Mary Allen
Introduction: The Royal Family and Their Dogs
The British Royal Family is known for their love of dogs, and over the years, they have owned various breeds. Dogs have been a part of the royal family for centuries. They are not just pets but also loyal companions, and they have played important roles in the lives of the royals. From Queen Elizabeth II to Prince William, many members of the royal family have owned dogs.
Corgis: The Iconic Royal Breed
Corgis are perhaps the most iconic dog breed associated with the British royal family. Queen Elizabeth II has owned more than 30 corgis during her reign. These small but sturdy dogs were originally bred for herding cattle and sheep in Wales. The breed became popular with the royals when King George VI bought a corgi named Dookie for his daughter, Princess Elizabeth (now Queen Elizabeth II) in 1933. Since then, corgis have been a staple of the royal household, and the Queen is rarely seen without them.
Dorgis: A Crossbreed with Royal Roots
Dorgis are a crossbreed between a corgi and a dachshund. They were first bred by Princess Margaret, the Queen’s younger sister, who owned a dachshund named Pipkin. When Pipkin mated with one of the Queen’s corgis, a new breed was born. The Queen later adopted two dorgis, named Cider and Candy, who have been her companions for many years. Dorgis are known for their friendly personality and loyalty, and they have become a favorite of the royal family.
Jack Russell Terriers: A Favorite of Prince Phillip
Prince Phillip, the husband of Queen Elizabeth II, is a fan of Jack Russell Terriers. He has owned several Jack Russells over the years, including a dog named Susan who was a gift from a family friend. Susan became a beloved member of the royal household and even accompanied the Queen and Prince Phillip on their honeymoon. Jack Russell Terriers are known for their high energy and intelligence, making them great companions for active owners.
Labrador Retrievers: A Popular Breed Among the Royals
Labrador Retrievers are a popular breed among the royals, and several members of the family have owned them over the years. Prince William and Kate Middleton are known to be fans of the breed, and they have owned several Labradors. The breed is known for their friendly nature and loyalty, and they make great family pets.
German Shepherds: A Royal Choice for Protection
German Shepherds have been used for protection by the royal family for many years. The breed is known for their intelligence and loyalty, making them ideal protectors. Queen Elizabeth II has owned several German Shepherds over the years, and they have been used for security purposes at Buckingham Palace and other royal residences.
English Springer Spaniels: A Balmoral Staple
English Springer Spaniels are a staple at Balmoral, the Queen’s Scottish residence. The breed is known for their hunting abilities and has been used for game shooting at Balmoral for many years. The Queen has owned several English Springer Spaniels, and they have become a part of the royal family’s tradition at Balmoral.
Norfolk Terriers: A Companion for the Queen
Norfolk Terriers are small dogs that have become a companion for the Queen. The breed is known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them great pets for owners who want a close bond with their dog. The Queen has owned several Norfolk Terriers over the years, including a dog named Willow who passed away in 2018.
Border Collies: A Working Dog for Prince William
Prince William is a fan of Border Collies, a breed known for their intelligence and herding abilities. The Prince has owned several Border Collies over the years and has used them for sheepdog trials. The breed is also known for their loyalty and affectionate nature, making them great companions for active owners.
Tilly: The Royal Family’s Newest Addition
Tilly is the newest addition to the royal family’s pack of dogs. She is a crossbreed between a Jack Russell Terrier and a Cocker Spaniel and was given to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle as a wedding present. Tilly has become a beloved member of the family and has been seen accompanying the couple on several occasions.
The Role of Dogs in the Royal Family
Dogs have played an important role in the lives of the royals over the years. They are not just pets but also companions and protectors. Dogs have been used for security purposes, hunting, and even sheepdog trials. They have also been a source of comfort and companionship for the royals.
Conclusion: A Royal Love for Dogs
The British royal family has a long-standing love for dogs, and over the years, they have owned various breeds. From corgis to German Shepherds, each breed has played an important role in the lives of the royals. Dogs have been a part of the royal family for centuries, and they will continue to be a beloved member of the family for years to come.