The Indian Dog Breeds You Need to Know About (Your Favourite Desi Dogs)

Rajapalayam: Devoted, Affectionate, Fearless

Rajapalayam is a majestic Indian breed that is known for its striking white coat and a tall, lean build. This breed originates from the town of Rajapalayam in Tamil Nadu, India, and was historically used for hunting wild boars and guarding properties. Interestingly, Rajapalayams have a unique trait where their nose turns pink when they are healthy and well-fed. They are also known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they can be wary of strangers and may require early socialization and training to prevent aggression toward unfamiliar people or animals. Despite their independent streak, Rajapalayams can be affectionate and loving towards their families, making them great pets for those who appreciate a strong and intelligent breed.

Mudhol Hound: Reserved, Loyal, Energetic

The Mudhol Hound, also known as Caravan Hound, is an ancient breed that originated in the town of Mudhol in Karnataka, India. This breed is known for its lean and muscular build, with a short, glossy coat that comes in shades of fawn, black, and cream. 

Mudhol Hounds are famous for their remarkable speed and agility, making them excellent hunters of small game such as hare and fox. Interestingly, Mudhol Hounds have a unique trait where their tails are long and curved like a sickle, adding to their distinct appearance. They are independent and intelligent dogs but can be reserved towards strangers, making early socialization and training essential. With proper training and care, Mudhol Hounds can be affectionate and loyal pets that are devoted to their families.

Kombai: Loyal, Courageous, Independent

Kombai, also known as Indian Bore Hound or Combai, is a sturdy and muscular breed that hails from the town of Kombai in Tamil Nadu, India. These dogs are known for their striking resemblance to the Indian Wolf, with their short, dense coat that comes in shades of red and tan. Kombais are highly intelligent, fiercely loyal, and extremely courageous dogs that were originally bred for hunting wild boars and other large game. They have a strong prey drive, which makes them ideal for hunting, but can be challenging to train and socialize. Kombais are protective of their family and territory and can be reserved towards strangers. They are highly energetic and require a lot of physical exercises and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.

Indian Spitz: Lively, Affectionate, Intelligent

Indian Spitz is small to a medium-sized breed of dog that is popular in India due to its adorable looks and charming personality. They have a thick, fluffy white coat that requires regular grooming and sheds moderately throughout the year. Interestingly, the Indian Spitz is not a descendant of the German Spitz, as their name suggests, but is believed to have originated from the Himalayan region. Indian Spitz dogs are intelligent, and affectionate, and make great companions for families and children. They have a lively and playful nature and love to entertain their owners with their antics. Indian Spitz dogs are adaptable to living in apartments, but require regular exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy. They are social dogs and love to be around people, making them excellent family pets.

Himalayan Sheepdog: Loyal, Protective, Intelligent

The Himalayan Sheepdog, also known as Bhutia, is a large and powerful dog breed from the Himalayan region. They were originally bred to guard livestock against predators in high altitudes. Himalayan Sheepdogs are known for their loyalty and protective nature towards their owners and their property. They are also highly intelligent and have a strong instinct to protect. Interestingly, they are one of the few dog breeds that can tolerate extremely cold weather due to their thick double coat. They are a great choice for people who live in cold and harsh environments and are looking for a protective and loyal companion.

Chippiparai: Independent, Brave, Affectionate

The Chippiparai is an ancient breed of sighthound that originated in Tamil Nadu. They are known for their slender build, short coat, and athletic ability, which makes them excellent hunting dogs. Chippiparais are also very intelligent and loyal, making them great companions for active families. They have a strong prey drive and are typically not recommended for households with small pets. They are known to be protective of their family and make excellent watchdogs. Despite their hunting heritage, Chippiparais have a calm and even temperament and are generally good with children.

Rampur Greyhound: Athletic, Intelligent, Loyal

The Rampur Greyhound is a breed of sighthound that originated in the Rampur region of India. This breed is highly valued for its speed, agility, and stamina, making it a popular choice for hunting and coursing. Rampur Greyhounds are known for their short, smooth coat that comes in a variety of colors including black, brindle, and fawn. They are also characterized by their lean, muscular build and long legs. In terms of temperament, the Rampur Greyhound is loyal, intelligent, and highly energetic. They require plenty of exercise and stimulation to keep them happy and healthy and are best suited for active owners who can provide them with plenty of opportunities to run and play.

