Shakespeare.
The legacy of Turnspit dogs
Despite their decline, Turnspit dogs have left a lasting legacy in the culinary world. They were an essential part of the kitchen in the past, and their hard work and dedication should be remembered.
Conclusion: the forgotten heroes of the kitchen
Turnspit dogs were a unique breed of working dogs that played a crucial role in the kitchens of the past. Their hard work and dedication ensured that meals were prepared properly and that guests were satisfied. Although they may be forgotten today, their legacy lives on in the culinary world.