Jonangi

The Jonangi is a native dog of India, found mainly in Andhra Pradesh, in parts of Karnataka and along the east coast from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu. It has a short coat and was traditionally used for hunting, herding and guarding. It was once common around Kolleru Lake in the West Godavari and Krishna districts.

History

The Jonangi hunted small game, kept watch and, above all, herded ducks for the farmers around Kolleru Lake. When the area turned from duck farming to aquaculture, that work disappeared and the breed’s numbers fell sharply along the whole coast. Some fish farmers regarded the dogs as pests and killed many of them, which pushed the breed toward extinction. The survivors, living half wild, learned to catch fish for themselves.

Today the Jonangi is found mainly in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra and Goa. Interest in it has revived among farmers and breeders of Asil chickens, who use it to protect their stock. The major kennel clubs do not recognize it, but it is shown at local beach festivals in Andhra Pradesh.

Appearance

The coat is short and dense. It may be white, white with occasional black spots, black, gray or brindle. Both sexes stand 46 to 56 cm (18 to 22 in). Males weigh 25 to 39 kg (55 to 85 lb) and females 20 to 29 kg (45 to 65 lb).

Temperament

A Jonangi usually attaches itself to one person or one family. It is agile and can cover long distances with ease. Most are working dogs that guard property and livestock, and they live peaceably alongside poultry, goats, sheep and cattle. The breed has a habit of digging ditches to rest in. With early socialization and reward-based training, a Jonangi grows into a confident family dog.

Care and health

Females usually come into season twice a year and have litters of three to five puppies.

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