8 amazing Indian dog breeds that everyone should know

There are so many dog breeds in India than one can imagine. From villages to the urban cities, Indian dogs are everywhere. These dogs have their own unique characteristics and possess distinct features and behavioral traits. While dog owners often prefer foreign dog breeds for their origin and their so-called exotic features, Indian native dogs, who are more compatible with the Indian climate and the local lifestyle, are much neglected. Many a times, people cannot differentiate between the dogs or they do not know about the varied ranges of Indian dog breeds. So, if you are a pet-lover and want to know more about the possible pets you can have, then here are some of the most exotic Indian dog breeds you can welcome into your homes.

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Mudhol Hound, also known as ‘Caravan hound’, is an Indian dog breed that has similar features as the sighthounds or gaze hounds. Known for their hunting and guarding skills, Mudhol Hounds are found in and around Mudhol town of Karnataka.

Indian pariah dogs are also known as ‘South Asian pye dog’ and ‘Desi Dog’. One of the most social and well-behaved animals, pariah dogs are the first breed of dogs native to India. They are extremely alert and highly intelligent, popularly known for their ability to adapt and adjust to their natural and cultural environment.

Combai is an Indian dog breed mostly found in the foothills of Western Ghats of South India. Almost at the brink of extinction, this dog breed have now been revived back in the state of Tamil Nadu by dog lovers and animal supporters. These dogs are known for being extremely aggressive but loyal.

Kanni Dogs are a rare indigenous South Indian sighthound breed of dog found in the state of Tamil Nadu. Known for their speed, Kanni dog breeds are a kind of sighthound that prey not by scent but by sight and their agility. Therefore, the breed is used mainly for coursing game.

Majorly found in Andhra Pradesh and also in some parts of Karnataka and all along the east coast from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu. This breed of dog is not only used for hunting purposes but also for herding. They are identified with their short and smooth hair that makes them distinct from other dog breeds.

Pandikona are hunting dog found in Kurnool district of Andhra Pradesh and the state of Madhya Pradesh. A medium-sized sighthound, this breed is associated with the shepherd families and can easily adapt to harsh climatic conditions of Kurnool district.

Rajapalayam dogs, popularly known as a Poligar hound, found in the town of Rajapalayam in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. These dogs are known for their association with royalty and aristocracy in South India.

A native of the Rampur region of North India, the Rampur greyhound is a large member of the sighthound family. One of the largest Indian dogs with powerful built and strong jaws, they were highly favoured by the Maharajahs for jackal control and to hunt lions, tigers, leopards, and panthers.