African Dog Breeds to Consider When Choosing a Pet
It should not be surprising that the vast and varied geography of Africa is home to a diversity of dog breeds, each as exceptional and distinctive as the area of the continent where they feel at home. We can’t help but adore these independent dogs due to their intriguing traits and eccentricities.
1 — Rhodesian Ridgeback
Breeders combined the indigenous Rhodesian ridgeback with terriers carried to southern Africa by Dutch colonists as well as other European dog breeds. These ridged dogs were particularly useful hunting dogs since hunters found them to be great at facing lions. They could hunt game like antelope for nourishment and were proven specialists at fending off harmful predators like leopards and monkeys.
2 — Saluki
Salukis are expensive dogs, but you get what you pay for: an elderly, athletic companion who resembles a dancer. Don’t let their thin structure mislead you! These dogs enjoy running and are skilled hunters. Although its history is hazy, it may be roughly traced to the Middle East almost 9,000 years ago. The “Royal Dog of Egypt” has the moniker and has been observed being mummified alongside its Egyptian owners. They make adorable, albeit independent, pets today.
3 — Basenji
The nimble and astute The Basenji is frequently called the African Bark-less Dog. But as Myers notes, “Although it sounds appealing to have a dog that doesn’t bark, wait until you hear their yodel.” They have pipes, “like an air raid siren.” They love their owners, especially those who give them enrichment activities for central African hunt dogs, because of their independent attitude that makes them almost cat-like.
4 — Abyssinian Sand Terrier
The Abyssinian Sand Terrier is a playful dog who enjoys running and playing with kids. They also show their family affection and loyalty. Because of their loyalty, they are very watchful of their homes. They get along nicely with the other dogs and animals, though. These medium-sized canines have a unique appearance because they lack hair. These dogs frequently lack the ability to bark unless they’re kept around other breeds and pick up the tendency, which is an interesting feature about them.
5 — Africanis
The Africanis is a native dog breed of South Africa and one of the few extinct breeds still in existence. DNA research has proven that the Africanis are a separate breed, contrary to earlier claims that they were mongrels. It has origins that go way beyond the Egyptian dynasties, to around 7000 BC. It resembles a hybrid of a greyhound and a dingo. The Africanis still exist in South Africa’s remote tribal tribes, where they serve as guard dogs and hunt, herd, and handle other animals as part of their traditional way of life. Read More…