Named after the Macedonian word for “January,” Peritas was a great hunter and guardian. He fearlessly fought lions and elephants, helping Alexander become one of history’s greatest conquerors.

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Peritas likely resembled a Dogue de Bordeaux, Mastiff, or Neapolitan Mastiff. Virgil wrote about these dogs: “With [the Molossians] on guard, you need never fear a midnight thief, wolves, or Iberian bandits at your back.”

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Just as Alexander built a city in memory of his horse Bucephalus, he ordered a city to be built by the Hydaspes River in India to honor his loyal friend.

 

Look up more about Peritas, Alexander the Great, and their feats!