Mary Allen
In their homeland of Africa and Asia, Canaan Dogs live wild in the vicinity of human settlements, so they are so-called pariah dogs. Find out everything about the behavior, character, activity and exercise needs, training and care of the Canaan Dog breed in the profile.
In their homeland of Africa and Asia, Canaan Dogs live wild in the vicinity of human settlements, so they are so-called pariah dogs. These belong to the Spitz family, believed to be the oldest canine family in the world. The recognition as a breed can be traced back to the Viennese cynologist Rudophina Menzel, who was committed to supporting the Canaan Dogs in their homeland in the 1930s.
General Appearance
The Canaan Dog or Kanaan dog is medium-sized and very harmoniously built. Its body is strong and square, the breed resembles a wild-type dog. The wedge-shaped head must be well proportioned, the slightly slanting almond-shaped eyes are dark brown in colour, the relatively short, wide erect ears are set on the sides. The bushy tail is curled over the back. The coat is dense, with the harsh top coat being short to medium in length and the dense undercoat lying flat. The color is sandy to red-brown, white, black or spotted, with or without a mask.
Behavior and temperament
Anyone who flirts with a Canaan Dog must assume that this breed is different than others, since the Canaan Dog is just so close to the wild animal. He is very local and territorial and has a strong protective instinct. However, he is loyal to his owner and therefore quite easy to handle. He is extremely suspicious of strangers. The Canaan Dog loves its independence and is very independent. He is considered lively, intelligent and extremely alert, but not aggressive.
Need for employment and physical activity
The Canaan Dog is quite athletic and needs adequate exercise, just like other breeds. It is only conditionally suitable for dog sports. However, he is happy about a task, for example as a watchdog.
Upbringing
Training the Canaan Dog is a double-edged sword. On the one hand, this breed is easy to handle because it is so loyal to its owner. On the other hand, you have to convince the Canaan Dog that it is reasonable to do something before he sees the point in it. Since the Canaan, as already mentioned, is so close to the wild animal, it needs to be socialized particularly early and professionally so that it can overcome its shyness and not be afraid of external stimuli. He should also be made familiar with other dogs early on, preferably in a good dog school.
Maintenance
The short to medium-length coat can easily be kept in order with a brush if you rely on regular grooming. When changing the coat, the dead hair of the dense undercoat should be removed.
Disease Susceptibility / Common Diseases
This breed is very original and has little known diseases.
Did you know?
The Canaan Dog or Canaan Hound is also known by the name Israelspitz.