Rajapalayam

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Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Rajapalayam is a large sighthound originating in Tamil Nadu state of India. It closely resembles Miniature Great Dane in strong body conformation that exudes immense strength. Primarily used to hunt wild boar, this breed has been a favorite choice of noblemen of India. Though present since 17th century, its exact origin is still unknown but this dog is speculated to have a great influence in the development of the Dalmatian dog breed although it has not be proven scientifically or otherwise.

The Rajapalayam is a large hound that stands between 25-30 inches and weighs about 48-55 lbs. The trademark features of a Rapalayam is a broad muscular chest, tucked up waist, pristine solid white coat, a pink nose and golden colored eyes. The facial structure and graceful gait, that is similar to a thoroughbred horse, give this dog an elegant demeanor. It comes with a dome shaped head, hanging ears, dark brown eyes and whip-like slightly curled tail. The coat is short and coarse except on head where it is soft. Most favored colour is milk white as black, brown and spotted dogs were culled, resulting in an all white Rajapalayam with pink nose and golden eyes.

This breed is NOT recognized by AKC or any other major kennel club.

Color

All white is the preferred colour for Rajapalayam although the dog can exist in solid black, brown and spotted varieties too but puppies with any other colouring except milky white are culled by breeders, resulting in only milky white Rajapalayam.

Coat

The coat of Rajapalayam is short and fine. It is coarse on the body but soft on the head.

Personality

A through and through hunter and guardian dog, the Rajapalayam has been assigned these roles since its development in the 17th century. It was also used as 'Dog Army' against the British Army during Carnatic War. It is a very strong and ferocious hunter and guardian dog but there is more than just guarding instincts in this dog. The Rajapalayam is a very loving and affectionate dog to whom it knows. It is very friendly and kind to its master and family and with high protective instincts, makes a wonderful and dependable watch and guard dog. It is instinctively wary of strangers to the extent that it does not like to be patted by people it does not know. This intelligent breed has exceptional sense to tell friend from foe and it will instantly attack any perceived threat. Its appearance works as a natural deterrent for intruders. It can get along with other dogs but should not be trusted around smaller pets due to high prey drive. Although it is friendly to all members of its family, the Rajapalayam tends to bond itself more with one person and will ignore the rest when that person is around. It is playful and gentle with older children. Training is easy as the dog will respond to positive training methods. As a working dog, the Rajapalayam needs space and time to run and play. With proper socialization and training, the Rajapalayam makes a formidable guard dog and an excellent family pet.

Care

This short-coated breed is very easy to take care of with once a while brushing of the coat to remove dead hair. Ears should be checked for infection regularly. Being an all white dog, the Rajapalayam is prone to deafness.

Training

This dog is easy to train but with one condition! Training should be conducted from start to end by same person as the dog will not respond well if the trainer is changed. Training should be aimed at improving its concentration in following a trail as this dog is known to be easily distracted by other mor interesting scents. It is not uncommon for this breed to lose interest and abandon a scent if a rabbit or another prey is seen.

Activity

Like all working dogs, the Rajapalayam has high exercise demands. It is best suited in a rural or suburban setting or in a house with a large yard where this dog can let off its energy with play and running. Daily walk is also mandatory for this breed if it is not hunting.