21 Native Indian Dog Breeds | ALL DOGS OF INDIA

Native Indian Dog Breeds

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Just Like there are varied dog breeds worldwide, India also has its own set of dog breeds. They come in a variety of colors, sizes, and body structures. Some look like wolves, some look like foxes; some look tiny but extremely smart, while certain breeds resemble a little black piglet. Some are so adorable that you would fall in love with them at first sight, and some are so ugly that you will keep them at your place to show off! But at the end of the day, when it comes to dogs, looks don’t matter. What matters is their personality.

Table of Contents

Native Indian Dog Breeds: Indian Mastiff (Bully Kutta)

The Indian Mastiff, also commonly known as the Bully Kutta (or Bully Kutti), is a fantastic dog breed. They originated in India and were used primarily for guarding farms against intruders and hunting. They are more than capable of doing this as they are very protective of their home and family, a trait that makes them excellent guard dogs. As their history states, initially, this breed was used for guarding farms. Even today, they have maintained their incredibly intimidating structure.

Bully Kutta translates to “heavily wrinkled dog.” The word “Bully” comes from the root word of the Hindustani and Punjabi languages, “Bohli,” which means heavily wrinkled.

Native Indian Dog Breeds Indian Mastiff

Basic InformationBully Kutta
GroupMiscellaneous dogs
Origin:India
Height Male:31 – 36 inches
Height Female:30 – 36 inches
Weight Male:70 – 90 kg
Weight Female:67 – 90 kg
Life Span:8 – 12 Years
Litter Size:5 to 10
Size:Giant dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Bakharwal

Bakharwal dogs, the mountain dogs, are working dogs found in the state of Jammu and Kashmir. The Bakarwal is a robust and sturdy dog with a medium to large frame matched by its smart nature. It’s a typical mountain dog with a thick coat of hair and a plumy tail, giving it a majestic appearance.

They are a hardworking, tough dog breed. The Bakaharwal Dog has been used to guard and protect the live cattle for decades by Gujjars and Bakerwal Castes.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationBakharwal Dog
GroupMolosser dogs
Origin:India
Height Male:24 – 30 inches
Height Female:24 – 30 inches
Weight Male:29 – 36 kg
Weight Female:29 – 36 kg
Life Span:10 – 12 Years
Litter Size:1 to 3
Size:Large dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Himalayan Mastiff (Tibetan Mastiff)

Tibetan Mastiffs also go by the name Tibetan Mastiff. They were originally used as guard dogs for livestock and property. The build is muscular, but the body is large and powerful. It has a deep, broad chest and well-muscled legs proportionate to the body.

Himalayan Mastiff eyes are almond-shaped and have dark rims, with a pale blue hue eye color. Ears are small, pricked-up ears. The head’s top has a reasonably straight face shape with an outline that can be curved or straight depending on the bloodline.

Native Indian Dog Breeds Himalayan Mastiff

Basic InformationHimalayan Mastiff
GroupWorking dog
Origin:India
Height Male:24 – 28 inches
Height Female:23 – 28 inches
Weight Male:64 – 78 kg
Weight Female:61 – 75 kg
Life Span:10 – 15 Years
Litter Size:5 to 10
Size:Large dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Chippiparai

The Chippiparai is a unique breed of dog from the state of Tamil Nadu in southern India. They have standard sighthound features with long legs, making them very fast.

They are also known for their strong stomachs and are used for working in all sorts of professions such as police work, forestry, farming, and racing. The Chippiparai is mostly found in the regions of Virudhunagar, Tirunelveli, Thenkasi, Thoothukudi, and Madurai.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationChippiparai
GroupHound dog
Origin:India
Height Male:23 – 25 inches
Height Female:22 – 25 inches
Weight Male:15 – 20 kg
Weight Female:13 – 17 kg
Life Span:12 – 15 Years
Litter Size:4 to 6
Size:Medium dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Kombai (Polygar dog)

Kombai are working dogs classified as either ‘Eastern Group’ by the Kennel Club (UK) or as a ‘Sighthound‘ by The United Kennel Club. The Kombai is an intelligent dog that is extremely sweet-natured and tolerant of children, especially if they know them. They also get along with other dogs. However, they become ferocious when they are around strangers or unfamiliar dogs.

The breed originated in the Theni district and is named after the town of Kombai. It subsequently spread throughout Southern India. The Indian army also uses it as they are very loyal to their master.

Native Indian Dog Breeds Kombai

Basic InformationCombai
GroupHound dog
Origin:India
Height Male:16 – 26 inches
Height Female:16 – 26 inches
Weight Male:18 – 34 kg
Weight Female:18 – 34 kg
Life Span:12 – 15 Years
Litter Size:3 to 8
Size:Medium dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Dhole

The dhole or Indian wild dog is a canid species native to South and Southeast Asia. They are found primarily in the Indian Subcontinent and the Indochinese Peninsula. Due to negative connotations of the common name dhole, researchers have started calling them Indian wild dogs.

