10 popular dog breeds and what they looked like in the past
If you know anything about dog breeding, then you know just how much of an influence the profession has had on the way dogs look today. Whether it’s longer hair or more wrinkles, breeders have left their mark on the look of modern-day dogs. Here are some of the more popular breeds and how they used to look in the past.
German shepherd
Recognized for their loyalty, the main difference between the German shepherds of today and the past is in their size. German shepherds of the past were smaller and weighed up to 40 pounds less. The main issue with their larger size is the breed’s tendency to suffer from hip dysplasia.
Pug
Believe it or not, but pugs did not always have the squashed face they are known for. Comparing pictures of past pugs with photos of present-day pugs shows just how much the breed has changed over the years. In addition to difficulty with breathing, their squashed face also leaves them susceptible to choking on their overlarge tongue.
Pekingese
First bred in China, the Pekingese dog breed has spread in popularity around the world. During its climb to prominence, the breed has gone through a few changes in its appearance. Currently, Pekingese are bred to have more hair and a flatter face.
Bull terrier
Over the years, the appearance of the bull terrier has changed quite a bit. In the past, the bull terrier was a much leaner dog than it is today. In addition to its stockier build, the bull terrier of the present has a more football-shaped head and has developed extra teeth to compensate for the increased size of its head.
Shar-Pei
The Shar-Pei dog breed is another breed whose looks have changed drastically over the years. In the past, the breed had long legs and fewer wrinkles. Its current form is way more wrinkled, giving the Shar-Pei its signature look. Its legs are also way shorter making them way more adorable.
Bloodhound
The bloodhounds of the past were way slimmer than their modern-day counterparts. And while they still had the droopy, soulful eyes that the breed has today, the ears and jowls were much shorter. Today, the bloodhound is valued for its signature wrinkly look and laid-back nature.
Doberman Pinscher
The main difference between the Doberman Pinschers of today and those of the past lies in the face and ears. Earlier Doberman Pinschers had shorter ears and snouts. Today, the Doberman’s ears stand tall and proud and its long snout has become a signature of the breed, along with its short, cropped tail, which owners of the past had docked as well.
Bearded collie
Unlike the breed of today, the bearded collie used to be much smaller and thinner. The breed also was less hairy. Modern bearded collies have so much hair that it is difficult to spot the dog’s eyes, much less its other features.
West Highland white terrier
Also known as a Westie, the cute West Highland white terrier used to be much smaller and scruffier than it currently is. Today, Westies are known for their stockier build and coat of long white hair.
Poodle
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The poodles of today look way different than they used to. This change has more to do with grooming habits than any sort of genetics, though. The owners of poodles of the past liked to let their hair grow long. This led to a long wavy look. Today, poodle owners tend to keep the hair of their dogs short with tighter curls.