Ancient lap dog remains discovered in Lincolnshire, England

Archaeologists in Lincolnshire, England, have discovered the well-preserved remains of a small dog dating back approximately 2,000 years. The skeleton, found near Partney in the Spilsby area, is estimated to be from between 40 BC and AD 60.

Excavations conducted by Wessex Archaeology ahead of construction for the Viking Link electricity interconnector revealed the animal was exceptionally small, comparable to a young Maltese. Its delicate skeletal structure suggests it was a household companion that required human care for survival, rather than a working dog used for hunting, herding, or guarding.

The discovery is considered unusual because it occurred within a rural agricultural landscape. In addition to the canine remains, the site yielded evidence of later activity, including more than thirty Anglo-Saxon graves containing pottery, weapons, and gold and silver jewelry.