Dogs have been part of human history for thousands of years, and along the way, they’ve picked up some pretty bizarre superstitions. While we now understand that dogs aren’t magical fortune tellers or ghost whisperers (or are they?), Some people still hold on to old beliefs about their powers. Dogs have been the subject of countless myths and superstitions across cultures. Some of these beliefs are charming, while others are downright strange. Either way, they show just how much people have always admired—and sometimes feared—our four-legged friends.
Dogs have always been our loyal companions but did you know that throughout history, many cultures believed certain dog breeds brought good luck and fortune? While we love our furry friends for their companionship and unconditional love there’s something magical about the idea that your pup might also be bringing positive energy into your home!
I’ve always been fascinated by cultural beliefs about animals, and the connection between dogs and good fortune is particularly interesting. Let’s dive into why dogs are considered lucky and which breeds have been historically viewed as four-legged fortune bringers.
Why Are Dogs Considered Good Luck?
Dogs represent much more than just pets in many cultures – they symbolize loyalty protection, and good fortune. Their presence is believed to enhance positivity and good fortune in your home while also providing protective energy.
In Chinese tradition, people often place a pair of dog statues (called Fu dogs) at the entrance of their homes. These statues aren’t just decorative – they’re thought to guard the home against negative energy and harmful spirits, while welcoming prosperity and good fortune.
But it’s not just about statues! Real-life dogs have been revered for their luck-bringing abilities across numerous civilizations. Throughout history dogs have done more than guard homes or herd sheep—they’ve also been symbols of fortune prosperity, and divine protection.
9 Dog Breeds Historically Considered Good Luck Charms
Different cultures have their own beliefs about which breeds bring the most luck. Here are 9 dog breeds that were traditionally considered to be powerful good luck charms:
1. Shih Tzu
Originating in China and Tibet, the Shih Tzu was believed to be a symbol of luck, royalty, and divine blessing. Often called the “Lion Dog,” this breed was associated with Buddhist mythology and thought to resemble the sacred lions that protected temples.
Chinese emperors treasured these dogs as living good luck charms. They believed that having a Shih Tzu in the household would bring fortune and peace. With their flowing manes and dignified attitudes, it’s no wonder they were treated like royalty!
2. Pekingese
The Pekingese is another imperial dog from ancient China that was considered a powerful good luck charm, especially for nobility. According to legend, the breed was created when a lion fell in love with a marmoset and asked the gods to make him smaller so they could be together.
These dogs were highly revered in Chinese courts and even believed to guard souls in the afterlife. No wonder modern Pekingese still strut around with such confidence!
3. Tibetan Spaniel
Known as the “prayer dog,” Tibetan Spaniels were deeply respected by Tibetan monks who believed these dogs brought spiritual protection and good fortune. They were commonly found in monasteries, where they would sit on high walls acting as lookouts.
Their alertness and intelligence made them ideal companions for meditation and temple life. They weren’t just pets but sacred guardians, thought to ward off evil spirits and welcome positive energy into sacred spaces.
4. Japanese Chin
Revered by Japanese aristocracy, the Japanese Chin symbolized prosperity, charm, and refined luck. These elegant, graceful dogs were often exchanged as gifts among nobility and believed to bring elegance and good energy to any home.
Some believed they could ward off bad fortune with their playful, clown-like behaviors. Even today, their mysterious cat-like mannerisms and royal heritage give them an aura of magical fortune.
5. Lhasa Apso
From Tibet, the Lhasa Apso was trusted as a bringer of good luck and a guardian against misfortune. These dogs were responsible for guarding monasteries and homes through their intuition and alertness rather than size or strength.
Their long, flowing coats and lion-like appearance enhanced their mystical reputation. In Tibetan culture, they were so sacred that they were never sold—only given as gifts, often as a gesture of high honor and spiritual goodwill.
6. Basenji
Known as the “barkless dog,” the Basenji comes from Central Africa and was considered a sign of prosperity and good fortune by various tribes. These agile, intelligent dogs were gifted to pharaohs and royalty in ancient Egypt.
Their unusual silence wasn’t just a unique trait—it was seen as sacred. Some cultures believed they kept evil spirits away and brought calm, peaceful energy to their owners. Their distinctive yodel instead of a bark only adds to their mysterious charm.
7. Dalmatian
In parts of Europe, particularly regions influenced by Romani folklore, Dalmatians were thought to bring protection and good fortune to travelers. Their spotted coats were said to ward off evil spirits.
The tradition of Dalmatians as firehouse dogs began with the belief that they protected horses and brought luck during emergencies. Today, they remain symbols of protection and good fortune.
8. Saluki
This ancient Egyptian breed was considered so sacred and lucky that they were sometimes mummified and buried with pharaohs! The Saluki’s graceful appearance and impressive speed made them highly valued both as hunting dogs and as symbols of divine favor.
