Indian Origins

So far the breeds the come from different countries seem to have a similar look to them. Obviously with larger countries the similarities should be lesser in scale, however that’s not always the case. To learn more about the breeds of Asia, be sure to also check out Chinese and Japanese breeds. Today we want to introduce you to the dog breeds of India.

Also called Mudhol Hound, Maratha Hound and Pashmi Hound, the Caravan Hound is an ancient breed native to the Deccan Plateau of India. Similar in lineage to the Saluki, their ancestors were introduced to India via trader caravans from Asia.

The origins of the Rajapalayam Hound are unknown, however it has been speculated that they were involved in development of the dalmatian breed. Once they were only found in the company of aristocracy and especially prized when born milky white. Sadly purebred animals are essentially extinct today, except in small pockets.

The Rampur Greyhound is native to the Rampur region of northern India and a member of the large sighthound family. This one tough dog as they were traditionally used to hunt large game, including lions, tigers & panthers. Today the breed straddles extinction and are incredibly rare outside of India.

More Breeds of the World

We hope you enjoyed meeting the breeds of India and that you’ll go check out the breeds of China and Japan and stay tuned to learn more about the dog breeds of Russia.

Japanese Origins

Looking at breeds by country is an interesting task, many of them clearly belong in their native land based on physical characteristics alone. The Japanese breeds are no different and there is quite a large list of them (& even some large sized breeds) for such a small place. If you haven’t already be sure to check out the Chinese breeds while you are here.

Also called Japanese Akita, Great Japanese Dog and Akita-ken the Akita Inu is the original breed from Japan. These great dogs are native to the region of Akita where they have lived unchanged for centuries. They are also the national dog of Japan and one of 7 breeds designated as a Natural Monument.

*It should be noted that there is also an Akita breed which is a descendant and largely considered American.

Also called Ainu Dog, Hokaidoken, Hokkaido, Ainu-ken and Ainu Inu the Hokkaido dog is rarely seen outside of Japan itself. The origins of this animal are a mystery and they were brought to Japan over 3,000 years ago on the heels of their namesake, the Ainu tribe. Over the years the tribal people & their dogs have migrated to Hokkaido where they live in relative isolation to continue their pure lineage.

Also called Japanese Spaniel or simply Chin, the Japanese Chin always been bred specifically as a lap dog & companion for nobility. Despite their name, the ancestors of this breed come from China, but were developed in Japan. Later in the 18th century they were introduced to Europe as a Japanese animal.

Also called Kai Dog, Kai Ken, Tora Inu and Tiger Dog the Kai Inu has been bred in Japan for centuries and is one of 7 breeds considered a Natural Treasure there. Developed in the district of Kai, this ancient spitz breed is one of the most ancient & purest breeds in Japan today.

Also called Kishu Ken the Kishu Inu is very rare outside of Japan where it has been a protected species since the early 20th century. The Kishu has been bred in the mountainous region of Kyushu in southern Japan for over 3,000 years. Traditionally used as a hunting dog, these animals have been bred in relative isolation and possess incredibly pure bloodlines.

Also called the Japanese Spitz the Nihon Supittsu is like many of the Japanese breeds in that their origins are unknown (however they are a relatively recent breed). Always pure white, it is thought that they share an ancestor with the Siberian Samoyed. Today their numbers have grown in Europe & North America while conversely they are not as popular in their native Japan.

Also called Japanese Small Dog & Shiba Dog the Shiba Inu is the smallest of the native Japanese breeds. Despite their smaller stature, they were traditionally prized for their hunting abilities. Today the Shiba is one of the most popular breeds in Japan and quickly making a name for themselves worldwide.

Also called Kochi-ken, Mikawa Inu and Japanese Wolfdog, the Shikokou is a native breed from Shikoku island (similar to the Shiba Inu). Rare outside Japan (and yet to be recognized by the AKC) this breed is one of the 7 breeds recognized as a Natural Monument of the country.

Also called Japanese Tosa, Tosa Ken & Japanese Mastiff, the Tosa Inu has been bred as a fighting dog in Japan for centuries. Created in the late 19th & early 20th century by crossing native fighting dogs with larger western breeds (like the Mastiff & Great Dane). Today they are considered a national treasure, although they are still used in illegal dog fighting in certain regions of Japan.

