15 Myths Behind Dogs’ Unique Traits

Dogs have long fascinated humans with diverse appearances and personalities, sparking countless myths and legends. Stories passed down through generations attempt to explain how certain breeds developed their distinctive features, like the Dalmatian’s spots or the Greyhound’s speed. Here are 15 myths and legends behind dog’s unique traits.

Afghan Hound’s Windy Deal 

According to ancient legend, Afghan Hounds once ran so fast that the wind gods took notice, and bestowed upon them an airy, flowing coat that billows in the breeze. It’s said that this luxurious fur allows them to dance effortlessly with the wind. In reality, Afghan Hounds’ coats were bred for survival in harsh mountainous climates.

Dalmatian’s Fire-Spotted Coat

One of the most popular myths about Dalmatians is that their spots are a mark of the fires they helped to fight. The story goes that as they courageously stood beside firefighters, embers left their lasting imprint, hence their distinct black-and-white appearance. However, the truth behind their spots is purely genetic.

Shiba Inu and the Fox Spirit

Japanese folklore is rich with tales of Kitsune, mystical fox spirits that could shape-shift into humans. Some believe that the Shiba Inu’s resemblance to a fox is due to their origin as a fox disguised to protect human families. While the Shiba Inu’s cunning looks might align with this myth, their features are a result of selective breeding in ancient Japan.

Bulldog’s Wrinkled Wisdom

Legend has it that Bulldogs earned their wrinkled faces as a mark of honor after centuries of fighting bulls in the bull-baiting sport. Each wrinkle was said to represent a battle fought and give the breed an aura of wise and seasoned warriors. Those characteristic wrinkles were actually bred into the dogs to protect their eyes.

Poodle’s Magical Haircut

There’s an amusing French legend that Poodles were once the favored dogs of water spirits. The story claims that the spirits would groom the Poodles with enchanted scissors, trimming their fur in such a way that allowed them to move effortlessly through the water. Although Poodles are excellent swimmers, their fancy haircut was designed by hunters.

Husky’s Northern Lights Eye

In Siberian mythology, it was believed that the icy blue eyes of Siberian Huskies were a gift from the Aurora Borealis. However, in reality, the Husky’s striking blue eyes are simply a genetic trait that occurs in some individuals, and their ability to thrive in cold climates is undeniably real.

Corgi: Steeds of the Fairies

Welsh folklore tells the delightful story that Corgis were woodland fairies’ chosen steeds. Their short stature was perfect for trotting through the forests unseen by human eyes, and the markings on their coats were said to be the faint imprint of fairy saddles. The appearance is actually due to a genetic condition called chondrodysplasia.

Chow Chow’s Sky-Stained Tongue

It is claimed that the Chow Chow’s blue-black tongue came from a brush with the divine. When the gods were painting the sky blue, the Chow Chow licked up the remaining paint, which stained its tongue forever. This colorful myth adds a celestial twist to their appearance, but the real reason for the Chow’s tongue color lies in its genetics.

Basset Hound’s Whispering Ears

Basset Hounds were believed to have ears so long that they could hear the whispers of spirits and messages from the underworld. These spectral whispers were said to guide hunters toward their prey. The truth is much less spooky—Basset Hounds’ long ears help stir up scent molecules, which assists them in tracking game on the ground.

Dalmatian’s Zeus-Like Speed

Greek mythology links Dalmatians to Zeus, claiming that they were his chosen messengers due to their lightning-fast speed. It was believed that they could run faster than the wind and deliver messages between gods and humans. However, Dalmatians were bred for their endurance and swiftness.

Great Dane’s Giant Heritage

Norse legends suggest that Great Danes were originally companions to Viking giants, and their size was a result of being blessed by the gods. They were said to be infused with the spirits of fallen giants, growing large and strong to protect human warriors. While Great Danes do have impressive stature, their size was bred to help them hunt large game.

Shar Pei’s Wrinkles From a Dragon

The Shar Pei’s deep wrinkles were said to be a gift from a protective dragon who wanted to shield the dog from harm during battle. It is believed that the dragon’s magic prevented enemies from getting a solid grip on the dog. Notably, Shar Peis were bred with loose skin, which made it more difficult for other animals to grab hold of them.

Dachshund: The Elves’ Digger

If you think Dachshunds were originally crafted by elves who needed a dog capable of digging tunnels to help them hide their treasures, it’s not true. These dogs do excel at burrowing, but they were actually bred for hunting badgers and other burrowing animals. The unique body shape was ideal for chasing prey underground.

Akita’s Loyalty Blessing

A Japanese legend tells the tale of a young boy who was saved from a wild boar by an Akita. Grateful spirits blessed the breed with unwavering loyalty and protectiveness toward its family, which ensured that they would forever be devoted guardians. Not being true, this story reflects the Akita’s legendary loyalty.

Beagle’s Hunting Howl

Ever wonder if Beagles are secretly in touch with the gods? One ancient myth sure thinks so! It claims their famous howl was a divine gift meant to let them have a little chit-chat with celestial beings during the hunt. Instead, that howl was bred into Beagles for a much simpler reason: so hunters wouldn’t lose them while they were off chasing rabbits.