DOG BREEDS
7 min
Eight Native Indian Dog Breeds You Didn’t Know Existed!
Did you know there’s more to Indian dogs than our indies? Discover 8 incredible Indian dog breeds—each with a rich history and unique story waiting to be told!
Table of contents
In a country where foreign dog breeds often dominate the spotlight, India's remarkable Indian dog breeds quietly remain in the background, despite their deep-rooted connections to our communities. As we delve into their history, it becomes clear that the story of humans in this country is incomplete without acknowledging the loyal Indian dogs that have stood by their side for centuries.
According to S. Theodore Bhaskaran’s The Book of Indian Dogs, India is home to around 25 native Indian dog breeds. Whether they come from the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas or the sun-kissed plains of Tamil Nadu, these Indian-origin dog breeds have not only adapted to diverse climates but also woven themselves into the cultural fabric of their regions. Yet, many remain largely unknown to the wider public.
According to S. Theodore Bhaskaran’s The Book of Indian Dogs, India is home to around 25 native Indian dog breeds. Whether they come from the snow-covered peaks of the Himalayas or the sun-kissed plains of Tamil Nadu, these Indian-origin dog breeds have not only adapted to diverse climates but also woven themselves into the cultural fabric of their regions. Yet, many remain largely unknown to the wider public.
Image courtesy: mintageworld
To celebrate our country's rich canine heritage, postage stamps featuring four remarkable Indian dog breeds—Mudhol Hound, Rajapalyam, Chippiparai, and Himalayan Sheepdog—were released in 2005. However, their significance goes beyond stamps—these Indian dogs are symbols of India’s rich heritage.
In this article, we’ll uncover the stories of eight extraordinary Indian dog breeds, each with its unique history and purpose, offering a glimpse into their invaluable roles in shaping the nation’s past and present.
In this article, we’ll uncover the stories of eight extraordinary Indian dog breeds, each with its unique history and purpose, offering a glimpse into their invaluable roles in shaping the nation’s past and present.
Image courtesy: Dananjii on Wikimedia commons
1) Mudhol Hound
The Mudhol Hound, an exceptional example of an Indian dog breed, is named after the small town of Mudhol in Karnataka's Bagalkot district, where the breed originated. It is believed that Shrimant Raja Maloji Ghorpade of Mudhol developed this breed by crossing greyhounds with local hunting dogs in his kennel in the late 19th century.
The Mudhol Hound weighs around 30 kg and stands up to 70 cm tall, showcasing a sleek, athletic build that enhances its hunting abilities. Originally used by locals for hunting, this breed is known for its protective nature, making it an excellent guardian of livestock and property. Their coat is predominantly tan, but some Mudhols can be found with white coats with black or tan patches.
The Canine Research and Information Centre, Thimmapur, is dedicated to conserving this Indian dog breed while also providing a livelihood to farmers who have preserved the breed for generations. Mudhols are one of the first Indian dogs to be accepted into the canine unit of the Indian Army.
The Mudhol Hound weighs around 30 kg and stands up to 70 cm tall, showcasing a sleek, athletic build that enhances its hunting abilities. Originally used by locals for hunting, this breed is known for its protective nature, making it an excellent guardian of livestock and property. Their coat is predominantly tan, but some Mudhols can be found with white coats with black or tan patches.
The Canine Research and Information Centre, Thimmapur, is dedicated to conserving this Indian dog breed while also providing a livelihood to farmers who have preserved the breed for generations. Mudhols are one of the first Indian dogs to be accepted into the canine unit of the Indian Army.
Image courtesy: Sairam on wikimedia commons
2) Rajapalayam
The Rajapalayam, one of the notable Indian dog breeds, takes its name from the town of Rajapalayam in Tamil Nadu, recognized as the breed's birthplace. Records of these Indian dogs date back to at least the 16th or 17th century. Initially, locals used them to guard crops and livestock, but they also excelled as hunters, serving as both bay dogs and catch dogs capable of tracking large animals such as wild boars by scent. During the Polygar Wars against the British East India Company, Rajapalayams played a significant role by nipping at and disarming enemy horses.
Rajapalayam dogs are characterised by their pink noses, loose upper lips, and wrinkled throats. Typically measuring 65 cm and weighing around 35 kg, they are larger and heavier-boned than most sighthounds. Their graceful, double-suspension gait resembles that of a thoroughbred horse. The coat is primarily milk white, often with faint brown markings.
Today, Rajapalayams are recognized for their exceptional abilities, and the Indian Army has begun training them for various roles. With their strength, grace, and loyalty, they continue to be valued as guardians and companions, and in recognition of their cultural importance, they were one of the Indian dog breeds to be featured on Indian postal stamps, issued in 2005.
Rajapalayam dogs are characterised by their pink noses, loose upper lips, and wrinkled throats. Typically measuring 65 cm and weighing around 35 kg, they are larger and heavier-boned than most sighthounds. Their graceful, double-suspension gait resembles that of a thoroughbred horse. The coat is primarily milk white, often with faint brown markings.
