In this article I am going to talk about Indian breeds of dogs. So here are some questions for you, have you travelled to different states in India? What is the first thing you notice when you’re at a new location? The Panoramic View? The Climate? The Food?
There’s one more thing that will definitely grab your attention which is the local dogs, especially if you’re at a food joint. Also, if you are a dog lover, like me, you will naturally be allured (Smiling Face with Heart-Eyes). Significantly, the local dogs in Shimla look entirely different from the local dogs in Ooty. Ever wondered why?
In this blog post, you will know and learn about the varied ranges of Indian dog breeds. So, if you want to know more about the possible exotic Indian dog breeds you can adopt, then here are some of the pedigree Indian dog breeds you can welcome into your hearts and homes based on their natural habitat.
Table of Contents
1. Rajapalayam
The Rajapalayam draws its name from the small town of Rajapalayam in Tamil Nadu. Typically, these dogs are pure white with pink noses and pale skin. In addition, Rajapalayams make excellent guard dogs for families and their large size can intimidate any intruder coming into your home. For this reason, the Indian Army has deputed them as guard dogs in the borders of Kashmir.
2. Rampur Greyhound
The Royal Indian dog breed, the Rampur Greyhound, is the fastest running dog in the country. The former king of Rampur (Uttar Pradesh) played a great role in evolving the Rampur Greyhound. Interestingly, the blood lines of very powerful Afghan’s Tazi dog and English Greyhound have developed these dogs. Its 270 degree field of vision is the most unique aspect of a Rampur Hound, above all.
3. Kashmiri Mastiff (Bakharwal)
Meet the Himalayan beauty- The Kashmiri Mastiff! Its origin lies in northern India, specifically in the states of Jammu and Kashmir and Himachal Pradesh. Notably, from centuries, the Gujjar and Bakharwal communities breed the Kashmiri Mastiff for the purpose of guarding their Livestock and houses. As a result, Bakharwal and Gujjar Dogs are common names for the Kashmiri Mastiff. Similar breeds’ names include, the Himalayan Sheepdog, Bhotia or Gaddi Dog and the Indian Leopard Hound.
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4. Mudhol Hound
The Mudhol Hound is a perfect example of exotic Indian breeds of dogs and it is found in parts of Karnataka and Maharashtra. History says, Shrimant Rajesaheb Malojirao Ghorpade of Mudhol revived the Mudhol Hound. He noticed the local folks using these hounds for hunting. Using selective breeding, he was able to restore the royal Mudhol Hound. On a visit to England in the early 1900s, the Maharaja of Mudhol State presented King George V a pair of hounds, which popularized the Mudhol Hounds. Recently, the Indian Army recruited Six Desi Mudhol Hounds into their ranks in Jammu & Kashmir.
What an inspiring story! Know your tribe and revive your kind.
5. Chippipari & Kanni
Chippiparai and Kanni are South Indian dog breeds. Both are almost similar in looks and are great for guarding. Additionally, they are categorized as hounds and often regarded as the most intelligent and biddable Indian breeds of dogs. The Kanni (which means maiden) is a rare indigenous South Indian dog breed found in the state of Tamil Nadu. Furthermore, the breed is an extension of the Caravan or Mudhol Hound, and also a descendant of the Saluki.
6. Kombai or Combai Dog
Kombai is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. In ancient times, Kombai was a war dog. The sculptures of war dogs are found in ancient Tamil temples. Furthermore, the Kombai has been recognized and well represented by the Kennel Club of India in various dog shows. The Kombai is very alert and easily adaptable to the climatic conditions. Kombai continues to be popular in South India as loyal family pets.
7. Indian Spitz
He’s my handsome guy, Tuffy. He belongs to one of the most popular Indian dog breeds, the Indian Spitz. Their longhaired coat, stylish look and playful nature, makes the Indian Spitz an enduring and classic breed. Typically, they have a pure milky white double coat. However, mixed shades are not uncommon. It is believed that the Indian Spitz have descended from the German Spitz. They were first introduced by the British during the 19th century. Though, there are different standards around the world as to the ideal size of this breed, they are generally larger than their smaller cousins, the Pomeranian.
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8. Kumaon Mastiff
The Kumaon Mastiff is a very ancient and rare livestock guardian breed. These dogs are indigenous to the Kumaon region of the Himalayan Mountains in the present-day state of Uttarakhand, India. They have high energy and massive strength. Currently, with about 150-200 specimens remaining, this dog is extremely rare even in the area of its origin.
9. Indian Pariah
My desi girl, Selfie, is an Indian Pariah. The Indian Pariah dogs are also known as companion dogs. They are extremely playful, affectionate and devoted family dogs with high intelligence. Additionally, they are pure breeds, well suited for extreme Indian climates, where temperatures can vary from -10℃ to 50℃. Besides, they are very alert dogs which are easily trainable. They often qualify as guard dogs and police dogs.
10. Indian Mastiff or Bully Dog
The Indian Mastiff or Bully Dog is a working dog breed used for hunting and guarding. The word Bully derives from the root word of the Bohli languages Hindi-Urdu and Punjabi, which means ‘heavily wrinkled’. This breed is popular in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. They are dominating canines, and hence, suitable only for well-experienced dog owners.
To summarize, the Indian dog breeds are much easier to maintain and cost less to raise. They are skilled, sturdy and adapt well to India’s tropical climate. Even though there has been a recent rise in attention and adoption, there is still quite a large number of them dwelling on the streets. This is primarily because of preferences over foreign breeds and sometimes because of zero awareness.
In his ‘Mann ki Baat’ radio address in August 2020, Prime Minister Narendra Modi urged Indians to adopt Indian breeds of dogs as he emphasized the need to be self-reliant in all areas.
It is high time we realize this issue and revive our Indian dog breeds by propagation and adoption. Let’s together make our home a ‘Home Slurp Home’ .
Share this very informative blog post with al the dog lovers out there.