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Rajapalayam

White Rajapalayam sighthound standing outdoors
Photo: Vbala0733 — CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons

A regal white Indian sighthound from Tamil Nadu — a fast, devoted one-family guardian.

SizeLargeBest asGuard dogCoatShortOriginIndian native

How to spot it

A tall, elegant sighthound about 63–75 cm at the shoulder, typically pure milk-white with a pink nose and, prized in the breed, golden or pink-rimmed eyes. It is lean, deep-chested and built for speed.

Temperament

Devoted to its own family but wary and often aggressive towards strangers and other dogs — historically a guard and hunting dog of the Rajapalayam region of Tamil Nadu, said to have guarded royal families. It bonds to one household and needs firm, kind handling.

Exercise & training

A high-energy hound that needs plenty of space and daily running. Early, thorough socialisation is essential given its guarding temperament, and it is best with experienced owners.

Grooming & care

The short coat needs almost no grooming, and the breed is well-suited to the hot, dry South Indian climate. Its white coat and pink skin can be sensitive to strong sun.

Health & lifespan

Around 9–12 years and generally hardy; the pure-white lines can carry deafness, so responsible breeding matters.

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