Dogs have been our loyal companions for millennia, but if you think they’ve always looked like they do now, think again!
Thanks to the art and science of breeding, our furry friends have undergone some pretty dramatic makeovers.
Believe it or not, every dog breed we know today is descended from a single species.
Fast forward to the present, and we’ve got a whopping 340 breeds officially recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale. Not to be outdone, the American Kennel Club gives the nod to 167 of them.
As Stanley Coren, the author of “The Modern Dog,” puts it:
“Dogs are constantly evolving as we’re continually building variants of dog breeds.”
Curious about how much our four-legged pals have changed?
Let’s dive into the evolution of six popular dog breeds over the last century.
The captivating photos of dogs from a century ago come from a 1915 gem of a book called “Dogs of All Nations.”
And trust us, the pictures are a must-see!
1. The English Bulldog: A Cautionary Tale
The English Bulldog has undergone a massive transformation over the last century, and sadly, not for the better.
Overbreeding has led to many health issues, including respiratory problems and a tendency to overheat.
2. The Airedale Terrier’s Fluffy Makeover
At first glance, the changes in the Airedale Terrier might not blow you away.
But look closer!
This breed now sports a longer, softer coat than the “hard and wiry” fur described in the 1915 book “Dogs of All Nations.”
3. The Doberman’s Modern Look
Today’s Dobermans are sleeker and come in a variety of colors.
Gone are the days when only a black and brown coat was acceptable.
And while ear-cropping was once the norm, it’s increasingly falling out of favor.
4. The Bull Terrier’s Dramatic Evolution
The Bull Terrier has seen perhaps the most radical change.
Their heads have morphed into a more football-like shape, their bodies have bulked up, and they’ve even developed some quirky traits—like extra teeth and a penchant for tail-chasing!
5. The German Shepherd’s Growth Spurt
Prepare to be amazed—the German Shepherd has bulked up significantly.
Once a “medium-sized dog” weighing around 55 pounds, they can now tip the scales at up to 95 pounds.
But beware, this growth comes with a downside: hip issues.
6. The Shetland Sheepdog’s Glamorous Transformation
Believe it or not, the Shetland Sheepdog used to weigh a mere 7-10 pounds and had much shorter fur.
Fast forward to today, and they’re flaunting long, flowing locks and a weight of at least 20 pounds!
7. The Saint Bernard’s Unfortunate Downturn
Once a hardy working dog, the Saint Bernard has been bred to be bigger and fluffier, but at a cost.
These gentle giants are now prone to overheating and a laundry list of health issues, from “entropion” to “fibrinogen deficiency.”
8. The Basset Hound’s Droopy Dilemma
The Basset Hound has also seen some eye-catching changes.
Their ears have lengthened, their legs have shortened, and their skin has gotten droopier.
Unfortunately, these changes have led to some serious back issues.
While breeding has given us a fascinating array of dog breeds, it’s also led to numerous health problems, some of which can be fatal.
So, let’s be responsible—adopt, don’t shop!
Learn more about how breeding has changed dog breeds in the video below!
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