Centuries of crowns and courts left a paw print on history—and some dogs never forgot it. These royal favorites were pampered in palaces, carried in sleeves, and painted beside monarchs, and they still carry themselves like aristocrats today. From imperious gazes to plush coats made for thrones, their attitudes are pure blue blood. Curious which pups still expect velvet cushions and adoring subjects? Read on.
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel
Born from the laps of Stuart monarchs, the Cavalier King Charles Spaniel still drips with courtly charm. Their expressive eyes and silky ears frame a face bred to melt royal resolve, and yours too. Despite a mild, affectionate nature, they retain a dignified carriage and a fondness for plush perches. Expect them to trail you like a loyal courtier, greeting guests with soft diplomacy. Yet, beneath the satin exterior lies a merry sport spaniel who enjoys a brisk chase. Grooming keeps their feathering princely. Cavaliers crave companionship—leave them alone too long and they’ll stage a gentle, noble protest.
Pembroke Welsh Corgi
Forever linked to Queen Elizabeth II, the Pembroke Welsh Corgi has a sovereign stride despite short legs. Their foxlike face beams confidence, and that brisk herding trot suggests palace patrols. Intelligent and bossy, they appoint themselves head of household security, alerting at the slightest intrigue. Yet they’re affectionate, witty companions who love training games and brisk walks. Keep minds busy with puzzles to avoid mischievous decrees. Their double coat sheds, so grooming diplomacy matters. With clear rules and fun work, this pint‑sized aristocrat rules with cheerful efficiency, corralling hearts like cattle. Bow to the butt wiggles; resistance is futile.
Pekingese
Once guarded by imperial eunuchs and revered as lion dogs of ancient China, the Pekingese still believes it’s divine. Compact and cushion-ready, they float with a proud, rolling gait, coats forming a regal mane. Aloof with strangers but devoted to their chosen court, they expect deference. Their independent streak requires gentle, consistent training—no harsh tones for this emperor. Daily brushing keeps their luxurious coat untangled, while modest exercise suits their dignified stamina. They’re brave, sometimes hilariously so, facing giants with imperial resolve. Provide cool spaces, as flat faces overheat. Treat them like nobility, and they’ll return unwavering, lionhearted loyalty.
Shih Tzu
Bred for the Chinese court, the Shih Tzu was crafted to resemble a chrysanthemum-faced treasure. Today, they parade through homes with serene poise, tails arched like imperial banners. Friendly and people-focused, they greet guests as if hosting courtly salons. Their long, flowing coat demands regular brushing or a practical puppy cut. Under the glamour lies a playful clown who adores training sessions and puzzle toys. They’re adaptable apartment companions yet relish daily strolls. Be mindful of heat and eye care. Treat them gently and they’ll shower you with affectionate warmth, always ready to preside from the softest cushion available.
Borzoi
Once coursing wolves for Russian aristocracy, the Borzoi moves like silk in motion. Tall, refined, and aloof, they carry themselves with icy elegance and quiet manners. Indoors, they’re gentle murals—graceful and calm—yet outdoors they ignite with sighthound speed. A secure yard and leash are essential; their prey drive is royal decree. Their long, wavy coat needs regular brushing, not excessive baths. Sensitive souls, they respond best to soft training and steady routines. Provide plush bedding to protect bony joints. When a Borzoi reclines, it’s sculpture; when they run, it’s poetry—an aristocrat who makes every corridor feel like a gallery.
King Charles Spaniel (Toy)
Distinct from the Cavalier, the King Charles Spaniel—also called the English Toy Spaniel—was bred for Tudor and Stuart courts. With a domed head and shorter muzzle, it exudes plush, button-eyed charm. Naturally content on laps, it rules from velvet with gentle authority. They’re quieter than Cavaliers, often more reserved with strangers. Moderate exercise suits them, paired with steady grooming to maintain feathering. Keep up with dental and eye care, common in toy breeds. Their affectionate loyalty is profound, shadowing chosen people like discreet courtiers. Offer soft beds, warm blankets, and tender training, and they’ll keep your household delightfully dignified.
Pharaoh Hound
Despite the name, the Pharaoh Hound hails from Malta, but its statuesque lines echo ancient art. Sleek, amber-eyed, and capable of blushing with excitement, it carries a sunlit nobility. Agile and playful, it needs daily sprints and scent games to satisfy hunting heritage. Indoors, they’re graceful and tidy, preferring cushioned lounges. Sensitive to cold, they favor coats and warm spots. Positive training keeps their independent mind engaged. Minimal grooming, but watch for scrapes from enthusiastic zooms. With a radiant grin and upright ears, this dog seems carved for temples, yet delights in modern comforts—equal parts museum piece and merry companion.
Lhasa Apso
Temple sentinel turned salon sovereign, the Lhasa Apso once guarded Tibetan monasteries and nobles. Small yet lionhearted, they assess strangers with cool discernment, then lavish family with warmth. Their long, part-down-the-back coat flows like ceremonial robes, demanding diligent grooming or a tidy clip. Intelligent and independent, they need confident, kind training and early socialization. Moderate exercise and indoor enrichment suit them well. They’re naturally watchful, offering a noble alarm without needless noise. Provide routine, respect their boundaries, and they’ll patrol your halls with dignified devotion—tiny guardians who believe every carpet is a sacred runner to a private throne.
Papillon
Favored by European courts and immortalized in Renaissance portraits, the Papillon flutters through rooms on butterfly ears. Don’t be fooled by dainty looks; they’re keen, athletic, and eager to learn. Agility, tricks, and obedience let their brilliant minds shine. Their silky, low-odor coat needs routine brushing but no heavy trims. Social butterflies with family, they can be cautious with rough handling—teach kids gentle etiquette. Daily play and brisk walks keep them sparkling. They love perches with commanding views, surveying their kingdom in feathery elegance. Give them mental challenges and adoration, and they’ll repay you with sparkling, courtly companionship.
Akita Inu
Once companions to Japanese nobility and samurai class, the Akita embodies stoic grandeur. Powerful and statuesque, they move with deliberate, imperial assurance. Deeply loyal to family, they can be reserved with strangers and selective with canine peers. Early, consistent socialization and firm, respectful training are essential. They need daily exercise and purpose—structured walks, scent work, or obedience. Their dense double coat sheds seasonally in dramatic flurries; regular brushing is mandatory. House manners are typically pristine; they adore a cool, quiet resting place. Treat them with honor and clarity, and an Akita will guard your realm with unwavering dignity.
Greyhound
Greyhounds graced medieval tapestries and napped by noble hearths as symbols of status and speed. Today, they still glide with patrician elegance, all fine lines and effortless poise. Indoors they’re couch aristocrats, craving soft beds and quiet company. Outdoors, brief sprints satisfy their heritage. Their sensitive nature blooms under gentle guidance; harshness wilts trust. Minimal grooming and surprising low odor make them refined housemates. Watch for chills—slim coats need warmth. Adopted ex-racers adapt beautifully with patience. Give a Greyhound a throne-like sofa and predictable routine, and it will rule your living room with serene, understated majesty.