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.
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