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Long before social media followers and luxury cars, one of the most precise ways to say “I’ve made it” was to be seen with a dog that practically oozed opulence. These were not just pets—they were status symbols, gifted between royals, carried through palaces, and immortalized in tapestries and oil paintings. Their presence at your side told the world you were essential, refined, and likely had your tailor. These dogs were living proof that luxury sometimes comes with four legs and a jewel-studded collar.
Pekingese
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Originally bred to sit on the laps of Chinese emperors, the Pekingese were considered sacred, and commoners had to bow in their presence. These regal little dogs were kept hidden within the Forbidden City, emerging only in the company of royalty. With their flowing manes, dignified waddles, and apparent disdain for doing anything too strenuous, they were basically walking velvet cushions with attitudes. Their small size made them portable, but their personalities were fit for thrones.
Afghan Hound
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With its long, silky coat and aloof expression, the Afghan Hound looks like it belongs in a fashion magazine and an ancient palace at the same time. Bred for nobility in the mountains of Afghanistan, this breed wasn’t just about looks—they could chase prey across rugged terrain with unmatched grace. Still, their elegance made them favorite companions of royalty, and in modern times, they’ve kept that diva energy. You don’t own an Afghan Hound—it allows you in its presence.
Saluki
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Known as the “Royal Dog of Egypt,” the Saluki was so revered that it was often mummified and buried alongside pharaohs. With its slender build and dignified posture, this ancient breed wasn’t just a hunter—it was a living treasure. Their speed and elegance captured the admiration of kings and nobles alike. Today, they still move like they’re walking through a dream—and fully expect you to hold the door open.
Japanese Chin
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Tiny, charming, and delightfully ornamental, the Japanese Chin was once the exclusive property of Japanese nobility. They were so cherished that they were carried in the sleeves of royal kimonos and entertained guests with their adorable antics. Their cat-like grace and expressive eyes made them the ideal lap companions for emperors and high-ranking officials. These days, they may not live in palaces, but they still demand royal treatment—and possibly a velvet pillow or two.
Lhasa Apso
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The Lhasa Apso was bred by Tibetan monks to guard monasteries—not with brute force, but with an almost supernatural sense of awareness. Reserved for spiritual leaders and nobility, they were believed to be lucky and often considered a reincarnated guardian soul. Their lush coats and lion-like expressions made them symbols of dignity and spiritual prestige. Even now, they walk like they’ve meditated for a thousand years and are judging your energy.
Papillon
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The Papillon, with its distinctive butterfly ears and regal strut, was a favorite of European royalty—most notably Marie Antoinette. These tiny charmers appear in countless Renaissance paintings, usually perched beside silk-draped queens or tucked under the arms of powdered nobles. Don’t let their small size fool you—they are bold, intelligent, and fully aware, and they come from a long line of castle dwellers. Even in a studio apartment, they act like they’re living in Versailles.
Borzoi
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Borzoi, or Russian Wolfhounds, were the pride of the Russian aristocracy. With their long limbs and flowing coats, they exuded luxury while still possessing the power to take down wolves. Only the nobility could own them, and they were often given as extravagant gifts between royals. Today, Borzois still have that regal poise, gliding through life like runway models with a serious work ethic in hunting. They look like they’ve read Tolstoy, judged it, and moved on.
Shih Tzu
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The Shih Tzu is another lapdog of the Chinese imperial court, bred solely to be adorable companions to emperors and their families. These fluffy charmers were treated like royalty—groomed daily, hand-fed, and worshipped by everyone from palace servants to visiting dignitaries. Their name literally means “lion dog,” and they absolutely live up to it in pride if not in size. Even now, a Shih Tzu expects to be admired by everyone within a 30-foot radius.
English Toy Spaniel
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Favored by British monarchs like King Charles II, the English Toy Spaniel was practically glued to royal laps in the 17th century. These sweet-faced pups with their silky coats and soulful eyes weren’t just companions—they were walking PR for the monarchy. Small, affectionate, and always camera-ready (even when paintings were the only medium), they brought calm and comfort to their powerful owners. Today’s Toy Spaniels still channel that calm regality, but they’ve swapped palace floors for plush couches.
Bichon Frise
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Once pampered in the courts of France, Spain, and Italy, the Bichon Frise is all charm, fluff, and confidence. These dogs were adored by aristocrats for their cheerful personalities and luxurious, hypoallergenic coats. With their jaunty gait and knack for entertaining, they became popular performers and lap warmers alike. Despite their royal past, they’re approachable charmers—kind of like the extroverted noble who remembered everyone’s birthday and also hosted the best parties.
Great Pyrenees
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These majestic mountain dogs were once the protectors of livestock and chateaux in the Pyrenees Mountains, eventually becoming royal guard dogs in France. Their massive size, snow-white coats, and calm confidence earned them a place in the courts of King Louis XIV. Their job was to guard—not just sheep, but also the noble lifestyle. While they’re gentle giants today, they still carry themselves with a noble air that says, “I’ve guarded royalty, and I can guard this backyard too.”
Pomeranian
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The Pomeranian used to be much larger—more of a sled dog than a purse pup—but it was Queen Victoria who bred them down to lapdog size and made them fashionable accessories of the elite. Their fluffy coats, expressive faces, and high-energy charm made them instant symbols of wealth. They weren’t just cute—they were trendy. Even today, Pomeranians act like influencers with fur, ready for their close-up and expecting applause after every strut across the living room.
Samoyed
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With their cloud-like coats and perpetual smiles, Samoyeds were once treasured by Siberian tribes for their warmth and companionship. But their beauty and demeanor quickly caught the attention of Russian aristocrats and eventually European royalty. Their thick white fur became a fashion statement, and their dignified personality sealed their place among the elite. These days, they may not be pulling sleighs for nobility, but they absolutely expect you to admire their glamour with the awe it deserves.
The Velvet Ropes Are Optional When You’re This Fabulous
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These dogs didn’t just walk red carpets—they strutted through palace halls like they owned the place (because they basically did). They were cuddled by queens, commissioned into oil paintings, and gifted between royals like crown jewels with tails. These breeds lounged on cushions worth more than our cars, ate meals more decadent than our holiday dinners, and still had the nerve to look unimpressed. Today, they might accept kibble instead of caviar, but their noble roots run deep—and they fully expect you to remember it.
