The Polynesian Dog refers to a few extinct varieties of domesticated dogs from the islands of Polynesia. These dogs were used for both companionship and food and were introduced alongside poultry and pigs to various islands. They became extinct as a result of the crossbreeding that occurred after European breeds of dogs were introduced. Modern studies done on the DNA of the Polynesian dogs indicate that they descended from the domesticated dogs of Southeast Asia and may have shared a remote ancestor with the dingo.
Kurī specimen, Museum of New Zealand Te Papa Tongarewa, 1924
The Hawaiian Poi Dog is an extinct breed of pariah dog from Hawaiʻi which was used by Native Hawaiians as a spiritual protector of children and as a source of food.
Hawaiian Poi Dog (left) in sketch by Louis Choris, c. 1816–17
Ancient Hawaiian petroglyphic depiction of a native dog, Hawaii Island
A lei niho ʻīlio made from the teeth of the poi dog and olona fiber, Bailey House Museum
A female from the Honolulu Zoo program, c. 1969