More Breeds of the World

We hope you’ve enjoyed meeting the many breeds of Japan – they are actually a pretty big bunch! If you liked these be sure to check out the Chinese breeds and stay tuned for breeds of India next time.

Chinese Origins

We’ve been laying breeds out by continent, but quickly realized that was going to have to change. Many countries have a variety of native breeds, so we’ve given the countries with a lot of breeds their own post. At the end we’ll compile a list that covers the entire Asian continent so readers can see them all.

The Chinese Crested dogs come in two types, hairless & powder puff – this breeds ancestors were actually thought to come from Africa (but a similar hairless type comes from North America). The hairless animals were picked up by the Chinese by trade ships to hunt vermin on the ship and re-named Chinese Crested dogs – a name that stuck.

The Chinese Imperial dog dates back to 700 AD and was first bred in the Imperial Palace where they were used as foot warmers to the Emperors. Seen as a symbol of status they were often also carried by the nobility in the sleeves of their robes.

Like many older breeds, the Chow Chow’s origins are a mystery, however some of the oldest known dog fossils are similar the Chow Chow in bone structure. Traditionally these big dogs were used as hunting partners, transportation in the form of carts & sleds, and for protection. Not only were their hides used to make clothing, but they were also bred for food.

Also called Peke & Peking Palasthund the Pekingese comes from the ancient city of Peking (now Beijing). Traditionally these animals were considered sacred and thought to drive away spirits. Due to their status they were only to be owned by royalty and people without noble rank were expected to bow to them.

Also called Carlin, Mops & Chinese Pug Dog, the Pug is one of the oldest known breeds and thought to have originated before 400 BC. Their origins are the topic of debate, however it is agreed that they share ancestors with the Pekingese. This breed later earned worldwide popularity during the 19th century and were often kept as royal pets.

As with many of the Chinese breeds, the Shar-Pei is very old – in fact pottery suggests they have been around since before 200 BC. They are physically similar to the Chow Chow, which which they clearly have an ancestor in common. Traditionally these animals were used as multi-purpose farm dogs, hunting dogs and for sport as fighting dogs.

More Countries On The Way

We hope you’ve enjoyed meeting the dog breeds of China and be sure to check back next time for the dog breeds of Japan.

Humble Origins

It’s interesting to see where different breeds come from and many native breeds have even grown to resemble the humans (& other animals) that have developed alongside them. Today we want to introduce breeds from the African continent, the place that spawned mankind is also home to a variety of canine breeds.

Thought to have come with the French to Madagascar, the Coton de Tulear is a bichon-type (probably interbred with local animals). They are a relatively rare breed, and generally only found in wealthy households in their native country. However they were re-introduced into Europe in the last 20 years and are growing in popularity.

Also called Tuareg Sloughi, this is a breed clearly well-suited to hot, desert climates, with its lean frame, long legs and regal bearing. The Azawakh comes from the Sehel region of Africa where they were traditionally bred by nomadic tribesmen for hunting, guarding livestock and companionship.

Also called Chien de l’Atlas, Atlas Sheepdog & Atlas Mountain Hound the Aidi comes from Morocco where it has been bred to protect both its owner and their property. This is thought to be a desert dog originating in the Sahara and while the name erroneously implies they are sheepdogs, these animals are not necessarily known for their talent as herders.

Also called Arabian Greyhound, Arabian Sighthound, Sloughi Moghrebi & Levrier Marocain the Sloughi is another breed that looks the desert part. Their origins are unknown, however they are thought to date before the 13th century in Morocco. Bred by nomadic Berber tribes, ownership of the Sloughi has traditionally been reserved for the likes of chiefs & kings.

Also called the Congo Dog, the Basenji is thought to come from ancient Egyptian animals – their likeness has been found in tombs that date back 5,000 years. Traditionally the Basenji was used by natives as a guide, a guard dog and a hunting partner. However their intelligent, alert nature and energetic spirit has made them a name worldwide.

Also called Hottentot Dog, African Dog, Unbwa Wa Ki-Shenzi, Bantu Dog, Khoikhoi Dog & Zulu Dog the Africanis comes from South Africa. While these animals are thought to be of ancient origin they are not a strict breed nor do they follow any set lineage. Africanis is more of a blanket name for non-specific dogs of Southern Africa.

