Chippiparai

The Chippiparai is a sighthound from the state of Tamil Nadu in southern India. It was traditionally used to hunt small game, mainly hare.

History

The breed is thought to descend from Salukis, and in the past it was kept by royalty in southern India. Its name comes from the village of Sippipparai in Vembakottai Taluk, in Virudhunagar District. Today it is most often found around Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Thenkasi, Thoothukudi and Madurai.

Appearance

The Chippiparai has the streamlined look typical of a sighthound: long legs and a lean, lithe frame made for speed. It averages 61 cm at the withers, with males around 63 cm and females around 56 cm. The coat is short. Most dogs are white, though other colors are found, including fawn, red, gray brindle, and fawn or brindle with white.

Temperament

This is a hardy dog with a reputation for choosing a single master, to the point of refusing food and petting from anyone but its handler. It is often described as the most intelligent and biddable of India’s native breeds, and for that reason it has been trained successfully as a police dog.

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