Pet Knowledge - PETS AND HUMAN HEALTH

India, with a land of vibrant culture and diverse landscapes, is also home to some of the most remarkable and resilient Indian dog breeds in the world. Here we discuss Indian dog breeds, including Rajapalayam, Mudhol hound, Indian Pariah, and more, with their specific characteristics. Unlike many modern breeds selectively bred for appearance, Indian dogs evolved naturally to suit better survivability. Here are several compelling reasons to select Indian dog breeds.

WHY TO SELECT INDIAN DOG BREEDS?

Indian dog breeds show better adaptability.

Indian dog breeds are very well adapted to the local climate and environment. They are more resilient to India’s weather conditions compared to foreign breeds.

Economical with low maintenance cost seen in Indian dog breeds

Many Indian dog breeds require less grooming, have fewer health issues, and are generally easier to care for, which makes them cost-effective and convenient for families.

Stronger immunity than foreign breeds

Indian breeds typically have stronger immune systems due to natural selection, making them less prone to common diseases and infections.

Protective and Loyal

Most Indian dog breeds are known for their loyalty and strong guarding instincts, making them excellent companions and watchdogs.

Support Local Breeds

Choosing Indian dog breeds helps preserve native species and discourages unethical breeding practices often associated with imported dogs.

Friendly Choice for Ecosystem

Indian dogs breeds have a smaller carbon footprint as they don’t need imported food or special living conditions, unlike many foreign breeds.

Indian dog breeds easy to Train

Many Indian breeds are intelligent and quick learners, making them suitable for various roles—from family pets to service and police dogs.

Rescue and Adoption Opportunities in Indian Dog Breeds

Numerous Indian dog breeds and street dogs are available for adoption, giving you the chance to provide a loving home to a deserving animal.

Indian dog breeds are not just pets; they are a testament to the country’s deep-rooted connection with animals, shaped by centuries of tradition, geography, and purpose. From the majestic Himalayan guardians to the agile street survivors, Indian dog breeds embody strength, loyalty, and adaptability.

LIST OF INDIAN DOG BREEDS

Rajapalayam dog
Chippiparai
Mudhol hound
Combai/Kombai
Vikhan Sheepdog
Pandikona
Kumaon Mastiff
Bully Kutta
Himachali hounds
Bakharwal/Kashmiri Sheep Dog

RAJAPALAYAM DOG

Also known as – Poligar Hound, Shikkar Hound

Native Origin: This breed is native to Rajapalayam in Tamil Nadu, India, and it was historically used by royalty for hunting wild boar.
Appearance: They have a sleek, muscular body with a deep chest, long legs, and a whip-like tail. Their elegant gait gives them a regal presence among Indian dog breeds.
Coat and Color : Rajapalayams typically have short, dense, and smooth white coats. Their pink skin and light eyes give them a striking look.
Body size: They are a medium- to large-sized breed, with males reaching up to 65–75 cm (25–30 inches) in height.
Loyal and Protective: Fiercely loyal to their owners, they make excellent guard dogs and are naturally protective of their family and territory.
Independent Nature: Rajapalayams are intelligent but can be a bit aloof or stubborn, so they need consistent training from an early age.
Alert and Quiet: They are not overly vocal but are always alert and quick to respond to threats, making them ideal watchdogs.
Health condition: Generally healthy and robust, but like many white-coated dogs, they can be prone to deafness, especially if both eyes are very light.
Needs regular exercise: This is an active breed that requires daily exercise and mental stimulation to stay happy and well-behaved.
Economical with Low Maintenance: Their short coat requires minimal grooming, making them relatively easy to care for compared to long-haired breeds.

CHIPPIPARAI

Also known as South Indian hound, Sight hound and Kanni, Nattu nayi

Native – Chippiparai is a rare and ancient breed from Tamil Nadu, India, known for its speed, agility, and hunting skills.