As with many of the African breeds, the origins of the South African Boerboel are a mystery. However it is thought to have started with powerful Mastiff types brought by the Dutch, later to be influenced by the Bull Mastiff imported by De Beers in the 1930′s to guard diamond mines. Today they are a breed in their own right and considered native South Africa.

Also called the Lion Dog & African Lion Hound the Rhodesian Ridgeback comes from Zimbabwe and their ancestors come from Boer animals imported during the 16th & 17th centuries. Originally used by local tribesmen as hunting dogs, retrievers and guard dogs. It was later discovered that in packs they made excellent hunters and were bred to assist lion hunters.

Asian Dogs

That’s all we could find for the African dogs, (and this list is pretty small so we have to be missing some). Please let us know in the comments below if we’ve missed any dog breeds of African origin & stay tuned to meet the dogs of Asia.

Image from deanna_

A slim, lean dog the Saluki is a natural athlete and comes from the eastern Turkestan to Turkey. Meet another member of the ancient dog breeds of the world.

The History

This elegant and lean animal is thought to be related to the handsome Afghan Hound (another ancient breed). The royal dog of Egypt, the Saluki takes their name from the city of Saluki which no longer exists today. Their likeness appers on tomb paintings that date back to 2100 BC.

The Muslims considered them a gift from Allah so they were only offered as gifts & were never sold.

Global Popularity

This breed was introduced to England in the mid 19th century where it was primarily used to hunt hare. Since then they have spread to other parts of Europe and North America and have become a popular dog because of their regal bearing and sweet attitude. They were recognized by the AKC in 1929.

About the Breed

This is a tall, slender breed that is obviously built for speed & endurance. They are sweet, loyal and often become very attached to one person, although they can possess aloof tendencies. This breed is generally of submissive temperament and as long as they feel secure they are a pleasant & calm dog. It should be noted that they posses deep-rooted hunting instincts & while they are good around other dogs they are likely to chase (or worse) other animals.

Traditionally they were used as hunting dogs (hence the strong instinct to hunt prey) and also for racing.

Saluki animals with a patch of white on their forehead are thought to have been ‘kissed by Allah’ making them especially hardy & fast.

Interesting Fact

Of all of the ancient dog breeds we’ve visited so far, the Saluki is thought to be one of the oldest pure breeds in the world. In fact, recent Sumerian excavations that date back to 6,000 or 7,000 BC have unearthed dog carvings that bear a physical resemblance to the regal Saluki.

Other Names

Gazelle Hound | Arabian Hound | Persian Greyhound | Tanji | Persian Sighthound

Old Guys of the Dog World

We hope you enjoyed this quick look at one of the ancient dog breeds of the world. Stay tuned, because we’ll be getting to know more of the in the coming weeks.

Image from deanna_

The Pekingese takes its name from the ancient city of Peking & they were almost considered royalty themselves. Meet another member of the ancient dog breeds of the world.

The History

This compact, stocky little breed comes from what is today called Beijing in China & they were sacred among the people as they were thought to drive away evil spirits. Because of this serious job they were only owned by royalty & those who didn’t possess noble rank were expected to bow in their presence.

These little dogs were so highly thought of that theft of a Pekingese dog was punishable by death.

Global Popularity

Late in the 19th century the British invaded the Chinese Imperial Palace at which point the Chinese guards were ordered to kill the dogs lest they fall into the hands of the Brits. Five of the little guys survived and were given as a gift to Queen Victoria, & these five dogs are the foundation for the modern Pekingese breed. By 1909 they had made their way to the states and were recognized by the AKC.

About the Breed

This is a small, well-balanced breed with a large head and a flat face. They are affectionate, brave & sensitive but as with many small dogs should never be afforded alpha status or they can become difficult. They also have a healthy appetite so special care should be taken to ensure they don’t become overweight. Traditionally they were solely used as guardians & lap dogs by royalty.

Traditionally, when their master died, the Pekingese was sacrificed so they could continue their protection into the afterlife.

Interesting Fact

This whole post is filled with interesting facts about this cute little breed. However the one that really gets us is that the Chinese royalty would rather have seen all of the dogs dead than spread around the world as they are today. That must still irk them to this day…

Other Names

Peke | Peking Palasthund

Old Guys of the Dog World

We hope you enjoyed this quick look at one of the ancient dog breeds of the world. Stay tuned, because we’ll be getting to know more of the in the coming weeks.

