Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound (Khotosho)

Originating in Siberia, Mongolia, and Tibet, the Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound, also called the Khotosho, is a rare and ancient breed. Since ancient times, nomadic tribes have relied on this strong and devoted dog to guard their cattle and defend their homes from wolves and even bears.

In spite of its formidable moniker and robust physique, the Khotosho is renowned for its kind and composed demeanor, particularly in the presence of its relatives. This breed develops close relationships with its owners and is fiercely devoted to them. Because of their loyalty, though, they require a loving but firm hand during training to make sure they develop into well-mannered, balanced adults.

Though it is still extremely rare, the Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound has become more well-known outside of its native region in recent years. Khotosho provides a special mix of strength and love for those seeking a courageous, loyal, and strong companion.

Brief information about the Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound

A national treasure and symbol of both Buryatia and the state of Mongolia, the Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound is found near the Russian border. These are the regions where this breed originated.

The Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound is another name for the breed in addition to "khotosho," which translates to "yard wolf" and the traditional name.

  • Mongolian dog;
  • dog of the Huns;
  • bankhar, which is translated as "fluffy, stuffed with wool";
  • bavgai – in the Buryat language this is how the word "bear" sounds.

Country🇷🇺

The breed is most prevalent in Buryatia and its surrounding areas in Russia, including Tuva, Zabaikalsky Krai, and Eastern Siberia. Along with the CIS nations, the species is also well-liked in Kazakhstan, China, Mongolia, and other nearby nations.

Group

The FCI does not recognize the Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound dog breed internationally. Nonetheless, the species was placed in the appropriate group by the RKF, which was "Molossers, mountain dogs," under the section "Pinschers, schnauzers, molossers, Swiss mountain and cattle dogs." Testing the representatives of the breed for functionality is not required.

Wool

Buryats have a double coat that is thick, dense, and slightly rough to the touch. There is a thick layer of fluffy, soft undercoat. The coat may have a variable length. Dogs have a luxurious mane, pants on the hips, and an abundantly fluffed tail, with hair up to 20 cm in length. The thick coat lacks noticeable feathering and has a shorter awn of less than 10 cm. Only the tail may be covered in somewhat long decorative hair.

Another variety is intermediate, having an awn that is between 10 and 12 cm in length. Although it is not as abundant as in the first case, it is distinguished by a good development of the dressing coat. In each instance, the hair is straight. Curly hair is a disqualifying characteristic.

Colors

The following range of colors is permitted by the breed standard:

  • red of all kinds of shades – from faded to bright;
  • black;
  • black with white and red markings;
  • zonary.

An excessive number of markings on an animal’s coat are not desired. The tip of the tail, the lower limbs, and the chest can all have small spots. For this breed, saddle and spotted colors are inappropriate.

Sizes

The Mongolian wolfhound, or Buryat, is a large breed. Females begin to wither at 60 cm, while males begin to wither at 68 cm. A noticeable sexual dimorphism exists. It is interesting to note that dogs of this species mature slowly, taking until the age of four to fully form.

Weight

It is possible that the Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound weighs considerably more than 45 kg in both male and female forms. Everything is based on the unique qualities of the dog. What matters most is that the weight and height are equal. The animal should not have any discord in its appearance.

Temperament

Khotosho is a dog with a steady, stable mental state and a calm demeanor. She bonds with the owner and the entire family very quickly. becomes remarkably devoted, watchful, and considerate of them. Since she finds it so important to communicate with her family, she does not handle loneliness well. The dog gets along with every member of the family, even the youngest. He keeps his cool, puts up with all of their antics, and takes good care of the children.

Although the dog does not exhibit overt aggression, it does approach strangers with caution and is constantly on the lookout. She will alert the owner to any potential threats by barking loudly and defending him. She won’t be the first to attack without being provoked, but she will quickly move into an active defensive stance if the opponent is hostile.

The wolfhound is peaceful and peaceful coexistence is her preference. She does not argue with other animals or with family members.

The Mongolian Hotosho will not feel comfortable in a small apartment because of her size. Living outside of the city in a home with a neighboring territory and having unrestricted walking are the most suitable living arrangements for him. The dog may be kept in an enclosed space that is equipped and covered, but never on a leash.

For the Mongolian wolfhound to keep their muscles toned, they need to be physically active and exercise more. The dog enjoys swimming, running, and object retrieval. It isn’t appropriate for any kind of dog sports, though.

Fertility

Due to the late physical formation of breed representatives, it is not advised for a bitch, like a male, to mate before the age of two to three and a half years. The animal can only produce healthy offspring at this age without endangering its own physical state. A bitch typically produces a litter of six to nine puppies.

Life expectancy

What is the lifespan of Buryat-Mongolian wolfhounds? Individuals can expect to live for up to 13 or 14 years.

Use

The Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound dog is more energetic, efficient, and resilient than other breeds. Its traits and abilities are highly adaptable. Its primary functions include guard and watch duties, house, farm, and livestock protection.

