What Are Some of the Most Common Indian Dog Breeds?

India is the second most populated country in the world with over 1.4 billion people. It should be no surprise, then, that it is also home to millions of pets, including dogs. In fact, about 6 out of every 10 Indians own a pet, with dogs being the most popular with 68% of pet owners reporting owning a canine. With dogs being such a significant part of pet ownership in India, let’s take a look at some of the most common Indian dog breeds.

Common Dog Breeds in India

India has a rich history of dogs, and many breeds have originated from different parts of the country. Indian dogs are known for their resilience, loyalty, and agility. Here are some of the most common Indian dog breeds:

  • Indian Pariah Dog – Also known as the Indian Native Dog, the South Asian pye dog, and Desi Kutta, it is one of the oldest breeds in India. It is a medium-sized dog that is very agile and is commonly found in rural areas. They are excellent watchdogs and are known for their loyalty and affection toward their family.

 

  • Rajapalayam – Originating from Tamil Nadu, the Rajapalayam—also known as the Polygar Hound or Indian Ghost Hound—is a tall and lean dog, with a white coat and pink nose. They were originally bred for hunting wild boar and guarding the palace of Rajapalayam. 

 

  • Kombai – Also known as the Indian Bore Hound, the Kombai is a muscular and powerful dog that is commonly used for hunting. They have a short coat and come in various shades of red. 

 

  • Mudhol Hound – Originating from Karnataka, the Mudhol Hound—also known as the Maratha Hound, the Pashmi Hound, the Kathewar Dog, and the Caravan Hound—is a tall and lean dog, with a short coat that comes in various shades of fawn, black, and brown. They are used for hunting and make great companions. 

 

  • Gaddi Kutta – Also known as the Himalayan Sheepdog, Bhote, Bangara, and the Himalayan Mastiff, the Gaddi Kutta is a large and powerful dog that is commonly used for guarding livestock. They have a thick coat that protects them from the cold weather in the Himalayas. 

 

  • Bully Kutta – Also known as the Indian (or Pakistani) Mastiff, the Bully Kutta is a large and powerful dog that is commonly used for guarding and hunting. They have a short coat and come in various shades of white, black, and brindle. 

 

  • Gull Terrier – Also known as the Gull Terr, the Gull Terrier is a rare breed of dog that originated in the Punjab region of India and Pakistan. It is a medium-sized dog that is muscular and agile, with a short coat that can be white, black, brindle, or a combination of these colors. The breed is known for its loyalty, courage, and intelligence.

 

  • Indian Spitz – The Indian Spitz is a breed of dog that originated in India. It is a small- to medium-sized dog that is agile and energetic, with a thick white coat that requires regular grooming. The breed is known for its loyalty, intelligence, and playfulness, and makes a great family pet. Indian Spitzes are easy to train and are excellent watchdogs

 

Indian dog breeds are unique and have a special place in the hearts of dog lovers. These dogs are not only loyal and affectionate but also make great companions and protectors. However, there are around 80 million homeless cats and dogs in India who need assistance, care, and a place to call home.

At Stray Animal Foundation of India (SAFI), we are focused on helping stray animals in India receive the care and support they need. We work tirelessly to restore compassion to India’s relationship with its stray animals and ease the strain on the country’s overburdened shelter network. We do this in many different ways, including providing funding, shelter infrastructure, organizational support, vet care, supplies, guidance, resources, education, manpower, and more.

We rely on charitable contributions to continue the crucial work that we do, and 100% of contributions are deployed in the field. These donations directly affect the number of strays we are able to rescue, treat, and shelter. You can help us make a difference in the lives of India’s animals by donating to our cause today!