Appearance: Tall, slender body with a deep chest and tucked-up abdomen (similar to a Greyhound). Built for *high-speed running* (can reach up to *60 km/h*).
Coat and colour
Coat is *very short and smooth*, requiring minimal grooming. Common colours: *fawn, black, brown, cream, or brindle* (rarely white).
Curved Tail (Sickle-Shaped)*
Tail is *long, thin, and curves upwards* like a sickle when excited.
Long, Narrow Head with Pointed Muzzle*
The skull is elongated with a tapered muzzle (resembling other sighthounds).
Ears are small, folded, and lie close to the head. Sharp, Keen Eyes Eyes are “almond-shaped, dark brown and highly alert”—showing excellent vision for spotting prey.
High Prey Drive & Hunting Instinct among Indian dog breeds.
Bred for hunting hares, boars, and deer using speed rather than scent.
Strong *chase instinct*—may not be safe around small pets.
Better Agility & Stamina
Can run long distances without tiring, making it an *excellent coursing dog*.
Known for *quick, sharp turns* while chasing prey.
Low Maintenance but Sensitive to Cold
Due to its short coat, it *cannot tolerate cold weather*—needs warmth in winter. Shows minimal shedding so easy to groom.
Independent & Reserved Nature
Not overly clingy—forms a *strong bond with one owner* but remains aloof with strangers.
Highly intelligent but *stubborn*, requiring patient training.
Rare & Endangered Breed – Once favored by Tamil nobility, now *rare* due to declining demand. Efforts are being made to *preserve the breed* in its native region.

MUDHOL HOUND Considered as Tallest Indian dog breeds

Also known as CARAVAN HOUND or KARWANI

Native and Heritage: Hails from the Mudhol region of Karnataka, India, with a history tied to nomadic tribes and royalty of the Deccan Plateau.

Sighthound Characteristics– it is built for speed and agility, with a slender, aerodynamic body, deep chest, and long legs, making it an exceptional hunter of small game among Indian dog breeds.

Appearance– having a sleek, short coat in colors like fawn, white. Black, brindle and an elegant, athletic build that reflects its grace and strength.

Temperament– Mudhol Hounds are independent, alert, and reserved with strangers but form strong, loyal bonds with their owners, making them excellent companions for experienced handlers.

Role in Military and Police Service– Mudhol Hounds are recognized for their tracking and guarding abilities. Mudhol Hounds have been employed by the Indian Army and police forces, due to their better versatility and discipline.

Having Low Maintenance– Their short coat requires minimal grooming, and their hardy genetics make them naturally healthy, adaptable to India’s warm climate, and resistant to many common ailments.

Needs regular Exercise – being highly energetic, they require regular exercise, including sufficient space to run, making them ideal for active owners or rural settings.

Having Cultural Significance– The breed gained prominence when the royal family of Mudhol gifted these dogs to the Indian Army, cementing their legacy as a symbol of Karnataka’s pride.

About Conservation Status- While gaining recognition, the Mudhol Hound remains relatively rare, and efforts by breeders and enthusiasts are crucial to preserve its purity and promote its adoption.

COMBAI/KOMBAI

Also known as PERIYA SOORI or TAMIL SOORI, SEVALAI

Native Origin – Among Indian dog breeds Combai is an ancient breed from Tamil Nadu, India, with a history traceable to at least the 15th century, possibly as early as the 9th century. It was developed in the Theni district, named after the town of Kombai, and used by royalty for hunting and guarding.

Appearance– they are medium-sized, muscular, and athletic, standing around 58 cm (23 inches) tall. They have a short, smooth coat in shades of red-brown, tan, or chestnut with a distinctive black mask on the muzzle, and some feature a ridge of fur along the spine.

Hunting Legacy– Historically, Combais were renowned for hunting dangerous game like sloth bears, wild boar, deer, and even tigers and leopards, earning them the nickname “Indian Bear Hound” or “Tamil Bear Hound” due to their exceptional bear-hunting skills

Good Guarding Instincts- Combais are exceptional guard dogs, fiercely loyal and protective of their owners. They are known to fight intruders—human or animal—to the death, making them ideal for protecting homes, farms, and livestock

Temperament– Highly intelligent, loyal, and affectionate with family, Combais are gentle and tolerant with children but wary and aggressive toward strangers or unfamiliar animals, requiring early socialization to manage their strong prey drive

