What Dog Breeds Existed in Pre-Roman Iron Age Britain
Before the arrival of the Romans in 55 BCE, the people of pre-Roman Iron Age Britain lived alongside a variety of canine companions. Archaeological evidence and ancient texts suggest that several distinct dog breeds were present during this time period.
Archaeological Evidence:
- Skull fragments: Excavations have uncovered numerous skull fragments of dogs from pre-Roman Iron Age sites. These fragments provide valuable insights into the size, shape, and characteristics of the breeds.
- Bone tools: Dog bones were often used as tools, such as needles and awls. The modification patterns on these bones suggest that dogs were employed for a range of tasks, including hunting, herding, and protection.
Ancient Texts:
- Caesar's "The Gallic Wars": Julius Caesar described the dogs of Britain as large and fierce, with sharp teeth and strong bodies.
- Strabo's "Geographica": The Greek geographer Strabo mentioned a breed of British dogs called the "Alces," known for their large size and hunting abilities.
Possible Breeds:
- Celtic Wolfhound: This massive breed, possibly related to modern-day Irish Wolfhounds, was used for hunting and warfare.
- British Sheepdog: A medium-sized herding breed, similar to modern-day Border Collies, assisted with livestock management.
- Alces: The hound described by Strabo may have been a specialized hunting breed, perhaps resembling the modern-day Greyhound.
- Other Breeds: Smaller breeds, such as terriers or spaniels, may also have been present, but their existence is less documented.
Related Questions
- What were the primary uses of dogs in pre-Roman Iron Age Britain?
- What is the evidence for the Celtic Wolfhound breed?
- How did the arrival of the Romans influence British dog breeds?
- What is the significance of Strabo's mention of the Alces breed?
- What archaeological methods are used to identify dog breeds from pre-Roman Britain?
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