The elite in Ancient Rome were like modern-day celebrities who cherish their toy dogs

Research in Spain reveals that the Romans loved miniature or toy dogs.  Many members of the elite had pampered pets - much like today's celebrities who cherish their toy dogs.

In Ancient Rome, little dogs were not only pets but also considered a status symbol. In addition, they served to keep women warm, like hot water bottles, and to relieve stomach pains.

A team of Spanish researchers found a small dog that was only nine inches tall. It possessed a flat nose and tiny limbs, and had reached adulthood at the time of its death. Although they could not identify what the dog’s external appearance may have been — such as the color and texture of its fur — the small stature of its full-grown size and characteristics of its skeleton closely resemble that of the modern Pekingese and Chihuahua “toy” breeds.

Sources:

https://www.ancient-origins.net/news-history-archaeology/toy-dog-0013474

https://allthatsinteresting.com/roman-toy-dogs