Chippiparai

Chippiparai
Other names	Kanni
Origin	India
Traits Height Males 65–68 cm (26–27 in) Weight Males 28–30 kg (62–66 lb) Females 25–28 kg (55–62 lb) Litter size 5–11 Life span 11–14 years
Dog (domestic dog)

The Chippiparai is a sighthound breed of dog from the south of India. It is a solid and single coloured version of indigenous hound dog of Tamil Nadu; today it is found in the area around Periyar Lake, while black and tan and black and sable versions are called Kanni. It is used primarily for hunting small rabbits, forest pig, and deer, but after the hunting regulation act passed by the Indian government, now they are being used for dog racing and show breed. Even so, these dogs are used for catching rabbits in small villages near forest and mountain in south India. They are also used for guarding the home. Bred by royal families in Chippiparai, Virudhunagar district Tamil Nadu, it was kept as a symbol of royalty and dignity mostly in Tirunelveli, Thenkasi, Kagzhu Malai and Madurai. It is also known for its speed and loyalty to owners.

Description

Head Study

Appearance

The typical colors are fawn, black, reddish brown, black tinged coat, silver-grey, with very limited or no white markings and long curved tail. Other colors, particularly variations of grey and fawn also occur. This is a medium dog, around 25 inches or 63.5 cm at the withers., in a recent study males averaged approximately 63.0 cm and females approximately 56.0 cm at the withers. It has a short coat that is very close; on the whole the coat if kept groomed has a shine on it. A shining, shell-like appearance is greatly desired. This kind of coat makes it ideal for hot climates. This hound is also less prone to ticks and fleas, with their short coat providing easy detection. The overall appearance is very similar to that of the Sloughi, or the Rampur Greyhound.

Temperament

Male Puppy

The Chippiparai is a robust animal needing little or no veterinary care. It is active during young stages. It does need lots of exercise, as it was and is meant to hunt. Chippiparai is an intelligent breed and a wonderful watch dog. Contrary to the belief that it is a one-man dog, the Chippiparai gets along well with people other than its owner if it is properly socialized. Chippiparais love human companionship and are averse to being in isolation. They are capable of great speed and can overtake a hare with ease.

The Chippiparai is not a fussy eater. It is easy to groom and does not shed much due to its short coat length.

Health

Generally the breed is healthy. Though sturdy enough to cope with limited means and harsh weather conditions, the breed does suffer from cold weather. They have certain general health issues such as sensitivity to anesthesia and food allergies.

Future of the breed

The breed is rare in dog show circles. However, there are multiple recent campaigns by breeders based at southern districts of Tamil Nadu to increase the awareness about this breed. These campaigns are showing progress and there is an increased interest amongst people living in rural areas with large open farms. Besides other Native dogs Chippiparai take place at Kolkata also.

External links

• Chippiparai
• [1] – magazine article