Today, Rajapalayams are recognized for their exceptional abilities, and the Indian Army has begun training them for various roles. With their strength, grace, and loyalty, they continue to be valued as guardians and companions, and in recognition of their cultural importance, they were one of the Indian dog breeds to be featured on Indian postal stamps, issued in 2005.
Image courtesy: Sakthiramu on Wikimedia Commons
3) The Himalayan Sheepdog (Bhotia kukkur)
The Bhotia, or Himalayan Sheepdog, is native to the foothills of Ladakh and Nepal, sharing its genetic lineage with the slightly larger Tibetan Mastiff. They were primarily bred to guard livestock such as yaks and sheep from predators, as well as property. Given the nature of their job, they are known for sleeping most of the day while vigilantly guarding at night. In certain parts of Tehri Garhwal in Uttarakhand, the Bhotia is used to help with hunting.
With a sturdy build, this Himalayan Sheepdog typically stands about 60 cm tall and weighs between 30 and 40 kg. Their dark double coat features a longer outer layer and a short, dense undercoat, providing essential protection against the harsh mountain climate. They come in shades of black and brown. Their fluffy, curled tail enhances their striking appearance, while their folded ears hang gracefully at the sides.
During the Kargil War, two Himalayan Sheepdogs, Pisti and Pista, bravely navigated through Pakistani gunfire to deliver letters and medicines to troops trapped at the perilous Siachen Post.
With a sturdy build, this Himalayan Sheepdog typically stands about 60 cm tall and weighs between 30 and 40 kg. Their dark double coat features a longer outer layer and a short, dense undercoat, providing essential protection against the harsh mountain climate. They come in shades of black and brown. Their fluffy, curled tail enhances their striking appearance, while their folded ears hang gracefully at the sides.
During the Kargil War, two Himalayan Sheepdogs, Pisti and Pista, bravely navigated through Pakistani gunfire to deliver letters and medicines to troops trapped at the perilous Siachen Post.
Image courtesy: P. Marlow on Wikimedia commons
4) Rampur Hound
The Rampur Hound, originating from the Rampur region of Uttar Pradesh, India, is a breed that embodies both grace and strength. For nearly 300 years, these Indian dogs have been favourites among the local nobility. Bred primarily as hunting companions, they excel in tracking and chasing game such as deer and boar over long distances. Their lineage likely combines English Greyhound with various local breeds.
Rampur Hounds are large and lean, typically standing between 60 and 70 cm tall and weighing around 35 kg. With long legs, they exhibit impressive speed and agility. Their short, smooth coats come in various colours, including fawn, brindle, and rare black. A distinctive feature is their long, narrow heads and expressive eyes, giving them an elegant appearance.
Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, Rampur Hounds make excellent companions and guardians. Yet surprisingly several owners report that they are rather slow to bark. Though independent, they thrive on companionship and need regular exercise to stay healthy, remaining valued as both hunters and loyal family members.
Rampur Hounds are large and lean, typically standing between 60 and 70 cm tall and weighing around 35 kg. With long legs, they exhibit impressive speed and agility. Their short, smooth coats come in various colours, including fawn, brindle, and rare black. A distinctive feature is their long, narrow heads and expressive eyes, giving them an elegant appearance.
Known for their loyalty and protective instincts, Rampur Hounds make excellent companions and guardians. Yet surprisingly several owners report that they are rather slow to bark. Though independent, they thrive on companionship and need regular exercise to stay healthy, remaining valued as both hunters and loyal family members.
Image courtesy: Sairam on Wikimedia commons
5) Kombai
The Kombai is a native breed from Tamil Nadu, historically prized by zamindars for protection and occasional big-game hunting. Known for its exceptional guarding abilities, the Kombai has even been recorded defending entire forts against the Britishers. quite fiercely.
With a lean, muscular build, these medium-sized Indian dogs typically weigh 20 to 30 kg and stand 38 to 80 cm tall. Their coat is tan with a distinctive black muzzle, while their partially droopy ears and long, slim tail add to their unique appearance. Kombai aficionados consider a dorsal line of fur growing in the opposite direction down the back as a mark of purity.
Although not traditionally a hunting dog, it earned the nickname "bear hound" for its ability to confront large animals. Despite being strong and robust, Kombais are not excessive barkers and mature later than most breeds. There's also an unverified theory that they may descend from a red wild dog native to Tamil Nadu.
With a lean, muscular build, these medium-sized Indian dogs typically weigh 20 to 30 kg and stand 38 to 80 cm tall. Their coat is tan with a distinctive black muzzle, while their partially droopy ears and long, slim tail add to their unique appearance. Kombai aficionados consider a dorsal line of fur growing in the opposite direction down the back as a mark of purity.
Although not traditionally a hunting dog, it earned the nickname "bear hound" for its ability to confront large animals. Despite being strong and robust, Kombais are not excessive barkers and mature later than most breeds. There's also an unverified theory that they may descend from a red wild dog native to Tamil Nadu.
