A recent archaeological find in Turkey has unveiled the remains of a dog buried over 2000 years ago, suggesting that Romans may have been among the first to breed brachycephalic dogs, similar to today's bulldogs and pugs.
The discovery, published in 2023 in the Journal of Archaeological Science: Reports, comes from excavations at the ancient necropolis of Tralleis, near modern-day Aydın on the Aegean coast.
Key findings include:
The remains of a small dog with flat facial features were found alongside a likely owner, indicating a bond between humans and pets.
Analysis revealed that this dog resembled modern French bulldogs and was about the size of today's Pekingese.
This find is only the second known brachycephalic dog skull from Roman times, the first being discovered in Pompeii.
Experts suggest that Romans may have intentionally bred these dogs as companions, rather than solely for work. The Tralleis dog exhibited no signs of injury, indicating it was likely a pampered pet.
Geneticists note that while this dog may not be a direct ancestor of modern breeds, it highlights the early presence of genetic mutations leading to flat faces. The ongoing popularity of brachycephalic breeds today raises concerns about health issues related to their breeding.
Efforts are now focused on promoting healthier breeding practices to mitigate these risks, ensuring that dogs can lead longer, healthier lives.