Rajapalyam
Rajapalyam
| BreedHighlighs: |
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This is one of the few pedigree dogs that the country of India is known for. However, this dog breed is gradually dwindling and almost heading towards the stage of extinction, with Tamil Nadu being the sole Indian state to be the home to a small number of dogs of this breed. Of late, multiple efforts and initiatives have been undertaken to promote the breed and enhance their popularity in the nation. |
| Weight: |
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Male: 25 kg Female: 20 kg |
| Height: |
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Male: 60-65 cm Female: 55-60 cm |
| Life Expectancy: |
| 9-10 yr |
| Litter Size: |
| 7-8 |
| Breed Appearance: |
|
Most Rajapalyam owners favor a milk white-colored dog, with a pink nose and golden eyes. However, the Rajapalyam breed is also discernible in various other colors, including spotted or solid, black, and brown. The spots will start appearing nearly 80 days after their birth. In the previous times, colored puppies were usually culled from the litters since the owners preferred the pure white dogs. The coat of these dogs is short and fine in nature. An incredibly eye-catching and graceful dog, the Rajapalayam consists of a gait similar to the trotting of a thoroughbred horse. Most of the entirely white dogs are beset by deafness, and this breed is not an exception to this norm either. |
| History: |
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Rajapalayam hounds were primarily bred and used by the Nayakar dynasty of Tamil Nadu. It is speculated by some researchers that the Rajapalayam may have been one of the dogs used in the breeding of the modern Dalmatian. The Rajapalayam dog was pressed into service during the Carnatic Wars and Polygar War to launch an offensive against the British cavalry in battles as Rajapalayams were quite swift, powerful and pugnacious while tackling the opponents. It is also believed that 4 Rajapalayams not only saved the life of their master combating a tiger, but also valiantly drove the tiger to its death many years ago near a forest in the Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. They are extensively used to protect the rice fields, houses and farms. In the last two decades, Indian Army started using them as guard dogs to support the army in the border regions of Kashmir. |
| Originally: |
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The Rajapalayam has derived its name from the small town of Rajapalayam, situated in the Virudunagar district of Tamil Nadu. This was the place where this breed came into being. |
| Currently Used As: |
| Hunting dogs, Guard dogs |
| Training: |
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It is not an uphill task to train the Rajapalayam since this breed is quite wise. It is very important to remember that the task of training this breed has to be assigned to only a single person, i.e. the training program has to be begun and concluded by the same person. The dog does not react positively if the original trainer is changed. |
| Health&Care: |
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Rajapalayams are, in general, a salubrious breed. But, it is worth mentioning that caution has to be exercised after bringing a puppy home, as each and every breed can reel under genetic disorders, and other common diseases, like deafness, melanocytes, etc. |
| Living Condition: |
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These dogs typically adore the outdoor environment. |
| Excersie: |
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The Rajapalayam needs a daily walk or jog. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person leading the way forward (this is essential as loyalty towards humans makes dogs set great store by them). These dogs are vivacious and sprightly, and feel quite cheerful when allowed to romp and play, especially if their owner or a companion dog joins in the fun. |
| Grooming: |
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Easy to groomVery less grooming required inbrush. This breed is an average shredder. |
| Pros: |
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A Pedigree Indian dog Splendid guard dogs Can easily accommodate to Indian conditions |
| Cons: |
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Need experienced owners Training requires forbearance instinct compels them to chase and hunt down smaller animals like rabbits. |
