Telomian

Breed Rating

Breed Details

General

The Telomian is a rare dog breed of Malaysia. It is a small to medium size versatile primitive breed that can do many tasks such as hunting, vermin eradication, guarding and shepherd chores but it has a unique ability that sets this breed apart from most dog breeds. The Telomian dogs can climb the the wooden ladders of houses which are built on 6 to 8 foot stilt by Orang Asli, the indigenous people of Malaysia. The dog enters the house before any other family member and kills any snakes or other potentially dangerous animal that may have come inside when the residents were away. This breed has another unique quality in that it can use its paws almost like humans use their hands. This dog can use its paws to hold objects, toys, food and even to open doors.

This small to medium size dog stands between 15-19 inches and weighs around 18-28 pounds. It is similar in looks with other pariah dogs with a firm, strong and square body, erect ears and parti-coloured coat. It comes with a well proportioned head, medium size pointed ears and almond shaped dark eyes that are set wide apart. The sturdy yet elegant and straight body comes with deep chest with well sprung ribs. It has a short and smooth coat that comes in all shades of brown.

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

Color

All shades of brown or sable with white ticking are found in this breed. These dogs may also have black masks.

Coat

The coat of Telomian is short and smooth.

Personality

Highly intelligent, very loving and affectionate and inherently protective, the Telomian dogs are loveable dogs. Not only passionate hunters, these dogs are very human oriented and eager to please. Obedient to their master, they will every one's heart with their charming personality. Highly energetic yet gentle and considerate, the Telomian will make excellent and tireless playmate of children as well as their protective dogs. This breed is instinctively alert and leery of strangers. It makes excellent watch and guard dog. It gets along well with other dogs without any problem. This entertaining dog has the unique ability to make faces which is specially displayed when this dog pleads for a treat. Early socialization, starting from 4th week of the puppy's life will ensure that this dog will become a well rounded, excellent family pet. Unsocialized dogs will become aloof and shy. This breed does not bark! Instead, it will produce other sounds like growling, howling and crowing thus this breed will not pose noise problems for neighbors if it is kept as apartment dog though the owner should provide this high energy breed with lots of exercise to avoid destructive behavior.

Care

Once a week brushing is all that is required to keep the shiny coat free of dead hair and shiny. This breed should be taken on daily walks and provided with ample physical and mental stimulation.

Training

The Telomian is an intelligent and eager to please dog which makes it very trainable through consistent and positive training routines.

Activity

High energy levels of Telomian will need high exercise and activity levels. The dog will benefit from daily long walks but also needs to be taken in open and secure places where it can play and run as it likes. Ideally, a Telomian will be best suited in a house with a medium yard though this breed can adapt to apartment living if give proper exercise.