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The article discusses the acquisition and/or diplomatic gifts of exotic animals among monarchs and aristocrats and the role French diplomacy played from the 16th to the 19th centuries. It comments on the types of animals offered during diplomatic exchanges such as hunting dogs, birds of prey, and elephants. The roles and statuses of princes and ambassadors and the devaluation of animals in exchanges among monarchs are noted. Sighthounds as a symbol of the relationship between France and England, French King Louis XIV looking to fill his menagerie (Versailles, France) with exotic animals, and the evolution and transition of diplomatic missions to scientific delegations are also discussed.