Did you know that a Mastiff was bred to protect? It makes sense since this is a large breed who watches over his humans well. With his appearance and head that demands a presence, you can guess why this dog breed makes an excellent protector!

Well, you will never guess what our first doggie breed is that served a different purpose in the past. We love this ancient breed — all of them actually — and the reasons why are obvious!

1. Pugs. Since ancient times, members of the Chinese imperial household showered us with adoration. Quite appropriately, Emperors even appointed guards for us. Since commoners weren’t supposed to see us, we were bred small to fit in royal sleeves. The prince mark was a highly desired trait: three wrinkles on our forehead with a vertical bar, mimicking the Chinese character for prince. Our large, unusually prominent eyes were developed to charm hearts outside of China!

2. Neapolitan Mastiff. I’m not glamorous, but I’m certainly memorable to look upon. I’m recognized by my saggy wrinkles, big jaw flaps, and enormous head. The American Kennel Club standard doesn’t mince words: The essence of the Neapolitan is his bestial appearance, astounding head, and imposing size and attitude. I’ll take it a step further: History indicates I was developed for an almost alarming ugliness to deter intruders!

3. Bulldog. Our delightful, and (some say) comical appearance has a rather serious history. Our predecessors drove cattle and worked on farms. But because of our strength, tenacity, and bravery, we were used in the unfortunate sport of bull baiting. My large head (in proportion to my body) served a non-comical purpose indeed.

4. Anatolian Shepherd Dog. I was bred in Turkey for a no-frills, functional purpose: to live alongside and protect livestock. Glamor was irrelevant. My working ability trumped any appearance traits.

5. Komondor. We’re proud of our highly unusual appearance: We’re covered in thick, white cords. Our coat wasn’t developed for style, though. The cords shield us from cold and heat. Our early ancestors guarded flocks of sheep and other livestock against animals such as coyotes. Our white coat allowed us to blend in with sheep, unnoticed by predators, and yet be visible to shepherds in the dark.

But we must always remember, these pooches were bred for a purpose – whether it be working or physicality to keep them alive during stressful situations.

There is more about each of these breeds over on Dogster. And no, while these dogs may never be called beautiful or glamorous (at least according to history since they were originally bred for a purpose), they are all pretty stunning and, dare we say… cute!