African dog breeds

Dog breeds come in a wide variety in Africa, each with distinctive qualities and a distinct history. These breeds are highly suited to the unique difficulties of their respective regions because they have evolved in response to the diverse climates, landscapes, and lifestyles found across the continent. African dog breeds are known for their exceptional intelligence, stamina, and resilience, making them suitable for anything from devoted companions to archaic hunting dogs.

Numerous African dog breeds are renowned for having close ties to their home cultures and customs. These dogs have been employed for centuries to hunt, protect homes, and watch over livestock. In many African communities, they are cherished family members in addition to being working dogs due to their innate abilities and close bond with humans.

We will examine some of the most popular African dog breeds in this article, emphasizing their characteristics, histories, and functions in their home countries. African dogs provide a fascinating look into the strong bond that exists between people and animals on the continent, whether you’re interested in learning about their history or thinking about getting one as a companion.

Basenji

• Height: from 38 to 43 cm
• Weight: from 9 to 12 kg
• Life expectancy: from 12 to 16 years old
• Average cost: from 1,500 to 2000 dollars

Africa’s unfinished dog, the bacenji, is known for its boldness and time. But don’t fool yourself—instead of barking and barking, they give a yodl that sounds a little like an air phobia siren!

The oldest African dog breed, the Basenji, has many unique characteristics, but maybe the most remarkable is that they are thought to be so.

These comparatively small dogs are distinguished by their high intelligence, independent nature, and peculiarly curled tails. Basenjis adore their owners, especially the ones who give them mental and physical stimulation. These hunting dogs from Central Africa will become bored and exhibit destructive behavior if left alone for an extended period of time.

Boerboel

• Height: 59 to 70 cm
• Weight: 55 to 79 kg
• Life expectancy: 10 to 12 years
• Average cost: $2,000 to $4,000

Also referred to as the African Lion Dog or South African Mastiff, the Boerboel is a large breed of dog native to South Africa. These 70-kilogram gentle giants, full of courage and agility, are still a relatively uncommon breed of dog.

The Boerboel’s origins remain a mystery. They are thought to be half native African dog and half Mastiff, imported by the Dutch.

Boerboels make exceptionally devoted family guard dogs with proper socialization and training (they typically adore kids). They might not be the ideal pet for an apartment because the only thing they need is enough room to play.

Rhodesian Ridgeback

• Height: 61 to 69 cm
• Weight: 29 to 41 kg
• Expected lifespan: 10 to 12 years
• Average Cost: $1,000 to $1,800

Experienced dog owners who want a devoted and loving running and hunting buddy will adore Rhodesian Ridgebacks. Originally bred to hunt big game in Africa, including lions, this dog is playful and strong, earning it the nickname African Lion Hound.

Rhodesian Ridgebacks are thought to be intelligent and generally obedient companions, but because of their strong will and stubbornness, it’s crucial to socialize and train them at a young age. The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a fantastic outdoor companion for hikers and joggers.

Saluki

• Height: 58 to 71 cm
• Weight: 18 to 27 kg
• Life Expectancy: 12 to 14 years
• Average cost: from 1700 to 2700 dollars

A long-distance race will be gladly entered by graceful, swift, and slender Salukis, so make sure your fence is shut tightly. They travel about 40 mph on average! Beneath their flowing hair is a robust and resilient dog that would be ideal for active families in warm climates.

Did you know that for thousands of years, people have admired the beauty of the saluki? Royalty from Egypt and the Middle East used to adore this dog.

This breed cannot be prevented from engaging in destructive behavior unless it receives daily exercise and plenty of mental stimulation. Nevertheless, Salukis respond best to regular training combined with encouragement.

Pharaoh Hound

• Height: 53 to 63 cm
• Weight: 18 to 27 kg
• Life expectancy: 11 to 14 years
• Average cost: $1,800 to $2,500

The appropriately named Pharaoh Hound is another Egyptian breed that has been mentioned in old texts. They are not only virtuous, clever, and incessantly playful, but they are also skilled hunters. However, they can also be lively, loving pets who adore spending time with their owners.

Fun fact: A Pharaoh Hound "smiles" when it is content, displaying its teeth, waggin’ its tail, and swaying its whole body. Like humans, these expressive dogs are also capable of blushing: Pharaoh Hounds exhibit pink ears and noses when they are agitated.

Even though it is one of the rarest and uncommon domestic dog breeds, occasionally one can spot one competing in agility or lure coursing. Pharaoh Hounds are very trainable and respond well to positive reinforcement training because they are eager to please their human parents.

Coton de Tulear

• Height: 22 to 30 cm
• Weight: 3.5 to 6 kg
• Life expectancy: 14 to 16 years
• Average cost: from 600 to 2100 dollars

Not only is Madagascar a haven for diverse lemur species, but it’s also the home of the pampered Coton de Tulear. Though Koton de Tulear shares some physical similarities with the Maltese Bolonok, this small breed is exquisite and distinctive in its own right. These dogs, named after the region of Madagascar where they originated, are well-known for having fluffy fur that resembles cotton but differs in that it molts less frequently and is primarily hypoallergenic.

These dogs are great for families with kids because they are easy to care for, friendly, and playful. You will have a lot of years to spend together because you have a long lifespan (up to 16 years!).

Aidi

• Height: from 52 to 62 cm
• Weight: about 25 kg
• Life expectancy: from 11 to 12 years
• Average cost: from 450 to 1100 dollars

An exceptional African shepherd dog native to the Atlas Mountains, the Aidi is another uncommon breed, particularly in Russia. They have protected livestock in Algeria, Morocco, and Tunisia for centuries. Aidis embrace challenges and take pride in their work, their thick fur shielding them from vicious predators.

