Mary Allen
Introduction: Royalty and their pets
Throughout history, royalty has always been associated with luxury and grandeur. From palaces to exquisite jewels, monarchs have always had a taste for the finer things in life. Among the most popular luxuries that royals indulged in were their pets, particularly their dogs and cats. Many royals believed that their pets were extensions of themselves and treated them with the same respect and reverence as they did their human subjects.
Ancient Egypt: Cats as divine beings
Cats were considered divine beings in Ancient Egypt and were worshipped as such. They were believed to have magical powers and were often depicted in various forms of artwork. The Egyptian pharaohs were known to keep cats as pets and would even have them mummified and buried with them when they died. The most popular cat breed during this time was the Egyptian Mau, which was known for its striking appearance and grace.
Japan’s Emperor and his Shih Tzu
In Japan, the emperor was known to be a dog lover and had a special fondness for Shih Tzus. The breed was considered a symbol of royalty and was often given as a gift to other monarchs. The emperor’s Shih Tzus were treated like royalty and were even given their own palace within the imperial grounds. The breed was so popular that it became known as the “lion dog” and was believed to have the power to ward off evil spirits.
The Pekingese and Chinese Emperors
In China, the Pekingese was the preferred breed of the royal court. The breed was believed to have originated from a mythical lion that fell in love with a butterfly, resulting in the birth of the Pekingese. The breed was considered a symbol of wealth and prosperity and was often given as a gift to foreign dignitaries. The Chinese emperors were known to keep Pekingese as their personal pets and would even have them carried around on silk pillows.
European Royalty: Pugs and Cavaliers
In Europe, Pugs and Cavaliers were the preferred breeds of royalty. Pugs were particularly popular among the Dutch, who believed that the breed brought good luck and prosperity. Cavaliers, on the other hand, were popular among the English and were often depicted in portraits alongside their royal owners. The breed was known for its regal appearance and gentle nature, making it the perfect companion for royalty.
Queen Victoria’s love for Scottish Terriers
Queen Victoria was known for her love of dogs, particularly Scottish Terriers. She had several of them throughout her reign, and they were often seen accompanying her on her daily walks. The breed was considered a symbol of loyalty and was even used as a symbol of Scottish independence. Queen Victoria’s love for Scottish Terriers helped to popularize the breed, and they remain a popular breed to this day.
Corgis and the British Monarchy
Perhaps the most famous breed associated with royalty is the Corgi. The breed has been a favorite of the British monarchy for over 80 years, starting with King George VI and continuing with Queen Elizabeth II. The breed was initially used to herd cattle, but it was their loyalty and playful nature that won over the hearts of the royals. The Queen has owned over 30 Corgis throughout her reign, and they have become a symbol of the British monarchy.
The Russian Tsvetnaya Bolonka
In Russia, the Tsvetnaya Bolonka was the preferred breed of the royal court. The breed was known for its striking appearance and was often given as a gift to foreign dignitaries. The breed was so popular that it was often referred to as the “Royal Dog of Russia.” The Tsvetnaya Bolonka was believed to have the power to bring good luck and prosperity, making it a perfect pet for royalty.
Siamese and Persian cats of Siam
In Thailand, Siamese and Persian cats were the preferred breeds of royalty. The Siamese cat was believed to have originated from the royal court and was considered a symbol of good luck. The Persian cat, on the other hand, was considered a symbol of luxury and was often depicted in artwork alongside royalty. Both breeds were treated with the utmost respect and were often given their own special quarters within the palace.
The Abyssinian cat and its royal history
The Abyssinian cat has a long and storied history with royalty. The breed is believed to have originated from Ethiopia and was brought to Europe by British soldiers. The breed was a favorite of Queen Victoria, who was known to have several of them throughout her reign. The Abyssinian cat was known for its regal appearance and was often depicted in portraits alongside its royal owners.
The Norwegian Forest Cat of Viking Kings
The Norwegian Forest Cat has a rich history with the Viking Kings of Norway. The breed was believed to have been brought to Norway by the Vikings and was often used as a hunting companion. The breed was known for its thick fur and hardy nature, which made it the perfect pet for the harsh Norwegian winters. The Norwegian Forest Cat was considered a symbol of strength and power and was often depicted in artwork alongside Viking Kings.
American Presidential pets and their prestige
Even American Presidents have had their fair share of prestigious pets. From George Washington’s Hounds to Barack Obama’s Portuguese Water Dog, Presidential pets have always been a symbol of prestige and power. Many of these pets were given as gifts from foreign dignitaries and were treated with the same respect and reverence as their human counterparts. Today, Presidential pets continue to be a popular topic of discussion and are often seen as an extension of the President’s personality.