Khotosho is employed in rescue and search operations. For those who are disabled, the dog can serve as a responsible, watchful guide and nurse. This guard dog doubles as a dependable bodyguard in times of emergency in addition to being a great friend and companion.

Cost

What is the price of a Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound? Although they are available for purchase at kennels all over the nation, Khotoshos are most commonly found close to their original home region. The cost of a puppy is determined by its breed characteristics, pedigree and the qualities of its parents. Another important factor is the breeder’s or kennel’s reputation. A Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound can be purchased for as little as forty thousand rubles.

Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound: photo

An image of a Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound depicts a large, strong-looking dog with a fairly pleasant demeanor.

History of the origin of the Buryat-Mongolian dog

The Buryat-Mongolian dog spent a considerable amount of time in the historical habitat. Its predecessors predate the Tibetan mastiffs in origin. Natural selection, in which the strongest and best-adapted individuals survived, formed the species over several centuries, if not millennia.

However, the breed had all but vanished by the middle of the twentieth century. Soviet dog handlers planned a trip to Buryatia, Mongolia, and neighboring areas in the late 1980s with the goal of reviving the endangered breed and learning more about it. They discovered people who would later form the majority of the current population in isolated places. Dogs were chosen for both their character and working abilities during the selection process. The Buryats’ genes were periodically supplemented with material derived from breeds that shared a similar phenotype, such as Tuvan shepherd dogs and mastiffs.

Afterwards, in order to breed these dogs—which the local Buddhists have only lately started to revere—a nursery was established in Buryatia. All litters of this species have been entered into the stud book since 2000. Although the RKF approved the breed in 2006, it is still not recognized internationally.

Large and strong, the Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound, also called Khotosho, has its origins in ancient Siberia and was initially bred to protect nomadic families and their livestock. This uncommon breed, which is well-known for its loyalty, intelligence, and fierce protective instincts, is a great companion for people who can give it plenty of room and appropriate training. The Khotosho is an imposing creature that is fearless in its guardianship but gentle with family members and naturally suspicious of strangers.

Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound: breed description

A large dog with strong bones and muscles, the Buryat breed is known for its rugged build. The following traits are included in the breed standard:

  • The head is large, proportionally built. The occipital protuberance is poorly visible. The superciliary arches are clearly defined. The forehead is wide. The stop is moderately pronounced. The muzzle has a blunt shape, slightly elongated. The lips fit tightly. The jaws are strong. The bite is in the form of scissors or straight.
  • The eyes are medium in size, located wide apart. The color of the iris is brown, of different shades.
  • The ears are at the level of the forehead. Are of medium size and triangular in shape. Bend along the line of cartilage and hang down.
  • Body rectangular format. Strong and sturdy. The back is powerful, straight, the withers and sacrum are at the same level. The loin is slightly convex. The croup is long, with a slight slope. The chest is oval-shaped, has good depth and width. The belly is tucked up.
  • The base of the tail is high. In a state of calm, it hangs down, when moving or in an excited state, it rises above the back in the shape of a ring or sickle.
  • The front limbs are straight, parallel to each other. The back legs are set wider than the front ones, also straight and parallel. The angles of the joints are moderately pronounced. The paws are large, rounded.

The character of the Hotosho

Dogs belonging to the Buryat breed are extremely reasonable and self-assured. Although the dog tends to act independently, all of its decisions are sound and well-reasoned. Only very rare circumstances result in unpredictable behavior. The dog is eager to learn new things and has a lot of curiosity.

With the exception of the younger family members, who he occasionally has to disobey in order to protect and defend, the dog is obedient to all of the other members of the household but only to one owner. The Hotosho dog prefers a respectful partnership when interacting with people. The pet will endure such an incident for a long time because it will not put up with injustice or rudeness towards itself.

Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound: characteristics of the breed

Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound: pros and cons

Characteristic Description
Breed Origin Buryat-Mongolia, used for guarding and herding livestock.
Size Large, powerful, and muscular build.
Coat Thick, double-layered, suitable for cold climates.
Temperament Loyal, protective, and calm with its family.
Exercise Needs Requires regular physical activity and space to roam.
Lifespan Averages between 10 to 12 years.

The Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound, also referred to as the Khotosho, is a unique breed renowned for its protective instincts, loyalty, and intelligence. For those who value its history and character, this ancient dog is a unique and valuable companion because of its strong connection to its heritage.

The breed is becoming more well-known for its adaptability as a working dog and a family companion, even though it is still quite uncommon outside of its natural habitat. The Khotosho can flourish in a variety of settings and provide its owners with security and affection if given the right training and socialization.

Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhounds are a great option if you’re searching for a dog that combines strength, loyalty, and dedication. However, this breed requires commitment and understanding to meet its physical and mental needs. You will have a lifelong, devoted friend in exchange.

Video on the topic

Khotosho

Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound. Obedient Khotosho

Buryat Mongolian wolfhound vs. a pack of wolves

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Igor Semenov

Zoopsychologist with extensive experience. Specialization - behavior correction for cats and dogs. I help owners understand why their pets behave in certain ways and how to change unwanted behavior without stressing the animal.

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