Despite being its most elusive member, dholes have been called “the dog world’s aristocrats” in India. They are structurally similar to domesticated dogs but with a stronger jaw, prominent ears, longer legs. Other English names for the species include Asian wild Dog, Asiatic wild Dog, Indian wild Dog, whistling Dog, red Dog, and mountain wolf.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationDhole
Groupwild dog
Origin:Indian
Height Male:15 to 22 inches
Height Female:
Weight Male:10 to 25 kg
Weight Female:
Life Span:10 to 15 years
Litter Size:1 to 10
Size:small to medium

Native Indian Dog Breed: Indian Bull Terrier

There are many things that the Indian culture and the British collided during the Colonial Times. Among these is the world of dogs. Indian Bull Terrier comes from the UK but was later introduced to India. It is also known as the Indian gladiator and was introduced to India by the British Colonial Forces.

The dog is similar in looks to the old type English Bullterrier. The dog has always been valued as a fighter and as a watchdog.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationIndian Bull Terrier
GroupTerrier dog
Origin:United Kingdom
Height Male:18 – 23 inches
Height Female:18 – 23 inches
Weight Male:20 – 30 kg
Weight Female:20 – 30 kg
Life Span:10 – 14 Years
Litter Size:6 to 9
Size:Medium dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Indian Pariah Dog

The Indian Pariah dog is a landrace dog and is also considered a trashcan dog in some parts of the world. They are medium-sized lanky-looking dogs with an average height of 46cm to 64cm. It is a double-coated dog with coarse hair and fawn in color or reddish-brown.

An estimated 33.5 million dogs within India are spread across the country in different localities and communities. These stray or street dogs go by different names in various regions and communities of India, but they are known as the Indian Pariah dog in other parts of the world.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationIndian Pariah Dog
GroupMiscellaneous dogs
Origin:India
Height Male:20 – 26 inches
Height Female:18 – 26 inches
Weight Male:20 – 30 kg
Weight Female:15 – 30 kg
Life Span:10 – 14 Years
Litter Size:4 to 6
Size:Medium dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Gaddi Dog | Indian Shephard | Himalayan Sheepdog

The Gaddi dog is one of India’s native dog breeds. This breed originated in Himachal Pradesh and is now widespread throughout northern India’s hilly regions. It is named after the gaddi tribe, a tribe in the northwestern part of India that once served as watchdogs for the local people.

Initially, the tribesmen raised these dogs to work and protect their tents against predators and thieves. Today, this breed is used by some nomadic tribes to locate wandering livestock at night.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationGaddi Kutta
GroupMolosser dogs
Origin:India
Height Male:21 – 28 inches
Height Female:20 – 28 inches
Weight Male:37 – 44 kg
Weight Female:32 – 37 kg
Life Span:10 – 15 Years
Litter Size:5 to 12
Size:Giant dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Indian Spitz

As we are dealing with the dog breeds in India, here is presenting one of the more popular breeds, which are frequently mistaken as a fox by people. Yes, it’s true, you guessed right! We are talking about the Indian Spitz. It is well-known for its cheerful disposition and loyal nature.

The Indian Spitz is quite similar to a fox when it comes to appearance. They have a sleek, muscular body with deep brown fur. Additionally, they are known for their intelligence and natural ability to work together in packs. It is an excellent dog for families looking for an animal to share the home with them.

The Indian Spitz is quite intense and quick-witted when it comes to personality. They often have a sharp sense of humor and are playful and active. They are also known for being loyal and protective of their owners. It is an excellent dog for families.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationIndian Spitz
GroupWorking dog
Origin:India
Height Male:7 – 10 inches
Height Female:7 – 10 inches
Weight Male:5 – 7 kg
Weight Female:5 – 7 kg
Life Span:10 – 14 Years
Litter Size:1 to 5
Size:Small dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Jonangi

The Jonangi, also known as Kolleti Jagilam or Jonangi Jagilam, is an Indian dog breed, primarily found in Andhra Pradesh and other states such as Karnataka and all along the coast starting from West Bengal.

It is a stocky breed with a broad rounded head, medium to large ears, and dark eyes. The tail hangs down with a complete curve. It has a harsh coat that is dense and hard, thus needing less grooming. The Jonangi has a docile, calm, and patient nature with a strong protective instinct towards family.

Jonangi’s are very much attached to their master and can form deep bonds. They can become extremely protective towards the family and often serve as watchdogs. They enjoy being around people from all ages group, especially the children.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationJonangi
GroupMiscellaneous dogs
Origin:India
Height Male:16 – 21 inches
Height Female:16 – 21 inches
Weight Male:12 – 21 kg
Weight Female:12 – 21 kg
Life Span:10 – 14 Years
Litter Size:3 to 5
Size:Medium dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: kattakal or kattai dog

kattakal or kattai dog is a rare Indian dog breed with short legs and an alert and loyal personality. The word katai can be translated from the Tamil language as short, and indeed these dogs have short legs and relatively long bodies. Their legs might be short, but they are very strong, and these dogs have quite big paws.