Image from Dzoker

The first small ancient dog we have explored, the Lhasa Apso of today is a popular lap (& show) dog worldwide. Meet another member of the ancient dog breeds of the world.

The History

This squat little breed originated in the Himalayan Mountains of Tibet centuries ago & they are named for the city of Lhasa. Initially their breeding was limited to holy men & nobles and they were used as watchdogs in temples & religious centers.

These small animals were considered sacred by the Tibetan people as it was believed that when their master died his soul entered the Lhasa Apso’s earthly body.

Global Popularity

For many years the dogs were held in such high regard that their breed was kept closely guarded making them difficult to purchase. In 1933 C. Suydam Cutting brought the first Lhasas to the US after receiving them as gifts from the Dali Lama. They caught on in popularity quickly and were recognized by the AKC in 1935.

About the Breed

This is a small, tough little animal (much tougher than the combed show dogs would have you believe). They are loyal to their masters & quite affectionate, but intelligent enough to have an assertive alpha attitude. This attitude can become problematic should they be indulged (which they often are due to their size). Traditionally they were used primarily as a guard dog for religious centers & pets for the wealthy.

These dogs not only carried the souls of their dead masters, but they were also thought to bring them good luck in life.

Interesting Fact

Lhasa Apsa animals are incredibly stealth movers and are known to sneak up even on their owners. That combined with their keen sense of hearing & protective attitude makes them exceptional watch dogs.

Other Names

Tibetan Apso

Old Guys of the Dog World

We hope you enjoyed this quick look at one of the ancient dog breeds of the world. Stay tuned, because we’ll be getting to know more of the in the coming weeks.

Click for a Larger View

When it comes to the dog world, there is a lot of terminology to learn & understand. Everything from head & face terms, dog coat types, & ear shape is subject to a long list of types & terminology.

Here are some basic definitions to dog leg terminology, we’ve separated them by front & hind end & provided the cheatsheet (click the image for a larger view) to the right for quick visual reference.

Forequarter Terms

The terms below refer to the front end of the dog or forequarters.

Bowed Front
When the forelegs curve out between the elbows & pasterns.

Down in Pastern
When the pastern is weak & overly sloped.

East-West Front
When the feet point out and away from each other.

Fiddle Front
When an animal with an east-west front also has bowed feet, giving the impression of a fiddle.

Lay Back
The angle that the shoulders are set on the animal’s body.

Knuckled Over
When pastern is steep or has a reverse slope.

Loaded Shoulders
When the forequarters are overly lumpy or muscled.

Out at Elbow
When the elbow joint sticks out further than the ribcage.

Returned
When the upper arm is set back under the animal’s body.

Shoulder Angulation
The angle formed between the humerus & the scapula.

Toed-in Front
When the feet point inward, towards each other.

Hindquarter Terms

The following terms refer to the rear end of the dog or hindquarter.

Bandy-Legged
When the hindquarters are wide & bowed.

Cow-Hocked
When the hocks point towards each other (which generally results in the feet pointing outward).

Lower Thigh
The area from the stifle to the hock – sometimes called the second thigh.

Sickle-Hocked
An over-angulation of the hock joint which makes it difficult for the animal to straighten the joint while moving.

Well Let-Down
When an animal has short hocks.

Probably More To Come

We have yet to do a final check in the vaults for more canine terminology ideas & we’re pretty sure there will be more to share. As we find them we’ll let you know, but until then be sure to learn more about dog basics, hair types & tail types.

Image from Dzoker

A large, stocky dog with a big fluff of hair, the Chow Chow’s origins are so old that they are a mystery. Meet another member of the ancient dog breeds of the world.

The History

The oldest known dog fossils date back several million years and bear a striking resemblance to the Chow Chow today. Pictures similar to this breed have been found on Chinese pottery dating back to 206 BC and documentation of their type goes back to the 11th century BC. They may come form similar origins as the Shar-Pei as they share some physical characteristics.

This breed is unique in that their hind legs are almost totally straight (giving them a rather lilted looking walk) and their tongues are a shade of purple or blue.

