Mary Allen
Introduction: The Turnspit dog’s role in the kitchen
Turnspit dogs were an essential part of the kitchen in the 17th and 18th centuries. These small dogs were bred specifically for the purpose of turning a spit over an open fire, which was used for roasting meat. The dogs were trained to run in a wheel-like contraption that turned the spit, allowing the cook to focus on other tasks in the kitchen. Turnspit dogs were often found in large estates, inns, and other establishments that needed to cook large quantities of meat.
Origins: Where did Turnspit dogs come from?
The exact origins of Turnspit dogs are unknown, but it is believed that they were bred in England sometime in the 16th century. It is thought that the dogs were a cross between a terrier and a spaniel, although there is no concrete evidence to support this theory. The dogs were specifically bred to be small, short-legged, and long-bodied, which made them well-suited for running in a wheel-like contraption.
Early breeding: The development of the Turnspit breed
Turnspit dogs were bred for their working ability rather than their appearance. Breeders focused on producing dogs that were strong, hard-working, and had the stamina to run for hours on end. The dogs were also bred for their small size, which made them easy to handle and allowed them to fit in the wheel apparatus. The breeding of Turnspit dogs was largely a cottage industry, with breeders passing down their knowledge and expertise from generation to generation.
Training: How were Turnspit dogs trained for their job?
Training a Turnspit dog was a long and arduous process. Puppies were chosen based on their temperament and willingness to work. Once selected, they were trained to run in the wheel apparatus, which was done by placing them in a small cage that was attached to the wheel. The dog was then trained to run in the wheel by being enticed with food, and gradually increasing the length of time it spent in the wheel. As the dog grew older, it was trained to turn the spit for longer periods of time, until it was able to do so for several hours without stopping.
Physical characteristics: What did Turnspit dogs look like?
Turnspit dogs were small, short-legged, and long-bodied. They had a short, dense coat that was usually black or tan in color. The dogs had a broad head and short snout, which gave them a distinctive appearance. They were muscular and well-built, with a sturdy frame that allowed them to run for hours on end.
Health concerns: Were Turnspit dogs prone to any health issues?
There is little information available about the health of Turnspit dogs, as the breed has been extinct for many years. However, it is believed that the dogs were generally healthy and robust, as they were bred for their working ability rather than their appearance. Some sources suggest that the dogs may have been prone to hip dysplasia, as they were bred for their short legs, which may have put stress on their joints.
Popularity decline: Why did the use of Turnspit dogs decline?
The decline of Turnspit dogs can be attributed to several factors. One of the main reasons was the invention of mechanical roasting devices, which made the use of dogs obsolete. Additionally, the breed fell out of favor as people began to view them as a symbol of poverty and low social status. The dogs were also difficult to train and maintain, which made them less desirable than other breeds.
Preservation efforts: Who is working to preserve the breed?
There are no known efforts to preserve the Turnspit breed, as the dogs have been extinct for many years. However, there are several breeds that are believed to be descended from Turnspit dogs, including the Glen of Imaal Terrier and the Welsh Corgi.
Genetic testing: What have we learned about Turnspit dog DNA?
There has been very little genetic testing done on Turnspit dogs, as there are no living specimens to study. However, it is believed that the breed was a mix of several different terrier and spaniel breeds. Genetic testing on modern breeds that are believed to be descended from Turnspit dogs has shown that they share some genetic characteristics with the extinct breed.
Ethical considerations: Is it ethical to breed Turnspit dogs?
As the breed is extinct, there are no ethical considerations regarding the breeding of Turnspit dogs. However, there are ethical considerations surrounding the breeding of other dog breeds, particularly those that are bred for their working ability. It is important that breeders prioritize the health and well-being of their dogs, and avoid breeding for extreme traits that can cause health problems.
Conclusion: The legacy of Turnspit dogs
Turnspit dogs played an important role in the kitchen for many years, and their contribution to the culinary world should not be forgotten. Although the breed is extinct, their legacy lives on in the breeds that are believed to be descended from them. While the use of dogs for work may be a thing of the past, the importance of responsible breeding and animal welfare remains as relevant today as ever.
Further reading: Resources for learning more about Turnspit dogs
- "The Turnspit Dog" by Gerard Hoffnung
- "The History and Description of the Turnspit Dog" by William Youatt
- "The Complete Book of Dog Breeding" by Dan Rice