When we think of the Tudor and Elizabethan eras, we often conjure images of grand castles, sumptuous feasts, and elaborate fashions. However, beneath the layers of finery and pomp lies a lesser-known aspect of daily life in these periods: the role of pets in the lives of the people.
The love for pets was not lost on the Tudor and Elizabethan royalty. Among the most famous pet owners was King Henry VIII, who had a passion for dogs, particularly greyhounds and spaniels. These loyal canines were often seen accompanying the king on his hunting expeditions, as well as providing companionship during his leisure time.
The affection for pets extended beyond the royal court, with the nobility and gentry also indulging in the joys of animal companionship. Among the most popular pets of the time were lapdogs, prized for their companionship and their ability to keep their owners warm on chilly evenings.
Birds of prey, such as falcons, were highly prized by the upper classes for both their hunting prowess and their symbolic association with nobility. Noblewomen were known to keep songbirds, like canaries and nightingales, in ornate cages, both for their melodic voices and their charming appearance.
While the types of pets kept by the lower classes were generally more practical, they were no less cherished. Cats were a popular choice, as they helped to control the rodent population in homes and businesses. Dogs, too, had a place in the homes of commoners, often serving as working animals, such as herding dogs or guard dogs, as well as loving companions.
It is worth noting that, even among the common folk, some people kept more unusual pets, like hedgehogs and squirrels. These animals were often found in the wild and brought into homes, where they became treasured members of the household.
The relationships between the people of Tudor and Elizabethan England and their pets reveal a deep bond and affection that transcended social classes. Pets provided not only practical benefits, like hunting assistance or rodent control, but also emotional support and companionship.
Caring for a pet was seen as a sign of gentleness and compassion, qualities that were highly valued during these periods. Pets were often featured in paintings and literature, further cementing their role as cherished members of society.
While the Tudor and Elizabethan eras are long past, the love and appreciation for pets that was so prevalent during those times continue to resonate today. The rich history of pets in these periods offers a fascinating glimpse into the daily lives of the people and the special bond between humans and their animal companions.
Happy National Pet Day!
Heather Teysko is the creator, writer, and producer of The Renaissance English History Podcast,  the original Tudor history podcast, started in 2009. She's been writing about history online for over 25 years, since her first site on Colonial American history became number one in history on Yahoo in 1998. In 2019 she created Tudorcon, which is now a yearly event, in addition to writing books, and running TudorFair.com - a whimsical Tudor Merch shop.
She has been passionate about Tudor England since she first read Alison Weir's The Six Wives of Henry VIII 30 years ago, and subsequently moved to London after college to spend her time immersed in Tudor history (how exciting when she got to interview Alison for the first time!). In addition to history, she is passionate about travel, and has lived in 3 countries and 4 states (not counting her perpetual state of confusion), and her family (who help her host her YouTube channel occasionally).
