Did the Ancient Romans Love Dogs?

The ancient Romans, known for their vast empire, intricate legal systems, and monumental architecture, also had a rich and complex relationship with animals. Among these, dogs held a special place in Roman society. The question of whether the ancient Romans loved dogs is not a simple one, as their attitudes towards dogs were multifaceted, reflecting the diverse roles these animals played in Roman life. This article delves into the various aspects of the Roman-dog relationship, exploring their roles as companions, workers, symbols, and even sacrificial offerings.

Dogs as Companions

Household Pets

In many ways, the ancient Romans' relationship with dogs mirrored our modern affection for pets. Dogs were commonly kept as household companions, providing both emotional comfort and practical benefits. Roman literature and art frequently depict dogs in domestic settings, often as loyal and affectionate members of the family.

The Roman poet Martial, for instance, wrote several epigrams about his dog, Issa, whom he described as a cherished companion. In one poem, he praises Issa's beauty and loyalty, comparing her to the most precious gems. This personal attachment to a pet dog suggests that, at least for some Romans, dogs were more than just animals; they were beloved members of the household.

Breeds and Preferences

The Romans had a variety of dog breeds, each suited to different roles and preferences. Smaller breeds, such as the Maltese, were popular among the upper classes as lap dogs. These dogs were often pampered and adorned with jewelry, reflecting their status as luxury items. Larger breeds, like the Molossian, were valued for their strength and protective instincts, making them ideal guard dogs.

The diversity of breeds indicates that Romans had specific preferences and needs when it came to choosing a dog. Whether for companionship, protection, or hunting, there was a breed to suit every Roman's lifestyle.

Dogs as Workers

Guard Dogs

One of the most common roles for dogs in ancient Rome was that of a guard dog. The Romans recognized the natural protective instincts of dogs and utilized them to safeguard their homes, properties, and even public spaces. Guard dogs were often depicted in Roman art, standing watch at the entrances of homes or accompanying their owners.

The famous mosaic from Pompeii, known as the "Cave Canem" (Beware of the Dog) mosaic, is a testament to the prevalence of guard dogs in Roman households. This mosaic, found at the entrance of a house, served as a warning to intruders, highlighting the dog's role in home security.

Hunting Dogs

Hunting was a popular pastime among the Roman elite, and dogs played a crucial role in this activity. Breeds like the Vertragus, known for their speed and agility, were highly prized as hunting dogs. These dogs were trained to track and chase game, making them indispensable companions for Roman hunters.

The Roman writer Arrian, in his work "Cynegeticus," provides detailed descriptions of hunting dogs and their training. He emphasizes the importance of selecting the right breed and the bond between hunter and dog, suggesting that hunting dogs were not just tools but valued partners in the hunt.

Military and Police Dogs

Dogs also served in more official capacities, such as in the Roman military and police forces. The Romans employed dogs for various tasks, including sentry duty, tracking, and even combat. The use of dogs in warfare was not as systematic as in later periods, but there are accounts of dogs being used to guard camps and detect enemies.

In urban settings, dogs were sometimes used by the vigiles, the Roman firefighting and policing force, to maintain order and protect public safety. These working dogs were trained to be obedient and responsive to commands, reflecting the Romans' understanding of canine behavior and training techniques.

Dogs as Symbols

Religious and Mythological Significance

Dogs held significant symbolic value in Roman religion and mythology. They were associated with several deities, most notably Diana, the goddess of the hunt, and Hecate, the goddess of magic and crossroads. Dogs were often depicted alongside these deities in art and literature, symbolizing their roles as protectors and guides.

In Roman mythology, the three-headed dog Cerberus guarded the entrance to the underworld, preventing the dead from escaping and the living from entering. This fearsome creature symbolized the boundary between life and death, underscoring the dog's role as a guardian and protector.

Funerary Symbolism

Dogs also appeared in funerary contexts, serving as symbols of loyalty and protection in the afterlife. Roman tombstones and sarcophagi sometimes featured images of dogs, either as companions to the deceased or as guardians of their eternal rest. These depictions suggest that dogs were seen as faithful companions not only in life but also in death.

