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Indian Pariah Dog
India's hardy native street dog — intelligent, adaptable and one of the healthiest breeds of all.
How to spot it
A medium, well-proportioned dog of ancient natural type — 45–63 cm tall with a short coat (usually tan, brown, black or piebald), erect ears, a curved tail and a wedge-shaped head. Not a designed breed but a landrace shaped by survival.
Temperament
Alert, intelligent and highly adaptable, with strong survival instincts. Territorial and watchful, it makes an excellent low-fuss watchdog, and when raised with a family it is loyal, gentle and devoted.
Exercise & training
Active and agile; it enjoys walks and play and is very trainable, learning quickly thanks to its street-smart intelligence. Early socialisation helps a rescued adult settle.
Grooming & care
About as low-maintenance as a dog gets — the short coat needs only an occasional brush, and the breed is naturally suited to the Indian climate. Adopting one from the street or a shelter is a genuinely good, cheap and ethical choice.
Health & lifespan
Around 13–16 years and famously robust — generations of natural selection have left few inherited diseases. Routine vaccination, deworming and neutering are the main care needs.
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