The British Royal Family has long shared a deep bond with dogs, with different members favouring specific breeds across generations. From famous canine companions to less popular favourites, these dogs have always been considered more than just pets, as they have been representative of the royal families' personalities and traditions.
Corgis: The Most Iconic Royal Companions
Of all dog breeds, none comes close to being recognized with royalty like the Pembroke Welsh Corgi. Small and playful dogs, the Pembroke Welsh Corgis were made popular by their owner, Queen Elizabeth II, who had over 30 corgis during her lifetime. Her passion for this breed started while she was still young when her father, King George VI, bought a corgi called Dookie back in 1933.
The Dorgi: A Royal Hybrid
An unusual entry into royal history is the creation of the Dorgi, which is a hybrid breed made up of a corgi and a dachshund. The Dorgis had the playful traits of the corgi and the elongated body of the dachshund, and some of them were popular pets at the palace.
The Cocker Spaniels: Modern Royal Favourite
Recently, there has been a trend of young royals adopting cocker spaniels as family pets. The Prince and Princess of Wales, William and Catherine, once owned a cocker spaniel named Lupo and later adopted another one.
Labradors and Beagles: The Dogs Belonging to Prince Harry and Meghan Markle
With the coming of Prince Harry and his wife, the royal pets became more modernized in terms of breeds with Labrador Retriever and the rescue Beagle joining the group. Both are well-known for being loyal, intelligent, and friendly companions.
Jack Russell Terriers: The Choice of King Charles III
King Charles III (previously Prince Charles) has a particular liking for Jack Russell Terriers. These dogs embody an active nature through their energetic demeanor and have been a part of the royal family for many years.
Bull Terriers and Norfolk Terriers
Apart from the common royal dogs, some royals have owned other types that are rarely mentioned. For instance, Bull Terriers are known to have been owned by Princess Anne, while Princess Beatrice and Eugenie have been said to own Norfolk Terriers.
From the Queen’s affectionate corgis to the new generations’ spaniels and even adopted dogs, dogs have played a significant part in the life of the British Royal Family. Each type of dog represents a different period and aspect of the royal household, as well as its traditions and personalities. The fashions might change, but one thing stays unchanged: dogs have been always very important members of the royal family, loyal and comfortable company for the royalties themselves.