One notable example is the tomb of a Roman woman named Claudia, which features a relief of her with her dog. The inscription describes the dog as her faithful companion, indicating the deep emotional bond between the two.

Dogs in Roman Law and Society

Legal Status

The legal status of dogs in ancient Rome was complex and varied depending on their role and ownership. While dogs were generally considered property, there were laws that recognized their value and provided some protection. For instance, the Roman legal code included provisions for compensating owners if their dogs were injured or killed by another party.

However, dogs could also be subject to harsh treatment if they posed a threat to public safety. Stray dogs, in particular, were often viewed as nuisances and could be killed without legal repercussions. This duality reflects the Romans' pragmatic approach to animals, balancing affection and utility with the need for order and control.

Public Perception

Public perception of dogs in ancient Rome was influenced by their various roles and the contexts in which they appeared. While many Romans cherished their dogs as companions and protectors, others viewed them with suspicion or disdain, especially if they were associated with lower social classes or undesirable activities.

For example, dogs used by beggars or street performers were often seen as symbols of poverty and marginalization. Similarly, dogs involved in blood sports, such as those used in the arena, were associated with violence and brutality. These differing perceptions highlight the complexity of the Roman-dog relationship, shaped by social, cultural, and economic factors.

Dogs in Roman Art and Literature

Artistic Depictions

Dogs were a popular subject in Roman art, appearing in mosaics, frescoes, sculptures, and coins. These artistic representations provide valuable insights into how Romans viewed and interacted with dogs. Common themes include loyalty, protection, and companionship, reflecting the positive aspects of the Roman-dog relationship.

One famous example is the "Dog of Alcibiades" mosaic, which depicts a dog with a collar and leash, symbolizing domestication and control. Another notable work is the "Diana and Actaeon" fresco, which shows hunting dogs in action, emphasizing their role in the hunt.

Literary References

Roman literature is replete with references to dogs, ranging from affectionate portrayals to symbolic representations. Poets like Ovid and Virgil often used dogs as metaphors for loyalty, fidelity, and vigilance. In Virgil's "Aeneid," for instance, the hero Aeneas is compared to a faithful dog, underscoring his steadfastness and devotion.

Prose writers, such as Pliny the Elder, also wrote about dogs, often focusing on their practical uses and characteristics. Pliny's "Natural History" includes descriptions of various dog breeds and their traits, reflecting the Romans' interest in the natural world and their desire to categorize and understand it.

Dogs in Roman Rituals and Sacrifices

Sacrificial Offerings

While dogs were often cherished as companions and workers, they were also used in religious rituals and sacrifices. The Romans believed that certain rituals required the offering of animals, including dogs, to appease the gods and ensure favorable outcomes.

One notable example is the ritual of the Lupercalia, a festival dedicated to the god Faunus. During this festival, priests known as Luperci would sacrifice goats and dogs, using their hides to whip women in a fertility rite. This practice, while seemingly brutal, was deeply rooted in Roman religious tradition and symbolism.

Healing and Purification

Dogs were also associated with healing and purification in Roman religion. The temple of Asclepius, the god of medicine, often featured dogs as sacred animals. These dogs were believed to have healing powers and were sometimes used in therapeutic rituals.

In some cases, dogs were involved in purification rites, where they were used to cleanse individuals or spaces of impurities. These practices highlight the dual nature of the Roman-dog relationship, where dogs could be both revered and sacrificed depending on the context.

Conclusion

The ancient Romans' relationship with dogs was complex and multifaceted, reflecting the diverse roles these animals played in Roman society. As companions, workers, symbols, and even sacrificial offerings, dogs were deeply integrated into the fabric of Roman life. While some Romans undoubtedly loved their dogs as cherished pets, others viewed them primarily as tools or symbols, shaped by their practical and symbolic value.

The evidence from Roman literature, art, law, and religion paints a rich and nuanced picture of the Roman-dog relationship. It reveals a society that valued dogs for their loyalty, protection, and utility, while also recognizing their symbolic and ritual significance. Ultimately, the ancient Romans' love for dogs was as varied and complex as their empire itself, encompassing a wide range of attitudes and practices that continue to fascinate and inform us today.