Gaddi Kutta: Independent, Fearless, Intelligent

Gaddi Kutta, also known as Indian Panther Hound, is a large and muscular breed originating from the Himalayan region of India. They were originally bred as working dogs for guarding and herding livestock. One interesting fact about Gaddi Kuttas is that they are capable of hunting large game, such as wild boar and deer. They are loyal and protective of their family but can be wary of strangers. They require firm and consistent training from an experienced handler due to their natural tendency to be dominant. Gaddi Kuttas are not recommended for first-time dog owners or apartment living due to their large size and need for space to exercise.

Indian Pariah Dog: Intelligent, Adaptable, Loyal

The Indian Pariah Dog is an ancient breed that has been around for thousands of years. This breed is often seen as the Indian version of a street dog, but in reality, it is a highly intelligent and loyal companion. The Indian Pariah Dog is known for its strong survival instincts and adaptability, making it a great pet for those living in diverse environments. They are also highly trainable and make excellent watchdogs due to their alertness and protective nature. As a highly social breed, they love to be around people and require plenty of exercises and mental stimulation to stay happy and healthy. Some interesting facts about this breed include their ability to jump high and their strong sense of smell.

Sinhala Hound: Alert, Intelligent, Independent

Sinhala Hound is a rare and ancient dog breed that is believed to have originated in Sri Lanka. Also known as the Sri Lankan Hound, this breed is highly valued by the locals for its hunting skills and loyal companionship. Sinhala Hounds are medium-sized dogs that are well-muscled and have short, sleek coat that is usually reddish-brown or black. Sinhala Hounds are highly trainable but can also be stubborn at times. They make great guard dogs and are fiercely protective of their families.

Tangkhul Hui: Energetic, Loyal, Fearless

Tangkhul Hui is a rare dog breed that originates from Manipur, India. It is a medium-sized dog that was primarily used for hunting wild game in the hilly regions of Manipur. The breed is known for its high energy levels and endurance, making it an excellent hunting companion. Tangkhul Hui has a muscular build and a short coat that comes in a range of colors, including black, brown, and brindle. They are intelligent, loyal, and brave dogs that are fiercely protective of their families. Tangkhul Hui is also known for its high prey drive, so early socialisation and training are essential.

Jonangi: Loyal, Protective, Playful

Jonangi is an indigenous Indian dog breed, primarily found in the region of Andhra Pradesh. The breed is well-known for its hunting abilities, especially in waterfowl. Jonangi's name is derived from the Telugu word 'Jonangi' which means 'quick in water.' The breed is recognised for its stamina, agility, and obedience. These dogs have a muscular and athletic build and are known for their unique, high-pitched barking. These dogs require proper socialisation and training to help them develop into well-behaved pets.

Pandikona: Affectionate, Alert, Obedient

Pandikona is an ancient breed of dog that originated from the region of Andhra Pradesh in India. These dogs are known for their hardiness and are often used as hunting and guard dogs. They have a muscular and sturdy build with a short, smooth coat that is easy to maintain. Pandikona dogs are highly intelligent and loyal, making them excellent companions. They are also known to be protective and courageous, which makes them good watchdogs. Despite their protective nature, they are gentle with their family and love to play with children.

Kashmiri Sheep Dog (Bakharwal): Loyal, Protective, Brave

Bakharwal, also known as Kashmiri Bakharwal or Gujjar Dog, is a large-sized breed that originated in the Kashmir region of India. They were originally bred to protect and herd livestock in the Himalayan Mountains. This breed has a thick and dense coat, which helps them withstand harsh weather conditions. Bakharwals are known for their loyalty, bravery, and protectiveness toward their family. They are also intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times. Bakharwals require plenty of exercise and socialisation to prevent destructive behaviour, and they make great guard dogs due to their alertness and protective nature.

Indian mastiff (Bully Kutta): Loyal, Protective, Independent 

The Indian Mastiff, also known as the Bully Kutta or Pakistani Mastiff, is a large and powerful dog breed that has been used for hunting, guarding, and fighting in India and Pakistan for centuries. They are known for their muscular build, broad head, and impressive strength. Despite their intimidating appearance, they are known to be loyal, devoted, and protective of their families. They can be independent and strong-willed, so proper socialisation and training are important. They are not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their size and strength.