Dog Breeds in India:There are many types of dog breeds available in India, each breed has its own importance and many of these breeds have adapted to the different environments and regions of the country over generations. In this article, we will learn about the different breeds of dogs that can be raised or kept in India and will also learn about their characteristics.
1. Indian Para Dog: The Ancient Survivor:
Indian Fairy Dog, one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, they are known for their intelligence and adaptability to their owners, and require little care, you can often see them roaming the streets as stray dogs, if someone raises them and trains them, they can become very loyal to their owners. They are very good with children and adults. They are full of energy.
Physical Features: They have a medium sized body, short hair coat, and erect ears.
Temperament: Very alert, friendly and protective of the family.
These dogs have the power to fight their diseases, they require minimal care, making them ideal for Indian homes.
2. Rajapalayam: The Loyal Guard Dog:
This dog is large in size, this Rajapalayam is a good breed dog from Tamil Nadu, it is also known as Poligar Hound or Indian Ghost Hound, it is a South Indian dog breed, and it is used as a guard dog, it is a popular breed, it is one of the most loved dog breeds of India.
Physical Features: Large size, strong body, white coat.
Temperament: Devoted, protective and a little aloof from strangers.
This breed is deeply associated with the royal families of South India.
3.Mudhol Hound: The Agile Hunter:
These dogs are agile, and originating from Karnataka, Mudhol Hound is a slim but powerful dog known for its fast speed, so two puppies of Mudhol Hound, a native breed of Karnataka, have been made part of the Prime Minister’s security team. Mudhol Hound dogs are extremely loyal to their owners and are also good hunters. These dogs can grow up to 72 cm tall and their estimated weight can be between 20 to 22 kg. According to Dinesh, one of the special features of Mudhol Hounds is their sharp senses. Their long legs, broad chest, and thin belly help them a lot in running and reacting quickly. Their long skull and thin snout give them the power to see up to 270 degrees.
Body Features: Lean body, long legs, thin face.
Temperament: Loyal, alert and very energetic.
These dog breeds play a role in the police and military, which proves the versatility of dog breeds in India.
4. Rampur Greyhound: The Indian Racing Dog:
People see this dog among running dogs, Rampur Greyhound, a native of Uttar Pradesh, is a popular breed among hunting enthusiasts, Mudhol Hound is a strong and fast dog, which looks like Sloughi in appearance. It is usually rarely seen outside its native place, these dogs are also known for hunting big animals.
Physical Features: They have strong legs, smooth coat, long muzzle.
Temperament: Courageous, independent and loving towards the owners.
5. Bakharwal Dog: The Himalayan Guardian:
Bakharwal Dog is a breed found in the Himalayan regions of Jammu and Kashmir, it is raised by nomadic tribes and apart from them it has been raised by Gaddi, Jat, Gujjar, Bakarwal and people of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal for centuries to guard their homes and livestock. So that it can guard their livestock,
Physical Features: Thick double coat, it is strong.
Temperament: Loyal, gentle and protective of its owner.
This breed likes to live in cold weather, it is also used by the Indian Police to catch terrorists across the country.
6. Chippiparai: The Silent Worker:
This breed is found in the South Indian area, it is more popular for its elegance and fast speed, and it is also a good hunter, it has a fawn, black, reddish brown, black coat. Very few white marks are seen on them. And they have a long curved tail. Historically, it is a good breed raised by royal families.
Physical Features: They have a slim body, short coat, beautiful eyes.
Their Temperament: Intelligent, restrained and more energetic.
This breed does not require much care, and it is considered a suitable breed for Indian people, ideal for India.
7. Gaddi Kutta: The Himalayan Protector:
Gaddi dog is a breed of Himalayan sheepdog, found in India from Himalayas to eastern Nepal to Kashmir, this breed is considered strong and fearless and flexible, people use them to protect their livestock from predators. And these dogs are very loyal to their owners. They are also considered as companions of farmers.
Physical Features: They are large in size, have a dense coat, they have strong jaws.
Temperament: They are fearless, and are also protective and loyal.
They need a lot of training and socialization to be friendly with strangers.
8. Kombai: The Brave Protector:
Kombai dog is a strong and fearless breed originated in Tamilnadu. It is mainly used as a guard dog and its loyalty and fearlessness is unmatched. Kombai is highly intelligent and very loyal and loving towards its loved ones and they are also good hunters. They are usually light brown to dark red in color and have a black muzzle.
Physical Features: They have a strong body, short coat, sharp face.
Temperament: Alert, aggressive when provoked, and loving towards family.
This breed needs a lot of proper training.
9. Jonangi: The Rare Breed:
Jonangi Dog, this is a less popular breed, these dogs are used for hunting and livestock protection, and it is a calm breed, and less aggressive but more popular for its famous yodeling sound. This dog is available in dark colors like fawn, biscuit, chocolate, black or white.
Physical Features: Small to medium size, short coat, curled tail.
Temperament: It is calm, intelligent and independent.
Jonangi dog is very good at fishing, which shows the good talent of dog breeds in India.
10. Indian Spitz: The Friendly Companion:
This is also an Indian breed dog “Spitz”, which is popular in Indian homes since 1980 and 1990, and is known for its calm nature. And their tail is bent towards the back, it has pointed ears and muzzle, the estimated lifespan of Indian Spitz is 16 years, its weight is between 5 to 7 kg, and if we talk about their color, then it can be milky white, dusky, brown, and black.
The appearance of this breed resembles Pomeranian and Samoyed dogs.
Physical characteristics: It has a fluffy coat, small size, pointed ears.
Temperament: Playful, more energetic and cute.
Indian Spitz can be easily raised at home, and can be taught.
They can easily live in small houses and large, open houses.
They are more tolerant towards children and also mingle well with other dogs and animals.
Why Choose Indian Dog Breeds:
Many dog breeds in India are naturally adapted to the country’s climate, requiring less maintenance than foreign breeds. Below are reasons why adopting Indian breeds is more beneficial:
Resilient: These breeds have better resistance to diseases prevalent in the region.
Affordability: Most Indian breeds require very little maintenance and veterinary care.
Loyalty: These dogs bond deeply with their families.
Adopting an Indian breed is also a contribution towards preserving our rich heritage.
Caring for Indian Dog Breeds:
The following advice ensures that these loyal furry pals live healthy lives:
Food: Organize a balanced diet according to its size and energy requirements.
Exercise: Breeds like the Mudhol Hound and Rajapalayam need daily exercise to remain fit and active.
Check-ups: Make periodic vet check-ups because even strong naturally sturdy breeds need vet check-ups.
Each breed has different needs, so it’s important to understand needs before bringing one home.
Challenges Facing Indian Breeds:
With all its strengths, a pedigree is still challenged by neglect and lack of awareness in India. Stray dogs, mostly Indian breeds, find it hard to live with a shameful fate. This could become a lot better just by promoting adoptions and creating awareness.
Conclusion:
From the great Rajapalayam to the tough Indian Pariah dog, each breed represents this rich country from different angles of culture and heritage. Not only are they wonderful pets, but they are also part of our culture as a whole. By choosing an Indian breed with its variety, one adopts a pet that definitely suits one’s living style and environment.
So, the next time when you think to have a furry friend in your home, consider contacting any of these awesome dog breeds present in India.