In pre-Islamic Arab culture, they were seen as blessed creatures, and touching one was considered an act that brought good luck. Their timeless elegance gives them an aura of nobility that has lasted through the centuries.
9. Finnish Spitz
In Finnish folklore, the Finnish Spitz was more than just a hunting companion—it was believed to bring harmony and good fortune to households. With its fox-like appearance and cheerful personality, this breed was associated with joy, prosperity, and protection from misfortune.
Its natural tendency to alert owners to anything unusual was seen as a positive omen, keeping both wild animals and bad luck at bay. In rural communities, having a Finnish Spitz was considered a sign of a well-balanced and fortunate home.
How Dogs Bring Good Luck in Modern Times
While ancient beliefs about lucky dog breeds are fascinating, our modern understanding of how dogs bring “good luck” has evolved. Today, we recognize that dogs contribute to our wellbeing in tangible ways:
- Improved mental health – Dogs reduce stress and anxiety, which helps us make better decisions
- Increased physical activity – Walking dogs keeps us healthier and more energetic
- Enhanced social connections – Dog owners meet more people, creating networking opportunities
- Emotional support – Their unconditional love helps us through difficult times
- Protection – Dogs still serve as guardians, keeping our homes safer
So while we might not literally believe our Shih Tzu will make us win the lottery, the positive impact dogs have on our lives creates circumstances where good things are more likely to happen!
Bringing Lucky Dog Energy Into Your Home
If you’re interested in inviting some of this canine good fortune into your life, here are some ways to do it:
- Adopt don’t shop – Many believe that rescued dogs bring extra good karma
- Place dog figurines near entryways – Like the traditional Fu dogs
- Honor your dog’s heritage – Learn about your dog’s breed history and cultural significance
- Create positive rituals – Morning walks or evening cuddle sessions establish good energy
- Share your fortune – Volunteer with your dog or donate to animal causes to spread the luck
Is It All Just Superstition?
I sometimes wonder if these beliefs are just old superstitions or if there’s something more to them. While science can’t prove that certain dog breeds literally attract good fortune, there’s no denying that dogs enrich our lives in countless ways.
Perhaps the “luck” these ancient cultures recognized was simply the natural benefits that come from sharing your life with a loyal, loving companion. The protection, joy, and positive energy dogs bring might be the real magic behind these beliefs.
When your dog zoomies through the living room or barks at nothing, maybe that’s not just random dog behavior—maybe that’s centuries-old good fortune at work! These special breeds weren’t just companions; they were spiritual protectors, furry talismans believed to bring luck, guard against evil, and summon prosperity with every wag of their tail.
Whether you believe in the supernatural luck-bringing powers of dogs or not, one thing’s for sure – having a dog in your life makes everything better. And isn’t that the greatest luck of all?
Do you have a dog breed traditionally associated with good luck? Or have you experienced any “lucky” coincidences since bringing a dog into your home? The connection between our canine companions and good fortune continues to fascinate dog lovers around the world.
A Stray Dog Following You Brings Good Luck
If a stray dog follows you home, some cultures believe it’s a sign of good fortune. In folklore, this is seen as the universe sending you a loyal companion to protect and bless your household. Of course, it could also just mean the dog smelled food in your pocket and wants a snack. Either way, adopting a stray pup sounds like a pretty lucky thing to do!
A Dog’s Licking Can Heal Wounds
This superstition comes from the belief that dog saliva has healing properties. Some cultures thought that letting a dog lick a wound would speed up the healing process and even cure diseases. While dog saliva does contain some antibacterial properties, it’s not a substitute for proper medical treatment. Plus, considering what dogs like to lick, you might not want them anywhere near your open wounds!
This Dog Breed Was Once Considered to Be a Good Luck Charm!
FAQ
Can dogs sense something bad will happen?
First of all, this is a myth. Dogs cannot sense evil people by somehow reading their minds. It is just that dogs are excellent at comprehending human body language, and can use this knowledge to predict whether someone might be acting aggressively. Dogs aren’t psychic, they just have well-developed senses.
What pet brings good luck?
Rabbits. Rabbits symbolize fertility, abundance, and good luck. In many cultures, keeping a rabbit as a pet is said to attract prosperity and harmony in relationships.
Are dogs a gift from God?
Father Klimek says it is important to maintain a healthy, moderate perspective that acknowledges animals, especially pets, are gifts from God without falling into a false idolatry that raises their importance to the point of believing we cannot be happy without them.
Is a dog a good omen?
Good Luck Charms: In some cultures, a dog’s presence at a new home is considered a blessing. Warnings: Conversely, a howling dog might be seen as a sign of impending misfortune in certain traditions.