Good Health and Resilience– As a naturally evolved breed, Combais are hardy with strong resistance to diseases and parasites common in South India. They have few genetic health issues, though some may be prone to hip dysplasia, mange, or sensitivity to anaesthesia due to low body fat

Low Maintenance Cost – Their short, dense coat requires minimal grooming, with occasional brushing to manage light shedding. They need regular ear cleaning due to pendant ears and basic care like nail trimming and dental checks

Needs regular Exercise – Combais are energetic and athletic, requiring regular daily exercise to stay healthy and mentally stimulated. They can adapt to apartments if given sufficient outdoor activity and training.

Having Cultural Significance– Combais were valued by historical figures like the Marudhu Pandiyar brothers, who used them in battles against the British in the early 19th century, and by Tipu Sultan, who trained them to attack enemy horses.

Status regarding conservation– critically endangered due to, neglect, crossbreeding and more preference for foreign breeds. Efforts by the Kennel Club of India and Tamil Nadu breeders aim to revive the breed, which is now recognized by the Central Reserve Police Force for its guarding potential.

VIKHAN SHEEPDOG

Also known as CHITRAL WATCHDOG

Native – Vikhan Sheepdog is a rare and ancient livestock guardian breed from the Himalayan regions of Jammu & Kashmir, India.

Appearance– Massive, Bear-Like Build,Heavy-boned, muscular body with a broad chest and thick neck. Males can weigh 50–70 kg (110–155 lbs)* and stand 24–30 inches tall. Distinctive “Lion-Like Mane. Males develop a *pronounced mane* around the neck, resembling a small lion.

Coat and colour– Outer coat- Long, coarse, and weather-resistant. Undercoat-Dense and woolly, providing insulation in *-20°C (-4°F)* winters. Common colours- black & tan, fawn, brindle, or solid white.

Strong Protective Instinct– Bred for *guarding sheep, goats, and cattle* against wolves, leopards, and bears. Extremely *territorial*—will confront predators without hesitation. Deep & Thunderous Bark- Loud, intimidating bark used to *scare away intruders* from a distance.

Showing Independent & Strong-Willed Nature- Works autonomously in the mountains—*does not rely on human commands*. Not suitable for first-time owners due to its *dominant personality*.

Having High Pain Tolerance & Endurance-Can fight with injuries—*bred for survival* in harsh terrains Requires *minimal veterinary care* compared to other breeds.

Show Slow Maturation – Takes *2–3 years* to fully mature mentally and physically. Puppies are playful but grow into serious, vigilant guardians.

Low Energy Indoors but Highly Active in Open Spaces – Calm when resting but needs *large open areas* to patrol. Not suited for apartment living.

Endangered & Rare– Recognized by *Kennel Club of India (KCI)* but remains rare due to declining nomadic shepherd culture. Conservation efforts are on-going to *preserve the breed.

PANDIKONA

Also known as “Indian Doberman”

Native – Pandikona, a primitive-type hunting dog from the Pattikonda taluk of Kurnool district in Andhra Pradesh, India, is a loyal,rare and fascinating Indian breed known for its loyality and versatility.

Physical traits – A medium-sized dog (19–26 inches tall, 48–66 lbs), Pandikonas have a lean, athletic build with muscular legs for speed. Their short coat, typically fawn or light brown but also black, white-patched, or varied colors, is low-maintenance. They have medium-length muzzles, large, droopy-pointed ears, and long, thick, upward-curved tails

Hunting Prowess-Bred for hunting wild boar and small game, Pandikonas are fearless and agile, using keen eyesight and speed as sighthounds. Their strong prey drive makes them effective against larger animals, though this instinct complicates training for non-hunting roles.

