Most Misidentified Indian Dog Breeds: Commonly Confused Native Dogs

The Indian Pariah Dog is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world; basically, the dogs that can be found in India today are the direct descendants of the ones that lived there thousands of years ago. But unfortunately, these days, people tend to put them into the category of 'strays' only and thereby concentrate less on their distinct qualities.
Identification tips:

• Wedge-shaped head, which is very noticeable
• Ears are upright and pointed
• The tail is curved and bushy
• Medium-sized with short hair

Why the Confusion?
Pariah dogs resemble street dogs in that most stray populations have been interbred with Pariah genes. Nevertheless, in contrast to the mixed-breed strays, the Pariah Dog is a pure and naturally developed breed that is characterized by being smart, vigilant, and maintenance-friendly.
The Rajapalayam is an impressive dog of the Tamil Nadu region, which was customarily royal-pedigree-bred to hunt wild boars and also to act as palace security. Its attractive slim figure makes the first association of the dog be with the Greyhound, a dog that is well-known for its racing career.
Identification tips:

• The fur of Rajapalayam is always quite white.
• Pink nose and amber/golden eyes.
• More robust, with a muscular frame than Greyhounds.

Why the Confusion?
The two breeds are both lean and toned, but unlike Greyhounds that can be of different colours and were designed for speed, Rajapalayams are an Indian dog breed that have neither a match in their loyalty nor in their guarding instincts.
The Mudhol Hound, or Caravan Hound as it is called by the locals, is a breed of sighthound from India, which has been referred to as the “desi” sighthound because of its remarkable stamina and speed; however, due to its graceful figure, it is not uncommon that it is confused with the Saluki, a Middle-Eastern breed of dog.
Identification tips:

• The Mudhol Hounds' skull is comparatively narrower and they have more defined muscles
• Salukis are tall and thin and have a somewhat more elegant appearance
• Mudhols have very prominent eyes and their legs are long, which is suitable for running a long distance

Why the Confusion?
If we look at both animals, we can say that they are both slender sighthounds, but the Saluki is a noble and famous breed of the Arab world, where it is bred and kept as a prize dog, whereas the Mudhol is still a neglected Indian breed, which is, however, recognized by the Indian Armed Forces as a potential aid for service work.
The Kombai is yet another indigenous dog breed of Tamil Nadu province, and it is a strong guard dog that used to be the pet of soldiers. As a result of its habitat, it is often mistaken forgone of the Rajapalayam types.
Identification tips:

• The Kombai are reddish-brown with a black snout
• Small, sturdy, and fearless by character
• Rajapalayams, on the other hand, are characterized as big, thin, and always immaculate white

Why the confusion?
On top of that, both hailed from Tamil Nadu and were scarce, but their jobs were different, as the former was a hunter, and the latter was a protector with no equal in courage.
The Gaddi Kutta, known as the Himalayan Sheepdog, is a diligent breed of dogs that can be seen in the north of India. The puffy-like fur of the dog usually leads it to be confused with a Tibetan mastiff.
Identification tips:

• Gaddi Kutta are lighter and more agile, bred for herding sheep in the mountains.
• Tibetan Mastiffs are big and heavy-boned and were mainly bred for the purpose of guarding.
• Gaddi Kutta are softer with cattle, whereas Mastiffs are fierier to protect.

Why the Confusion?
Both have thick fur for cold weather, but their functions, temperament, and body types make them very different.
India's indigenous dogs have always been the country’s cultural symbols, defenders, and faithful friends who have been humans' associates all through the ages. Understanding them properly is a twofold thing: not only racking up their deserved respect but also conserving their survival.
If a dog seems "foreign" to you next time, take a moment to consider the possibility that it might be an unacknowledged Indian treasure.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which breed is the local Indian dog?
   The Indian Pariah Dog is the most recognized indigenous or local dog breed of India.
2. What is the royal dog of India?
   The Rajapalayam dog
3. What is the most familiar dog in India?
   Labrador Retriever
4. Which dog breed originated in India?
   Rampur Greyhound