Canaan Dog

Family: terrier

Origin: livestock, herding, primitive, Southern (pariah)

Date of Origin: Israel

Breed For: ancient times

Lifespan:

Recently Used For: sentry, messenger, and assistance

Avg Size of Male: Height: 50 - 60 cm(20- 24in) Weight: 14-18 lbs(6-8 kg)

Avg Size of Female: Height:9-12 in (23-30 cm) Weight: 13-17 lbs (6-8 kg)

Temperament:

Not only does the Canaan dog excel as a herder, but it has also proven itself in a variety of tasks involving dependability and obedience. This is an intelligent, devoted, docile dog that is quite tractable and willing to please. It is aloof toward strangers and protective of its family. The Canaan dog is generally good with other household pets and dogs, but it may be aggressive toward strange dogs. It is a natural guardian and tends to bark a lot.

History:

Canaan dogs have evolved through hundreds, and perhaps thousands, of years of hardship. It is thought that the breed originated in the biblical land of Canaan and were known as kelev Kanani ("dog of Canaan"). When the Israelites were dispersed from their homeland by the Romans 2,000 years ago, most of the Israeli dogs were left to fend for themselves in the Sebulon coastal plain and Negev desert. Bedouins captured male puppies from the wild to raise as guard and livestock dogs. When the Israeli Defense Force tried to develop service dogs in the 1930s, the traditional European service breeds weren't able to adapt to the harsh climate. The Canaan dog owes its existence primarily to the efforts of one woman, Dr. Rudolphina Menzel. Her search for a more suitable dog led her to the native feral dogs. Several dogs were captured, and a breeding and training program was begun. The dogs quickly proved their worth, serving as sentry dogs, messengers, mine detectors, Red Cross helpers and even locators of wounded soldiers during World War II and as guide dogs for the blind after the war. Perhaps no other breed of dog has ever risen from feral roots to become such a useful and dedicated companion in so short a time. The first Canaan dog came to America in 1965. Not the flashiest of breeds, the Canaan's understated good looks may have made many people overlook it, despite its companionship credentials. Now beginning a new era as a show dog, the increased exposure is sure to attract many more people looking for a loyal and hardy pet.

Upkeep:

Few breeds can claim as pure a working heritage as the Canaan dog. This dog will not be happy just sitting around. It needs lots of exercise and mental and physical challenges. These needs can be met with herding exercise, a long jog, or a strenuous game session along with a challenging training session. It can live outdoors in warm to cool climates, but it also makes an excellent house dog. Its coat needs brushing about once a week to remove dead hairs.

Health:

Major concerns: none#Minor concerns: none#Occasionally seen: none#Suggested tests: none#Life span: 12 – 13 years