Crucial! Due to their notorious territorial nature, these dogs require a lot of early socialization and training to prevent their untamed instincts from taking control.

Sloughi

• Height: 61 to 72 cm
• Weight: 18 to 28 kg
• Life expectancy: 12 to 16 years
• Average cost: around $1,200

Few canines have a deeper understanding of the North African deserts than the ancient Sloughi, despite the breed’s somewhat hazy history. This elegant canine’s short legs are made for sprinting. Sloughi are referred to as "Arabian greyhounds" for good reason—they make excellent hunters of foxes, wild pigs, and gazelles.

These animals are probably shy around strangers but devoted to their owners. Sloughi love to lounge around the house for a while, but they also need their owners to exercise them every day.

Azawak

• Height: from 60 to 74 cm
• Weight: from 15 to 25 kg
• Expected life expectancy: 10 to 12 years old
• Average cost: $2,000 to $2,500

Originating in Burkina Faso, Mali, and Niger in West Africa, the Azawakh was brought to Europe in the 1970s. Nomads loved these dogs dearly and cared for them as members of their families. Azawakhs took great pride in their ability to defend settlements and hunt game, including wild boar and gazelles.

Despite having a greyhound-like appearance, the breed is actually slightly slimmer and has much longer legs—if that’s even possible!). The gentle and amiable Azawakh requires positive mental and physical stimulation on a daily basis. Training based on rewards works best for this breed.

African dog breeds are a distinct and varied group of canines distinguished by their historical background, intelligence, and adaptability. These breeds, which have developed over centuries to flourish in the various climates and environments of Africa, range from the well-known Basenji, sometimes referred to as the "barkless dog," to the robust and devoted Africanis. African dog breeds are unique in the dog world because of their resilience and loyalty, whether they are utilized for hunting, herding, or just companionship. Gaining knowledge about their backgrounds and characteristics can help us understand their behaviors and unique qualities.

Africanis

• Height: 50 to 62 cm
• Weight: About 35 kg
• Life expectancy: 9 to 12 years
• Average cost: About $650

Given that Africanis are the authentic representation of the indigenous dogs of the black continent south of the equator, the term "African dog" perfectly captures the essence of this ancient, nomadic herding breed. This breed prioritizes family loyalty because of its strong guarding instinct, which comes from centuries of experience defending settlements and livestock.

You may be surprised to learn that this is one of the few dog breeds in existence that has evolved and is still evolving without the help of humans.

These amiable and extremely active dogs love being around people and taking part in activities like running, hiking, and agility training.

Greyhound

• Height: 68 to 76 cm
• Weight: 26 to 40 kg
• Life expectancy: 10 to 14 years
• Average cost: $1,500 to $2,500

This traditional sighthound has Greek and Egyptian ancestry. Presidents and kings alike love the elegant Greyhound. These hunting dogs are fond of taking leisurely strolls and pursuing squirrels, which frequently catch their eye in parks. Greyhounds have 270 degrees of vision, compared to 180 degrees for humans. When taking a stroll, a greyhound’s large eyes are constantly scanning the area for possible prey. Even at 800 meters away, an astute dog will spot an animal hiding!

Fun Fact: According to Proverbs 30:29–31 in the King James Version of the Bible in English, the greyhound is the only breed of dog mentioned.

Greyhounds’ regal, arrogant personality lends them the nickname "cat dogs" a lot. However, these sighthounds are easy to train, have a kind and gentle disposition, and, of course, are searching for a dependable running partner.

Abyssinian Sand Terrier

• Height: 39 to 52 cm
• Weight: 9.5 to 17.7 kg
• Life Expectancy: 12 to 15 years
• Average Cost: Unknown

The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is one of the most distinctive dog breeds from Africa. This vibrant dog, also called the African Hairless Dog, is native to Abyssinia, which is now a part of Ethiopia. The history of the Abyssinian Sand Terrier is not well known. The dog gallery of the British Museum of Natural History in Tring features one of the earliest specimens brought to Europe.

Fun fact: The Abyssinian Sand Terrier’s warm body was once used to warm beds in the winter and to ease aching joints because people thought the dog had magical healing abilities.

With the exception of a few tufts on the head and tail, members of this breed have almost no body hair, and some are even completely bald. It’s interesting to note that some contemporary hairless dog breeds, like the Chinese Crested Dog, are thought to have descended from this extremely rare breed of African dog.

Breed	Description
Basenji	Known as the "barkless dog," the Basenji is a small, energetic breed from Central Africa, famous for its quiet nature and curly tail.
Africanis	A natural breed native to Southern Africa, the Africanis is valued for its versatility, intelligence, and ability to thrive in various environments.
Azawakh	A slender and graceful breed from West Africa, the Azawakh is a loyal and protective sighthound, often used for hunting.

African dog breeds are a distinct and varied group, with each having a distinctive history and set of traits. These dogs, which range in size from the robust Boerboel to the Basenji, dubbed the "barkless dog," have adapted to a variety of environments and ways of life throughout the African continent. They provide an insight into the 5,000-year-old bond that has existed between humans and dogs.

Numerous African breeds are devoted and hardworking companions because they were originally bred for hunting, guarding, or herding. They are valued today for their intelligence, camaraderie, and unique looks in addition to their talents. African dog breeds are ideal for a range of homes and lifestyles, whether you are drawn to them for their athleticism or their gentle disposition.

You can better understand the special role these fascinating breeds have played in African history and culture by learning more about them. To guarantee a happy and healthy relationship, it’s critical to comprehend the unique needs and characteristics of African dogs if you’re thinking about bringing one into your home.

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