Chippiparai
Overview
The Chippiparai is a sighthound with origins in the Chippiparai region in Southern India. Their iconic slender streamlined and tall body frame sometimes results in them being confused with other breeds such as Indian hounds. Crossbreeding of the Chippiparai has certainly made distinguishing them from other breeds much harder but they nevertheless remain some of the most unique dog breeds. Being the preferred pet for the early Indian royalty and nobility, probably due to their fierce hunting ability and skills, Chippiparai are known for their agility and stamina.
Their streamlined and graceful physique which is also apparent when they move probably also contributed to their fondness among the Indian nobility. However, their popularity decreased with the arrival of British colonialism and extensive cross-breeding and starvation have contributed to the decline of their numbers to almost extinction levels. Although breeders are working hard to ensure such a majestic breed does not become a mere reference in history books, the Chippiparai still remain some of the rarest breeds to get.
Temperament
Chippiparai are sharp and intelligent which makes them suitable as guard dogs. Chippiparai are also affectionate and loyal. One of the fascinating characteristics of their loyalty is their tendency to imprint to one person and become loyal to them. Chippiparai will then dedicate themselves to this one person and become exceptionally loyal. This quality makes them suitable as guide dogs to care for people who need assistance to move around. This is because Chippiparai are also sight hounds which means that they have eyes positioned in such a perfect way that it gives a wide field of view.
Their ability to imprint to one person and become dedicated to them also makes them good pets who can offer companionship and affection, but this can also make them suspicious of everyone else. They are also protective of their territory and space, which can make them unsuitable around other pets and children. Chippiparai can be stubborn and difficult to train, and it is usually ideal if they are socialized with other people and pets at an early stage to make the process easier. They can be aggressive and are known to bark a lot.
Life span
Chippiparai are robust dogs needing little veterinary care and attention. They are low maintenance pets requiring little grooming and cleaning. With good care, they can live for about 12 to 15 years with several being known to go up to 18 years. They need lots of exercise and their tendency to be active can sometimes lead to injuries if the area they live in has a lot of hazards.
Breed Information
| Popularity: | # |
| Origin: | India |
| Breed Group: | Sighthound |
| Size: | Medium |
| Type: | Purebred |
| Life span: | 12-15 years |
| Temperament: | Independent Loyal Robust |
| Height: | ~25 inches (~63.5 cm) |
| Weight: | 33-44 pounds (15-20 kg) |
| Colors: | Brindle Brindle & White Fawn Fawn & White Red Silver-grey |
| Litter Size: | 4-7 puppies |
| Puppy Price: | Average $80 - $120 USD |
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Dog names
| Rank | Male | Female |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Bentley | Roxy |
| 2 | Buster | Gracie |
| 3 | Leo | Abbie |
| 4 | Murphy | Ruby |
| 5 | Harley | Nala |
| 6 | Bandit | Riley |
| 7 | Ollie | Dixie |
| 8 | Roscoe | Izzy |
| 9 | Beau | Roxie |
| 10 | Rex | Kona |
| 11 | Apollo | Charlie |
| 12 | Ziggy | Jasmine |
| 13 | Thor | Winnie |
| 14 | Ranger | Gigi |
| 15 | Benji | Sassy |