What makes the Rajapalayam Unique?
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.
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Is the Rajapalayam Right For You?
A Rajapalayam will immediately attack once danger to its family is perceived. Surprisingly, this breed would instinctively know if a stranger is a threat or not. This breed is warm, caring and very affectionate especially with older children though it tends to form a special bond with one family member. Although friendly to the whole family the dog will ignore the others once the favorite person is around. This intelligent dog trains easily but training must be started and finished by the same person as the dog will react negatively if the original trainer is changed.
In 5 Words
- Protective
- Loyal
- Loving
- Intelligent
- Alert
Characteristics
Learn About the Rajapalayam
Description
General Description
The dog’s muscular and well balanced body structure denotes extreme power. However, the facial structure and the graceful gait that is not unlike the gait of a thoroughbred horse give this scenthound an elegant demeanor. The Rajapalayam is a rare breed. This breed was in fact on the brink of extinction. These dogs are only seen in the remote villages in its country of origin thus not many people know how this breed looks like. A person seeing this dog for the first time may take the dog for a miniature Great Dane although it is quite bigger in size. Early Rajapalayam dogs are much larger than their modern day counterparts. Present day dogs are about four feet in height. 25 kg is the approximate weight of a fully grown male and 20 kg for females. The dome shaped arched head is carried high. Both the head and the body are covered with loose skin but no wrinkles on the head and no dewlaps are formed. Hanging ears are soft. The eyes are dark brown. Powerful jaws enclose strong teeth that meet in a scissor bite. The whip-like tail has a slight curl and thins at about 1/3 of the length to the tip giving it a bony appearance. This breed has a short coat that is soft on the head and rather coarse on the body. The common and most accepted color is milk white. Solid black, brown and spotted dogs have existed but breeders have commonly culled puppies with these coat coloring. This practice has resulted to the development of Rajapalayam with an all white coat, a pink nose and no pigmentation. Long strong legs enable this scenthound to easily catch its prey.
Short History of the Rajapalayam
Rajapalayam hounds were primarily bred and used by Nayak dynasty of Tamil Nadu, it is speculated by some researchers that the Rajapalayam may have been one of the dogs used in the breeding of the modern Dalmatian.[dubious – discuss] The Rajapalayam dog was used during the Carnatic Wars and Polygar War to attack the British cavalry in battle as Rajapalayams were very fast,strong and aggressive in attacking the opponents. It is also believed that once 4 Rajapalayams saved the life of their master fighting against a tiger and killing it bravely many years before near forest in Virudhunagar district of Tamil Nadu. They are largely used to guard the rice fields,houses and farms. Since last two decades Indian Army started using them as guard dogs to support the army in the borders of Kashmir.
Temperament
The Rajapalayam is mainly used for hunting wild boar and as a guard dog awesome. You need open spaces and is very loving and devoted to his owner, but not always demonstrative.They usually does not like to be touched or handled by strangers and dogs are known to one man. Most specimens are aggressive and hostile to strangers, and attack intruders. Socialization in puppyhood is important. Rajapalayams usually do not get along with other pets like cats, due to their strong hunting instincts.
Caring for Your Rajapalayam
General Health
Your rajapalayam should see the veterinarian for a full diagnosis, immunizations and heartworm exam each year, and ASAP when he is injured or sick.
Care
Daily
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
Grooming & Bathing
The Border Collie needs regular grooming, with extra attention given during times it is shedding. These dogs should be bathed only when necessary.
Exercise & 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.
Rajapalayam Picture Gallery
