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Throughout history, dogs have played a sacred role in cultures around the world. Not like a faithful companion, but as a messenger or spiritual guide of God. Certain varieties were believed to protect sacred sites, deliver messages from God, and lead souls to an afterlife. Respected for more than a tail waving, these mythical dogs were responsible for heaven. Wrapped in fear, worship or symbolism, they had the title of heavenly work that would proudly blow modern puppies into their chests before chasing their tails.
Sarki
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Often called the “Egyptian royal dog,” the sarki was considered a sacred gift from the gods of ancient Egyptian culture. These elegant, thin dogs are highly respected and often mummified alongside the pharaoh, suggesting that their importance goes far beyond merely dating. Their incredible speed and grace were considered to be a divine feature, and they were frequently associated with the sun’s god ra. Sarkis was so loved that injuring a wound was considered a serious crime. It is no wonder that in their majestic beings and ancient lineage they were considered messengers of God.
xoloitzcuintli
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Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo, was sacred in the ancient Aztec and Mayan civilizations. These hairless dogs were believed to lead the soul into the afterlife and act as spiritual escorts for the dead. Xolo was associated with the god Xolotl, the Astec god of lightning, death and underworld. The family often filled Xolo to ensure a safe passage in the next world. Respected for their mystical roles and healing properties, Xolos was considered a living connection between man and God.
Tibetan Mastiff
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In Tibet’s mountainous regions, Tibetan Mastiffs were considered guardians of the monasteries and guardians of sacred ground. Their huge size and calm yet careful attitude made them ideal for protecting physical and mental spaces. They were often considered sacred sentinels and were able to drive away evil spirits and dark energy. The monks believed that these dogs were spiritual beings in themselves and were sent to protect the holy people from the holy people. If God needed security guards, the Tibetan Mastiff was their first call.
Zenji
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Besenji, from Central Africa, was so respected that he was given to Egyptian pharaohs and was often depicted in ancient artworks. Their quiet, barkless nature added to their mystical charm, as if they were constantly communicating with the higher realms. Known as the “bush dog,” Besenjis was thought to have a spiritual perception beyond the understanding of a normal dog. Their calm and confident attitudes and elegant movements only deepened their belief that they are messengers of divine wisdom.
Pharaoh Hound
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Despite his name, Pharaohhound was originally from Maltese, associated with hunting and respected in mythology. Its shining, amber eyes and refined physique made it seem like it belonged to God’s aide. Some believed that when Pharaoh Hound gets excited, he could “blush” and turn his nose and ears to a rosy pink. These dogs were considered companions of the gods and were deeply embedded in religious and hunting rituals.
Japanese chin
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The jaws of Japan were considered sacred creatures of the Imperial Courts of Japan and China. Considered as a heavenly gift, they are kept solely for royalty and often treated like more spiritual beings than pets. Their daisy size, graceful movements and lone personality gave them an air of divinity. In some legends, they were thought to bring balance and harmony to those around them. They are little monks in fur coats and are meditated in your lap.
Lhasa Apso
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Rasa APSO, raised by the Tibetan monk Ks, was considered to be a representative of the earthly bodies. They were used to protect the monastery with their keen senses and sacred beings, not with wild brutal forces. The monk believed that Lhasa Apso was the reincarnation of a spiritual master who had not yet reached Nirvana. Their long, flowing coats and noble expressions looked like clever old souls in the form of dogs. You did not just adopt Lhasa, you inherited a furry philosopher.
Peruvian Inca Orchid
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The Inca civilization highly valued this unusual ancient variety. The hairless appearance and warm skin of Peruvian Inca Orchids has led many to believe that they have a soothing power. These dogs were often used in religious rituals and were thought to ward off evil spirits. Their quiet and sensitive nature only added to their spiritual charm. In the Inca world, if a god’s message is incoming, it may arrive via orchids in silent mode.
Chow chow
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Chow butterflies are more than a fluffy face with serious gazes. He was once believed to be the sacred guardian of ancient China. With lion-like manes and stoic expressions, they were associated with mental protection and were often thought to ward off evil spirits. Some legends even claimed that their blue black tongues were marks for touching the sky or being kissed by the heavens. Chauzes were often kept in temples and palaces, not as status symbols, but like sacred sentinels. When it comes to defending the spiritual realm (and perhaps your snack), Chowchau took the role very seriously.
Under God’s Woof
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These legendary varieties were more than just undly companions. They had a direct connection with God’s title, sacred duties, and perhaps later heavenly duties. Their roles, respected as divine messengers, guardians of the spiritual realm, and guides to wandering souls, went far beyond basic fetch. So, the next time your puppy is staring at the distance as if he knows what you’re not doing, maybe they will. They can guide ancient wisdom, decipher messages from the stars, and decide where to hide other socks.