Global Popularity

The Chow Chow was brought to England in the late 19th century and since then has earned itself worldwide popularity. Found in many European countries as well as North America, their regal looks, aloof, catlike personality & intensely territorial attitude has made them a favorite as a family guard dog.

About the Breed

A large, robust dog the Chow Chow possesses a thick double coat of hair ideally suited for colder climates. These are independent and dominant animals and require a firm hand and natural alpha owners. They are a strong-willed breed that will constantly challenge authority, but once they’ve accepted leadership they are protective & extremely loyal.

It should be noted that they possess aggressive tendencies and must be socialized very early in life, but when raised & handled properly they make great pets. Traditionally they were used for hunting, herding, pulling carts or sleds, guarding homes & boats and (sadly for Westerners) bred for their fur and their meat, which is a delicacy in China to this day.

Their name was probably given to them by the English when they were imported, as Chow Chow was the term used to describe the various items that came back from the Far East.

Interesting Fact

The Chow Chow’s ancient ancestors may date back millions of years to when the canine and the ursine (bear) carnivore groups split. It is thought that they carry bear-like characteristics because they are the closest dog ancestors to the bear. Their straight hind legs, dark tongue & nose, square muzzle and squat body are all physical indications that provide credence to that theory.

Old Guys of the Dog World

We hope you enjoyed this quick look at one of the ancient dog breeds of the world. Stay tuned, because we’ll be getting to know more of the in the coming weeks.

Bringing home a puppy is one of the most exciting events in your, and the puppy’s, life. You’re introducing a new family member into your circle, and it can be a daunting task once you realize that you now are responsible for turning this tiny ball of fur into a well-behaved adult dog. 

Too Cute

No one can argue – puppies are adorable. They are gangly and uncoordinated, like to chew on everything, and are easily excited. The problem is, all that jumping, barking, and nipping that is cute now will be annoying and possibly dangerous in the future. 

It’s important to start training your puppy to behave him- or herself as early as possible. Of course, puppies have the attention span of, well, a small animal, and training might seem like a futile effort. But with some understanding and a lot of patience on your part, it’s not impossible. 

Tip #1

Discourage bad behavior immediately. You don’t have to yell at your puppy every time it jumps up on you, gets on the furniture, or barks at the cat, but never ever encourage that behavior and you’ll be starting out on the right path. Letting your puppy know the boundaries immediately will lead to less confusion later on when the training really begins. 

Tip #2

Keep calm. Yes, it’s super exciting that you are the proud new owner of the most adorable dog in the world, but squealing in a high-pitched voice, running around, playing rough, and allowing nipping will only lead to the most misbehaved dog in the world. Keep calm as you play (this doesn’t mean not playing at all) and never encourage aggressive behavior, especially with rough tug-of-war games or “sic ‘em” behavior.

Tip #3

A bored puppy is a misbehaving puppy. Most digging, chewing, and barking behavior comes from puppies (and adult dogs) being left alone for too long, ignored, or not enough exercise. Walk your puppy first thing in the morning, even if it is only a quick jaunt around the block – this is especially important if you work all day and the puppy needs to be locked up or alone for eight or more hours. Puppies are teething, so provide them with sturdy chew toys – and only allow them to use these for chewing, or you may find yourself missing shoes.

Tip #4

EXERCISE!  This has already been briefly mentioned, but it is worth repeating.  So many bad canine behaviors come from pent up energy being released in unacceptable ways.  Daily walks are key – in the wild, packs of dogs roam all day long, and even Chihuahuas have this built-in need.  For high-energy working dogs, two walks a day may be necessary.    

Tip #5

Make the introductions.  Be sure your puppy meets all your friends, your friend’s dogs, and all the family members it will regularly come in contact with.  Many puppies get excited by new faces, and depriving them of interactions will lead to a frightened, possibly dangerous, dog later on in life.  Also make sure your puppy meets lots of strangers and strange dogs (in safe situations, of course).  A socialized dog is a happy dog. 

A Helpful Hand

Hopefully these easy tips and tricks will help you raise a happy, well-adjusted puppy.  Be sure you do lots of research before you get a puppy to make sure you pick the right breed, have all the right materials, etc.  If you’re still having problems, don’t be afraid to ask for help or do further research – your puppy will thank you for it!