Natural Guarding Instincts- Highly territorial, Pandikonas are exceptional guard dogs, protecting villages, livestock, and property. They warn intruders briefly before attacking swiftly, showing confidence and focus, especially against adult threats, but are more tolerant of children and young animals

Temperament-Pandikonas are loyal, intelligent, and independent, forming strong bonds with families while maintaining a free-spirited nature. They are affectionate with children, protective of their household, but wary of strangers and other dogs, often leading to territorial disputes

Health and Hardiness- Naturally robust, Pandikonas have minimal health issues due to their landrace genetics, with a lifespan of 10–15 years. They are prone to joint issues like hip dysplasia, and their short coat makes them vulnerable to cold climates, unsuitable for colder regions

Low Maintenance cost – Their short coat requires minimal grooming—occasional baths, nail clipping, ear cleaning, and tooth brushing suffice. They thrive on simple, homemade diets (e.g., rice, vegetables, meat), adapted to village life, but avoid feeding rotis/chapatis, which can harm digestion

Exercise Needs- High-energy and active, Pandikonas need ample space to roam and daily exercise (brisk walks, jogs, or games like tug-of-war). Their village lifestyle makes them unsuited for apartments or confined spaces, where they may become irritable.

Endangered and rare – not recognized by most of kennel clubs. Few dedicated breeders are working to preserve the breed.

KUMAON MASTIFF

Also known as the Cypro Kukur

Native Origin – Kumaon Hills in the state of Uttarakhand, India. Bred primarily as a guard dog and protection animal by local communities.

Physical Appearance – Large, muscular build with a broad chest and strong limbs. Generally Coat short to medium-length, dense, and weather-resistant. Common colours: Brindle, fawn, black, or a mix of these. Distinctly mastiff-like face with a powerful jaw and drooping lips.

Temperament-Loyal, protective, and intelligent. Known for its territorial nature and can be aggressive toward intruders. Requires early socialization to be well-adjusted with humans and other animals.

Usage-Traditionally used as a guard dog for homes, livestock, and estates. Also used by some forest communities for protection against wild animals.

Exercise & Environment-Needs ample space and daily exercise due to its active nature.Not suitable for small apartments; thrives in open rural settings.

Health – Generally hardy but susceptible to joint issues and hip dysplasia like other large breeds.

Lifespan: Around 10–12 years with proper care.

Conservation- Considered a rare breed, at risk of extinction due to crossbreeding and lack of awareness. Conservation efforts are minimal; breed recognition is still limited internationally.

BULLY KUTTA

Also known as Indian Mastiff, Pakistani Mastiff, Sindh Mastiff ,Alangu Mastiff ,Beast from the East

Native Origin – Originates from the Punjab region of India and Pakistan.Also known as the “Beast from the East” due to its size and power. In ancient time used for hunting, guarding, and sometimes in dog fighting.

Physical appearance -Large size muscular dog with a commanding presence. Weight ranges typically 70–90 kg (154–200 lbs.); Height: 30–44 inches at the shoulder.Drooping ears and a loose, thick skin, especially around the neck (helps protect during fights or attacks).

Coat: Short and dense, commonly white, but also found in brindle, black, brown, and fawn.

Temperament – Fearless, dominant, and protective. Naturally aggressive toward threats, but loyal and gentle with its family when properly trained. Needs an experienced and confident owner; not recommended for first-time dog owners.

Intelligence & Trainability – Intelligent but independent; can be stubborn during training.Needs firm, consistent, and positive reinforcement training. Early socialization is crucial to prevent aggression and encourage good behaviour.

Exercise & Space Requirements – Extremely high energy breed; requires daily intense physical activity.Not suited for apartment life — needs a large, secure area to move freely.

Health and Lifespan– Average lifespan: 8–10 years Generally robust, but prone to Hip dysplasia, Skin infections and Obesity (if under-exercised)

Legal & Social Issues – Banned or restricted in some countries due to perceived aggression. Though many are well-mannered when raised responsibly.

Cultural Significance – Seen as a status symbol in parts of India and Pakistan.Often used in guarding farms, large estates, and rural properties.

HIMACHALI HOUNDS

Also known a ‘GADDI’ DOG

Origin– Native to the hilly terrains of Himachal Pradesh, especially in districts like Kullu, Chamba, and Kangra. Bred by local tribes and shepherds primarily for hunting and guarding livestock.

Size and Build – Medium to large-sized hounds with a lean, athletic build.Ideal for navigating rugged mountainous terrain due to their strong legs and stamina.