It is an aggressive dog, obedient, friendly, trainable, and compact. These dogs are lovable by children; They are super intelligent with loud barking sounds.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic Informationkattakal or kattai dog
Group
Origin:
Height Male:10 to 14 inches
Height Female:
Weight Male:70 to 90 kg
Weight Female:
Life Span:10 to 20 years
Litter Size:1 to 8
Size:small stout

Native Indian Dog Breed: Kumaon Mastiff

The Kumaon Mastiff dog breed is a moderate in height, white or cream coated dog that originated from the mountainous areas of Uttarakhand in northern India. They are usually associated with herding animals and have a white or cream coat with brown, red, or both colors on their ears. The Kumaon Mastiff dog is believed to be one of India’s most popular dog breeds. It is one of the few purebred breeds found in India.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationKumaon Mastiff
Group
Origin:
Height Male:20 to 28 inches
Height Female:
Weight Male:60 to 80 kg
Weight Female:
Life Span:10 to 15 years
Litter Size:1 to 6
Size:Medium to Large

Native Indian Dog Breed: Lhasa Apso

Indian dogs have preserved their original abilities of hunting and defending, but due to the selection of smaller sizes, inbreeding by dog breeders, dogs of the Indian sub-continent are considerably smaller now than they used to be. There is, however, still a wide variety of pure and mixed breeds all across India. A few Indian dogs have also appeared as movie stars in Hollywood and Bollywood movies.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationLhasa Apso
GroupNon sporting dog
Origin:China
Height Male:9 – 12 inches
Height Female:9 – 12 inches
Weight Male:6 – 8 kg
Weight Female:6 – 8 kg
Life Span:12 – 14 Years
Litter Size:4 to 6
Size:Small dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Mahratta Hound

The Mahratta Hound has been popularized in India as the Mahratta Greyhound and is also sometimes called the Mahratta Hound. The Mahratta Hound is a breed of dog native to India.

It is a sighthound-type dog; like the Banjara Hound, it is bred and used for hunting by the nomadic Banjara of Maharashtra.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationMahratta Hound
Group
Origin:
Height Male:18 to 25 inches
Height Female:
Weight Male:10 to 25 kg
Weight Female:
Life Span:10 to 15 years
Litter Size:1 to 6
Size:Small to Medium

Native Indian Dog Breed: Mandai SheepHound

One of India’s best-known and most popular dog breeds is the Mandai Sheephound. This dog is known for its tall, broad-shouldered body and deep chestnut color. The sheep hound is also known for its good-boned broad legs and deep chest. In addition, the short coat comes in a variety of colors, including gray, brown, fawn, white, black, and piebald.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationMandai SheepHound
Group
Origin:
Height Male:20 to 24 inches
Height Female:
Weight Male:20 to 30 kg
Weight Female:
Life Span:10 to 15 years
Litter Size:1 to 6
Size:Small to Medium

Native Indian Dog Breed: Pandikona

Pandikonas were initially meant to be herding dogs, but nowadays, they make excellent guard dogs because of their aggressive nature. This unique breed is known for its impressive instinct for guarding and hunting. The Pandikona is fearless and shows a surprising ability even as puppies to be territorial.

They are very faithful and good with children though not overly playful. They are used for hunting wild boar, hare, and even rabbits. As mentioned earlier, the Pandikona is also known to kill snakes and rodents.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationPandikona
GroupCompanion dog
Origin:India
Height Male:18 – 26 inches
Height Female:18 – 26 inches
Weight Male:30 – 40 kg
Weight Female:30 – 40 kg
Life Span:10 – 12 Years
Litter Size:4 to 7
Size:Medium dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Pashmi Hound | Mudhol hound

The Pashmi Hound: A great running companion for the outdoors Man’s best friend is also man’s coolest friend. We believe that every dog that wags its tail is equally our friend! And among all these good dogs, Pashmi has one of the most stunning looks -both in terms of color and personality- that we could find.

Pashmi Hound is also known as Maratha Hound or Mudhol Hound. It is a breed of sighthound from India. Indian army, on various occasions, has expressed its desire to use Pashmi Hound for surveillance.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationMudhol Hound
GroupHound dog
Origin:India
Height Male:25 – 29 inches
Height Female:23 – 26 inches
Weight Male:20 – 27 kg
Weight Female:16 – 23 kg
Life Span:13 – 14 Years
Litter Size:6 to 9
Size:Large dog

Native Indian Dog Breed: Rajapalayam

Rajapalayam is one of the 24 Indian dog breeds in the country. Also known by the names “Polygar Hound” or “Shikkar Hound” or “Indian Ghost Hound,” it is considered as one of the many ancient Indian dogs. As one of its names suggests, this dog breed originated from Rajapalayam, located in Tamil Nadu.

The Rajapalayam is a pretty good-looking and graceful dog. It is a hunter dog, and it is also used as an estate guardian.

Native Indian Dog Breeds

Basic InformationRajapalayam
GroupHound dog
Origin:India
Height Male:25 – 30 inches
Height Female:25 – 30 inches
Weight Male:22 – 25 kg
Weight Female:22 – 25 kg
Life Span:10 – 12 Years
Litter Size:5 to 8
Size:Large dog