Image courtesy: dooziedog.com
6) Kaikadi Dogs
The Kaikadi are a nomadic tribe found in Maharashtra and parts of Gujarat, primarily known for their work as stonemasons. They specialize in gathering herbs and creating traditional medicines. The Indian dogs they raise, called Kaikadi dogs, play a vital role in their lifestyle. These dogs typically hunt in packs for small game, including monkeys, rats, monitor lizards, mongooses, and squirrels.
Kaikadi dogs are small, slender sighthounds, typically standing around 40 cm tall and weighing approximately 20 kilograms. They are distinguished by their long, thin legs, powerful thighs, and hock joints, all of which contribute to their remarkable speed. Their physique features a long, narrow head with prominent eyes and erect ears, giving them an alert and expressive appearance. Their short coat comes in various colours, with white, tan, and black being the most prevalent.
Known for their natural suspicion of strangers, these Indian dogs serve as effective watchdogs during the night. Best suited for expansive open areas, Kaikadi dogs thrive in rural, open spaces rather than urban settings and may resemble whippets in appearance.
Kaikadi dogs are small, slender sighthounds, typically standing around 40 cm tall and weighing approximately 20 kilograms. They are distinguished by their long, thin legs, powerful thighs, and hock joints, all of which contribute to their remarkable speed. Their physique features a long, narrow head with prominent eyes and erect ears, giving them an alert and expressive appearance. Their short coat comes in various colours, with white, tan, and black being the most prevalent.
Known for their natural suspicion of strangers, these Indian dogs serve as effective watchdogs during the night. Best suited for expansive open areas, Kaikadi dogs thrive in rural, open spaces rather than urban settings and may resemble whippets in appearance.
Image courtesy: Robert Olivia on Wikimedia commons
7) Gull Terrier
The Gull Terrier is a rare and unique breed, predominantly found in the Punjab regions of India and Pakistan. This Indian dog breed was created during the colonial era by crossing the English Bull Terrier with local dogs. This combination produced a dog well-suited for blood sports such as bull baiting and dog fighting in India. After blood sports were banned across the British Empire, these dogs transitioned into reliable guard dogs.
Gull Terriers are medium-sized Molosser dogs, known for their tall stature, broad chest, and muscular legs. They typically stand 18-22 inches tall and weigh around 25 kg. The coat is usually white, with dark markings on the face and body, while their large, erect ears contribute to their alert and fearless appearance. Despite their strong and imposing build, they are primarily valued for their guarding abilities today.
Gull Terriers are medium-sized Molosser dogs, known for their tall stature, broad chest, and muscular legs. They typically stand 18-22 inches tall and weigh around 25 kg. The coat is usually white, with dark markings on the face and body, while their large, erect ears contribute to their alert and fearless appearance. Despite their strong and imposing build, they are primarily valued for their guarding abilities today.
Image courtesy: uzumakidigg on wikimedia commons
8) Indian Spitz
The Indian Spitz is one of the most beloved pets in India today. Often mistaken for the Pomeranian, this breed is actually a cross between the German Spitz brought by the British and local Indian dogs, designed to thrive in the Indian climate. Like their ancestors, Indian Spitz dogs primarily serve as companion animals.
Slightly larger than Pomeranians, Indian Spitz dogs typically stand around 40 cm tall and weigh about 15 kg, though variations do exist. Their iconic milky white double coat is a defining characteristic of the breed. The distinct eyes and pointy, fox-like ears give them an amiable expression. Their fluffy tails feature a slight curl at the end, adding to their charm.
The breed experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to Redo, the dog actor who played ‘Tuffy’ in the 1994 Bollywood romantic comedy Hum Aapke Hain Kaun.
For centuries, Indian dog breeds are more than companions—they’re a vibrant part of our history and culture. From guarding livestock in the Himalayas to protecting homes in Tamil Nadu, these Indian dogs have stood by us for centuries. It’s time they stepped out of the shadows and into the spotlight, celebrated for their loyalty, strength, and adaptability. Let’s embrace and preserve the incredible legacy of Indian-origin dog breeds.
Happy Pet Parenting!
Slightly larger than Pomeranians, Indian Spitz dogs typically stand around 40 cm tall and weigh about 15 kg, though variations do exist. Their iconic milky white double coat is a defining characteristic of the breed. The distinct eyes and pointy, fox-like ears give them an amiable expression. Their fluffy tails feature a slight curl at the end, adding to their charm.
The breed experienced a resurgence in popularity thanks to Redo, the dog actor who played ‘Tuffy’ in the 1994 Bollywood romantic comedy Hum Aapke Hain Kaun.
For centuries, Indian dog breeds are more than companions—they’re a vibrant part of our history and culture. From guarding livestock in the Himalayas to protecting homes in Tamil Nadu, these Indian dogs have stood by us for centuries. It’s time they stepped out of the shadows and into the spotlight, celebrated for their loyalty, strength, and adaptability. Let’s embrace and preserve the incredible legacy of Indian-origin dog breeds.
Happy Pet Parenting!
Keywords:
indian dog breeds,
indian dogs,
indian-origin dog breeds
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