The Alaunt was an extinct breed of dog, with the original breed having existed in North Caucasus, Central Asia and Europe from ancient times until the 17th century. This breed developed by the Alans was well renowned primarily for its quality as a large-game catch dog, and as a war dog and guard dog. The Western Alans joined the Vandals on their raids through Europe and by the AD 410s, their fierce dogs were influencing many breeds in France, Spain, Portugal, England and other countries, spreading the use of the 'Alaunt' name, which became synonymous with a type of a working dog, rather than a specific breed. Through breeding with various scenthounds and sighthounds, some Alaunts became valued large game hunting dogs, existing in a variety of types, dictated by regional preferences. In AD 1500, Spain was known for breeding the best Alaunts and used them to conquer the New World.
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