Bakharwal dog breed, whose origin lies in the young mountains of India known as the Himalayas, is a very ancient dog breed. It is known that the Bakharwal breed of dogs was bred by the cross-breeding of a wolf with a Molosser sheepdog somewhere around 300 years ago.
Their origin specifically lies in the Ladakh region of Northern India. The breed is mainly present in India along with Afghanistan and Pakistan.
If you are curious to know the interesting facts about this unique ancient breed, read further.
- The Guarding Dog of India
Bakharwals were initially used to guard sheep flocks, farms, and homes in Jammu and Kashmir. Nowadays, the Indian police take their help in defense services. Even today, they are bred by nomadic tribes primarily to guard their livestock and settlements.
- How They Got the Name Mastiff
Known to be the oldest dog breed in India, it is assumed that the Bakharwal Dog breed is descended from the crossbreeding of the Indian Pariah dog along with the Tibetan Mastiff. That is the reason they inherited the name Mastiff.
- The Breed Has Some Names
The breed is famously known as the Bakharwal breed but this is not the only name they have. They are known by multiple names like the Bakharwals Mastiff, Gurjar dog, Gurjar watchdog, Kashmiri sheepdog, Kashmiri mastiff, and Kashmiri Bakerwal dog.
- Colors They Got
The Bakaharwal dog breed has many colors. The common ones are Black, tan, red, sable, white, fawn, and Pied. However, the most common color of the Bakharwal breed of dogs is black with white spots on the chest and toes.
- It's All About the Looks
Bakharwal dog breed has lean muscle mass. They are usually 23-30 inches long. They have an exceptionally large head compared to their body along with pendant ears and a neck that is quite muscular and thick.
With well-developed shoulders and long legs, Bakharwal dogs are known to be powerful. Their coat is their specialty as it is very thick which has saved them from the harsh north Indian winters. The thick coat also protects them from predators to an extent as it gets difficult for an attacker to penetrate their coats.
- The Breeding in Bakharwals
The mating cycle of female Bakharwal dogs goes on for around 9 days. It is in between these 9 days when the female Bakharwal draw in males. The next 3 to 11 days are when the bitch is receptive to males.
The gestation period in Bakharwal bitches is 60-64 days. Usually, the breed delivers 6 to 8 puppies at a time.
- What They Eat
The Bakharwal dog breed is different in the manner as they have a vegetarian appetite. This breed is not fond of meat and flesh in particular. What they like to eat is very basic food like flatbread made of rice chaff, maize, and milk.
The Bakharwal puppy who is 8-12 weeks old needs atleast four meals a day. Though, when they grow, their diet requirement decreases a little. Eg- a 3 to 6-month-old puppy would require 3 meals a day. When it comes to nutrition, it is suggested that high-quality dry dog food is perfect as the nutritional needs can be fulfilled perfectly.
- Do They Work Out? Yes, They Do.
Bakharwal dogs need to exercise daily to remain fit. They are not fit for apartments as they require space. It is very essential for their physical health along with their mental health to do vigorous exercise daily.
A vigorous level of exercise and daily activity helps in recharging their brains. A daily activity like basic walking and playing helps them in dealing with the boredom as bored Bakharwal might exhibit a very difficult behavior.
- Bye-Bye Grooming
The Bakharwal breed of dog does not require much grooming. If you happen to be busy without having much time to groom your pet, a Bakharwal dog might be a perfect choice for you.
Brushing their coat 4-5 times a month is more than enough. Their double coat requires trimming over a period of time otherwise they might develop a dense coat.
Frequently Asked Questions
- How suitable is a Bakharwal dog as a pet?
Loyal, brave, and protective. Bakharwals require very less maintenance efforts. They will protect you at any cost. However, they are not a perfect fit if you have an apartment. They require more living space.
- What diseases Bakharwal can have?
The breed is mostly immune to serious diseases and infections. However, the common issues they have are obesity, bloating, patellar luxation, canine hip dysplasia, and cryptorchidism.
- What do they like to eat?
Considering they were bred by nomadic tribes, they are more into milk and bread. Bakharwals refrain from eating meat and non-vegetarian products.
- How long do Bakharwals live?
Bakharwals usually live for around 10-12 years.
- What is the average cost of Bakharwals?
They cost somewhere between INR 2500 and 3000.