Coat and Color – Coat: Short to medium, dense, and weather-resistant.Common colours include black, tan, brindle, and brown, often with white markings.

Temperament

Naturally alert, intelligent, and courageous.Known for being loyal to owners, but wary of strangers — excellent as watchdogs.

Hunting Instinct – Strong prey drive; used historically for tracking and chasing small to medium game, including wild boar and deer.Highly scent-driven, with sharp senses.

Adaptability – Extremely well-adapted to cold climates and high altitudes.Can survive on minimal food and resources, making them suitable for rural settings.

Energy Level – Very energetic and hard-working breed.Requires plenty of exercise and open space to stay healthy and mentally stimulated.

Trainability – Intelligent, but can be independent-minded.Responds well to training if handled with patience and consistency from a young age.

Health & Lifespan – Generally a hardy breed with few inherited health problems.Lifespan typically ranges from 10–13 years, depending on care and environment.

Rarity & Recognition – Considered a rare indigenous breed, with limited documentation. Often overshadowed by more popular breeds and at risk of dilution through crossbreeding.

INDIAN PARIAH DOG

Also known as Indie Dog ,Native Indian Dog ,Street Dog ,Pye-dog

Ancient Origin -Considered one of the oldest natural dog breeds in the world, with origins dating back thousands of years. Genetically similar to the early domesticated dogs — a “primitive” breed with minimal human interference.

Physical Appearance –Medium-sized with a wedge-shaped head, erect ears, and curled tail.Coat is short, dense, and typically tan, but can vary in shades (black, white, or brindle also seen).

Health & Immunity -Known for exceptional immunity and low maintenance health.Rarely suffers from genetic diseases common in purebred dogs.

Intelligence – Highly intelligent, capable of quick learning and adaptive problem-solving. Survives well in varied environments due to natural instincts and alertness.

Temperament –Loyal, alert, and friendly with their family.Naturally suspicious of strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.

Trainability – Very trainable with consistent, gentle guidance.Responds well to positive reinforcement; early socialization improves behavior further.

Adaptability – Extremely adaptable to both urban and rural settings. Thrives in tropical climates, but can adjust to moderate cold as well.

Energy & Exercise – High stamina and moderate to high energy needs.Enjoys walks, playtime, and interaction with humans; can get bored if under-stimulated.

Diet & Maintenance -Can thrive on simple diets; not fussy eaters.Low grooming needs due to short coat; occasional brushing is enough.

Loyalty & Bonding – Forms strong bonds with their humans and can be protective.Often observed to pick one person as their primary attachment.The Indian Pariah Dog is an ideal companion for those who appreciate low-maintenance, intelligent, and hardy pets.

BAKHARWAL/KASHMIRI SHEEP DOG

Origin – The Bakharwal Dog hails from the Himalayan regions of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh in northern India. It has been bred for centuries by the nomadic Gujjar and Bakarwal tribes.

Purpose: Traditionally used as a livestock guardian dog, it protects sheep, goats, and cattle from predators like wolves, leopards, and bears.

Physical Appearance: It is a large, muscular dog with a thick double coat suited for cold climates. Coat colors range from black, tan, and white to brindle.

Temperament: The breed is loyal, fearless, and protective, making it an excellent guard dog. It is naturally wary of strangers but deeply devoted to its family or owner.

Intelligence: Bakharwal dogs are intelligent and independent thinkers, which can make training a challenge unless handled with patience and consistency.

Exercise Needs: Being a working breed, it requires ample exercise and mental stimulation. It’s best suited to large open spaces rather than urban environments.

Health & Lifespan: Generally hardy and disease-resistant, the Bakharwal has a lifespan of about 10–14 years when properly cared for.

Cultural Significance: It is an integral part of Gujjar-Bakarwal tribal culture, often treated as a family member and sometimes even buried with rituals upon death.

Endangered Status: Due to modernization, conflict in the region, and loss of traditional lifestyles, the Bakharwal Dog is now considered a rare and endangered breed.

Legal Protection & Recognition: While not officially recognized by major international kennel clubs, there are efforts underway in India to preserve and promote this indigenous breed.