Top 13 Dog Breeds That Were Once Thought To Have Magical Powers

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Throughout history, dogs have held more than just a place by our side—they’ve held a place in our myths, legends, and even our superstitions. Across cultures and continents, certain breeds weren’t just admired for their loyalty or beauty but were believed to possess otherworldly abilities. Some dogs had reputations that went far beyond tail wags and belly rubs. Their roles in ancient folklore often included divine guardianship, mystical intelligence, or downright sorcery-level skills. These breeds earned their reputations as four-legged forces of magical nature.

Saluki

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The Saluki, one of the oldest known dog breeds, was revered in ancient Egypt and Persia not only for its grace and speed but also for its seemingly divine aura. Egyptians believed Salukis were gifts from the gods, and they were often mummified alongside Pharaohs to accompany them into the afterlife. Their elegant movements and piercing gaze gave the impression of a creature more spiritual than earthly. People believed they could sense energies and act as spiritual protectors. In a world where dogs were working animals, the Saluki practically floated on a cloud of legend.

Tibetan Mastiff

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Massive, powerful, and with a mane that gives lion energy, the Tibetan Mastiff was no ordinary mountain dog. In Tibetan folklore, these dogs were believed to possess spiritual awareness and protect sacred monasteries from not just intruders, but also evil spirits. Their booming bark was thought to drive away malevolent forces, acting as a supernatural alarm system. Some even claimed they could see things that humans could not, making them mystic sentinels. If a Tibetan Mastiff stared at a wall too long, monks didn’t just wonder—they chanted.

Basenji

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Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji’s eerie silence and cat-like demeanor made it a breed of mystery in Central Africa. Local tribes believed these dogs could communicate with the spirit world, silently guiding hunters or warning of unseen dangers. Their yodel-like sounds and curious expressions added to their enigmatic allure. Basenjis were often seen as links between the physical and the spiritual realms, accompanying shamans on rituals. With their ancient lineage and uncanny intuition, they earned a place among the magically inclined.

Shih Tzu

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In ancient China, Shih Tzus were bred to resemble lions, sacred creatures in Buddhist mythology. These little dogs weren’t just palace lap warmers—they were believed to bring good fortune and protect their owners from negative energy. Their presence in temples and royal courts was often spiritual as much as ceremonial. People believed that the Shih Tzu could ward off evil and bring balance to the home. If a Shih Tzu gave you a side-eye, it might just be sensing bad vibes from your last relationship.

Lhasa Apso

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Another mystical dog from Tibet, the Lhasa Apso was more than just a cute companion—it was considered a sacred guardian. Tibetan monks believed these dogs housed the souls of reincarnated lamas (spiritual leaders) and would serve as spiritual protectors of temples. Their alert nature and piercing bark were thought to be signs of their spiritual awareness. They didn’t just guard doorways—they stood between worlds. Forget guard dogs—these were reincarnated sages with fur.

Xoloitzcuintli

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The Xoloitzcuintli, or Xolo, is a hairless dog native to Mexico with roots deep in Aztec mythology. Ancient civilizations believed these dogs were sacred beings sent to guide souls to the underworld. They were considered spiritual companions in life and death and were often buried with their owners for this very purpose. Their unusual appearance and calm nature only deepened the belief that they had special powers. You didn’t just adopt a Xolo—you made a pact with a cosmic tour guide.

Akita Inu

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In Japanese culture, the Akita Inu was long associated with protection and spiritual purity. It was believed that these dogs could guard against evil and misfortune, especially in households with children. Statues of Akitas were even given as gifts to bless families with health, wealth, and safety. Their stoic nature and deep loyalty contributed to the belief that they had supernatural guarding powers. If you owned an Akita, you had a furry forcefield walking around your house.

Black German Shepherd

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While all German Shepherds are impressive, black-coated ones have had a particular association with myth and magic. In some cultures, they were believed to be omens or spirit guardians. Their intense eyes, combined with their shadow-like appearance, made them seem like watchers between worlds. Some legends told of black shepherds who could see ghosts and protect against curses. They were like ghostbusters in fur coats—but with a way better sense of smell.

Irish Wolfhound

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Towering and majestic, the Irish Wolfhound has long been featured in Celtic legends. These dogs were thought to have spiritual insight and were often tied to warrior culture and noble houses. They were believed to see omens and protect against otherworldly forces. With their size and presence, people said they could scare off not just wolves, but actual banshees. If you wanted a dog that doubled as a magical bodyguard, this was it.

Pekingese

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Bred to resemble Chinese guardian lions, Pekingese dogs held a sacred role in Chinese imperial courts. Legend had it that they were born from the love between a lion and a marmoset, giving them both courage and charm. These dogs were believed to ward off evil spirits and protect the emperor’s soul. They were so sacred that commoners weren’t allowed to touch them. Even today, they carry themselves like they’re still protecting ancient secrets under all that fluff.

Chow Chow

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Chow Chows were believed to possess the power to repel evil, especially because of their lion-like appearance and unique blue-black tongues. In some Chinese legends, their tongues turned blue from licking the sky while creating the world—an act that instantly gave them celestial street cred. Their aloof and mysterious behavior added to the belief that they could see things others couldn’t. Owning a Chow Chow was like having a tiny grumpy wizard living in your house. An adorable, majestic, slightly judgmental wizard.

Scottish Deerhound

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In Scottish folklore, the Deerhound was believed to be linked to the spirit world and would often appear in stories about ancient warriors and magical beasts. These hounds were thought to accompany souls on their journey after death or serve as omens during battle. Their ghostly speed and quiet demeanor made them seem like creatures from a dream. If you saw a Deerhound in the mist, it wasn’t just a dog—it was probably a Celtic spirit in disguise.

Norwegian Elkhound

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The Norwegian Elkhound was seen as a mystical protector in Norse mythology, often associated with gods and warriors. These dogs were believed to guard both the physical and spiritual homes of Viking warriors. Their howl was said to communicate with the gods or warn of supernatural threats. Elkhounds were said to have senses far beyond the normal, detecting both physical enemies and metaphysical ones. If a Viking had an Elkhound at their side, they were rolling with a divine bodyguard.

The One Where The Dogs Had More Powers Than Our Horoscope

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While we’re out here hoping Mercury isn’t in retrograde, these dog breeds were once busy guiding souls, fighting off demons, and licking the sky. These pups didn’t just have good hair—they had a touch of the divine. Their legacies remind us that dogs weren’t just man’s best friend—they were also mystics, guardians, and magical legends in their own right. Next time your dog stares at an empty corner of the room, maybe don’t assume it’s nothing. They just might know something the stars don’t.