Country of origin Kumaon division | ||
Other names Sipro Kukur (Kumauni - सिप्रो कुकुर) Breed status Not recognized as a standardized breed by any major kennel club. Similar Carea Castellano Manchego, Cumberland Sheepdog, Gaddi Kutta, Can de Chira, Magellan sheep dog | ||
The Kumaon Mastiff (Kumauni: सिप्रो कुकुर), also known as the Indian Mastiff and Bulli, is a rare Molosser-type working breed of dog originating in Uttarakhand state of India. Originally bred as a watch dog and livestock guardian in the hills of Kumaon, this dog is rare even in the region of its origin.
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Origin
It is said that the dogs primitive ancestors were domiciled in the Kumaon region.
Appearance
Kumaon Mastiff is a large dog with fairly lean, muscular, well-boned bodies. They have a large powerful head and a strong neck . They have a short, soft coat that always comes in brindle, ranging from dark to light shades. They may also have white markings. The average height of these dogs is 28 inches.
Their appearance has been described to be similar to old Great Danes.
Temperament
They are aggressive dogs and need training.These dogs have great guarding ability and they show protective instinct from the strangers and intruders.
Endangered Breed
It is estimated that only 150-200 individuals of this breed exist in its country of origin i.e. India in the distant interiors of Kumaon hills, Uttarakhand.
Greater population of these dogs may be present in Europe, particularly in Italy and Finland where it was introduced by breeders who took the breed to Europe in the late 19th century.