What were dogs called in ancient times? - briefly
Ancient civilizations referred to dogs by various names, often reflecting their utility and significance in society. In ancient Egypt, dogs were often called "Anubis's hounds," named after the god Anubis, who was depicted with a canine head. In ancient Greece, they were known as "kúōn," a term that encompassed various breeds and types of dogs. The Romans used the term "canis," which is the root of the modern word "canine." In ancient China, dogs were often referred to as "gǒu," a term that has persisted in modern Chinese. The ancient Sumerians called dogs "ur-gi," highlighting their domesticated status.
What were dogs called in ancient times? - in detail
The history of dogs and their nomenclature in ancient times is a fascinating subject that reveals much about human-animal relationships and the evolution of language. In ancient civilizations, dogs were often revered and held significant positions in society, which is reflected in the various names and terms used to describe them.
In ancient Egypt, dogs were highly valued and often associated with deities. The term "Anubis" is perhaps the most famous, referring to the jackal-headed god of the dead. However, the ancient Egyptians also had specific names for different types of dogs. The "tesem" was a breed of dog that was often depicted in Egyptian art and was likely a type of greyhound. The "sesem" was another breed, possibly a mastiff-type dog, known for its strength and loyalty. Additionally, the "iu" was a term used to describe a general type of dog, reflecting its common presence in Egyptian society.
In ancient Greece, dogs were also held in high regard and were often associated with hunting and protection. The term "kynos" was commonly used to refer to dogs in general. The Greeks also had specific names for different breeds. The "melitaeus" was a breed from the island of Malta, known for its small size and hunting abilities. The "laconicus" was a breed from Laconia, known for its strength and endurance. The Greeks also had a term "kynagōgos," which referred to a dog handler or trainer, indicating the importance of dogs in their society.
In ancient Rome, dogs were similarly valued for their hunting and protective qualities. The term "canis" was the general term for dogs. The Romans had several breeds, including the "molossus," a large and powerful breed used for hunting and protection. The "verpulus" was a smaller breed, often used for hunting small game. The Romans also had a term "canicula," which referred to a small, yapping dog, often kept as a companion.
In ancient China, dogs were also an integral part of society. The term "quǎn" was the general term for dogs. The Chinese had various breeds, including the "shāo quǎn," a small, fluffy breed often kept as a companion. The "mǎng quǎn" was a larger breed, used for hunting and protection. The Chinese also had a term "gǒu," which was used to refer to dogs in a more colloquial sense.
In ancient Mesopotamia, dogs were often depicted in art and literature. The term "kalbu" was the general term for dogs. The Mesopotamians had several breeds, including the "ur-gi," a breed known for its strength and loyalty. The "kalbu" was also associated with the goddess Gula, who was often depicted with a dog by her side, symbolizing healing and protection.
In ancient Norse culture, dogs were highly valued for their hunting and protective qualities. The term "hundr" was the general term for dogs. The Norse had several breeds, including the "ulvhundr," a breed known for its wolf-like appearance and hunting abilities. The "bjørnehundr" was another breed, known for its strength and endurance in hunting bears.
In ancient India, dogs were often depicted in religious texts and art. The term "śvāna" was the general term for dogs. The Indians had several breeds, including the "śvāna," a general term for dogs, and the "śvāna," a breed known for its loyalty and protective instincts. The "śvāna" was also associated with the god Yama, who was often depicted with a dog by his side, symbolizing justice and protection.
In conclusion, the names and terms used for dogs in ancient times reflect the diverse cultural and societal roles that these animals held. From hunting and protection to companionship and religious symbolism, dogs were an integral part of human life in ancient civilizations. The various terms and breeds highlight the deep connection between humans and dogs, a bond that has endured through the centuries.