Kumaon Mastiff
| Other names | Cypro Kukur ( Kumauni - सिप्रो कुकुर) | ||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Country of origin | Kumaon, India | ||||||
| |||||||
| |||||||
| Dog (Canis lupus familiaris) | |||||||
Kumaon Mastiff or Cypro Kukur ( Kumauni - सिप्रो कुकुर), is a rare breed of dog originating in India. Originally bred as a watch dog in the hills of Kumaon this dog is today rare, even in the region of its origin.[1]
Origin
It is said that the dogs primitive ancestors were domiciled in the Mediterranean region - the name Cypro Kukur literally means Cyprus Dog in Kumauni and is believed introduced in Kumaon by settlers where it was bred by locals as a watch dog. Beyond the name, no evidence exists to suggest that the breed originated in Cyprus.[2] [3] Folklore suggests it was introduced by Alexander the Great's soldiers in 300 B.C. when he invaded India.
Appearance
Cypro kukur is a large dog with fairly lean, muscular, well-boned bodies. They have a large powerful head and a strong neck . They have a short, soft coat that always comes in brindle, ranging from dark to light shades. They may also have white markings. The average height of these dogs is 28 inches.[3]
Their appearance has been described to be similar to old Great Danes.
Temperament
They are aggressive dogs and need training.
Enadangered Breed
It is estimated that only 150-200 heads of this breed exist in its country of origin i.e. India [2] in the distant interiors of Kumaon hills.
Greater population of these dogs may be present in Europe,[1] particularly in Italy and Finland[3] where it was introduced by breeders who took the breed to Europe in the late 19th century.
See also
- Mastiff
- List of Mastiff Type Breeds
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 "Kumaon Mastiff-On the Verge of Extinction". mastiffdogsite.com. Retrieved March 31, 2013.
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 "Endangered Breeds". BSL Information. Retrieved March 31, 2013.
- ↑ 3.0 3.1 3.2 "Cypor Kukur". Retrieved March 31, 2013.
External links
| ||||||||||
