Mary Allen
Introduction: What are Turnspit dogs?
Turnspit dogs are a now-extinct breed of dog that was once used in kitchens to turn meat on a spit. These small, short-legged dogs were bred specifically for this purpose and were able to run on a treadmill-like device for hours at a time, allowing the meat to cook evenly. Although they are no longer in use today, Turnspit dogs have a fascinating history and have left their mark on the culinary world.
History of Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs were first mentioned in the 16th century and were popular in England until the mid-19th century. They were also used in other parts of Europe and in the United States. The breed is believed to have originated in the Middle Ages and was likely a cross between a terrier and a spaniel. Turnspit dogs were common in both wealthy and poor households and were considered a necessary kitchen tool.
Other names for Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs were known by a variety of names depending on the region. In England, they were also called "Kitchen dogs" and "Spit dogs." In France, they were known as "Chien de Cuisine," while in Germany, they were called "Küchenhunde." Other names for Turnspit dogs include "Turnspit terriers," "Canis vertigus," and "Canis famelicus coquinarum."
The purpose of Turnspit dogs
The primary purpose of Turnspit dogs was to turn meat on a spit in the kitchen. This was a time-consuming and physically demanding task that required constant attention. The dogs were able to run on a treadmill-like device for hours at a time, allowing the meat to cook evenly. They were also used to help with other tasks in the kitchen, such as grinding spices and turning butter.
Turnspit dogs in the kitchen
Turnspit dogs were an integral part of the kitchen in the 16th and 17th centuries. They were kept in the kitchen and trained from a young age to turn the spit. The dogs were able to run on a treadmill-like device for hours at a time, allowing the meat to cook evenly. They were also used to help with other tasks in the kitchen, such as grinding spices and turning butter.
The decline of Turnspit dogs
The decline of Turnspit dogs began in the mid-19th century with the invention of mechanical spit-turning devices. These devices were easier to use and more efficient than dogs, and they quickly became popular in kitchens. As a result, Turnspit dogs were no longer needed and their numbers began to decline. By the early 20th century, the breed had all but disappeared.
Turnspit dogs in literature
Turnspit dogs have been mentioned in a number of works of literature over the years. In Charles Dickens’ "Bleak House," a Turnspit dog named "Lady Jane" is featured prominently. The dog is described as being "half-starved" and "miserable," which reflects the harsh reality of life for many Turnspit dogs in the 19th century. Turnspit dogs have also been mentioned in works by William Shakespeare, Sir Walter Scott, and Mark Twain.
The appearance of Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs were small, short-legged dogs that were often described as being "ugly" or "unattractive." They had a long body and short legs, which gave them a low-to-the-ground appearance. Their coat was short and wiry, and they came in a variety of colors, including black, tan, and white.
Training of Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs were trained from a young age to turn the spit in the kitchen. They were taught to run on a treadmill-like device for hours at a time, which required a great deal of endurance. The dogs were also trained to perform other tasks in the kitchen, such as grinding spices and turning butter.
Turnspit dogs around the world
Turnspit dogs were used in kitchens around the world, including in England, France, Germany, and the United States. They were an essential part of the kitchen in many households and were considered a necessary tool for cooking.
Modern-day Turnspit dog breeds
Although the Turnspit dog is now extinct, there are several breeds that are believed to be descendants of the breed. These include the Welsh Corgi, the Dachshund, and the Glen of Imaal Terrier. These breeds share some of the same characteristics as Turnspit dogs, such as short legs and a long body.
Conclusion: The legacy of Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs may be extinct, but their legacy lives on in the culinary world. These small, hardworking dogs played an important role in kitchens for centuries and were an essential tool for cooking. Although they are no longer needed, their memory lives on in literature and in the breeds that are believed to be their descendants. The Turnspit dog may be gone, but it will not be forgotten.