Dogs have been man’s best friend for thousands of years, but they haven’t always looked like they do today. In fact, due to breeding, many of the popular breeds of the 21st century have changed quite drastically in physical appearance.
All dogs once originated from one single species, but as of today, there are 340 breeds recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale, and the AKC recognizes 167.
“Dogs are constantly evolving as we’re continually building variants of dog breeds,” said Stanley Coren, author of “The Modern Dog.”
Here are 6 popular dog breeds that have evolved quite a bit in just the past 100 years.
These interesting photos from dogs 100 years ago were taken from a 1915 book titled Dogs of All Nations, the pictures are fascinating!
1. English Bulldog
Then…
Now…
Bulldogs have had a tremendous change over the past 100 years – and not in a good way. Due to overbreeding, the English Bulldog now tends to suffer from many ailments and illnesses like breathing problems and overheating.
2. Airedale Terrier
Then…
Now…
Although the differences might not seem striking, the Airedale Terrier has been bred to have longer, softer fur. In the Dogs of All Nations book, their fur was previously described as being ‘hard and wiry.’
3. Doberman Pinscher
Then…
Now…
Dobermans today versus 100-years-ago are less stocky and seem to come in different color patterns (before, it was only acceptable to have a black and brown coat with a small white patch ‘allowed’ on the chest). Their ears used to be cropped very short, and today, some owners still choose to pin their dogs’ ears, which is becoming less and less tolerated.
4. Bull Terrier
Then…
Now…
The Bull Terrier has perhaps had one of the most drastic changes of the past century. Their heads today have become much more football-shaped, and their bodies are much thicker and more stout. This breed has also developed extra teeth over time, and an obsession with chasing their tail.
5. German Shepherd
Then…
Now…
What’s most surprising about the physical change of the German Shepherd is how much they’ve grown in size. In 1915, they were described as a ‘medium-sized dog,’ weighing just 55 pounds. Today, they can weigh 75-95 pounds, and suffer from hip problems due to their leg bones not fitting properly into the socket.
6. Shetland Sheepdog
Then…
Now…
If you can believe it, Dogs of All Nations reported that the Shetland Sheepdog had a weight range of just 7-10 pounds back in 1915, which much shorter fur. Today, these sheepdogs weight at least 20 pounds, and have long, flowing fur, as well as a longer, sloped snout.
7. Saint Bernard
Then…
Now…
Once known as a hard-working dog, the Saint Bernard has been bred to have a larger, thicker body stature, abundant skin and fur, and their faces have been ‘squished in.’ Sadly, this amazing breed can no longer work, as it will quickly overheat. They also suffer from diseases such as “entropion, ectropion, Stockard’s paralysis, hemophilia, osteosarcoma, aphakia, fibrinogen deficiency.”
8. French Basset Hound
Then…
Now…
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The Basset Hound is yet another breed with very noticeable changes over the years. Today, their ears are much longer, their legs have gotten shorter, and their eyes and skin have gotten droopier. Their rear leg structure has drastically changed, causing vertebrae problems.
Breeding can lead to many health problems and potentially fatal illnesses. Remember, to prevent over-breeding – adopt, don’t shop!
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