Native Breeds: Fiery canines with steadfast loyalty

When we talk of native breeds of dogs, the conversation invariably meanders to the majestic Rajapalayam, the fierce yet amiable Chippiparai, expert sniffer Kombai, the hunting varieties of Muthol Hound, Caravan Hound and Bully Kutta. A renewed interest has been found among the public on desi dogs and many in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu have taken to dog rearing as a profitable small scale venture.

Rajapalayam (Tamil Nadu):Every country and people take pride in their native breeds, be it canines or any species reared as pets and domesticated animals.

Animals become part and parcel of their lived experience and common culture.

When we talk of native breeds of dogs, the conversation invariably meanders to the majestic Rajapalayam, the fierce yet amiable Chippiparai, expert sniffer Kombai, the hunting varieties of Muthol Hound, Caravan Hound and Bully Kutta.

These eight species possess distinctive characteristics and continue to be the pride of the Tamil country.

Stories abound about their legendary valour and steadfast loyalty to their masters.

With pet lovers going for exotic foreign breeds, which are not best suited for our climate, there is an urgent need to protect and preserve our native breeds, some of which are on the verge of extinction.

And, significantly, Prime Minister Narendra Modi had given a call to the people to turn their attention to the native canine species.

In fact, he also mentioned the greatness of the Rajapalayam, Chippiparai and Kombai in his recent Man Ki Baat address to the nation.

Extolling their virtues, the Prime Minister made it clear that the native varieties, besides being the jewels of the country, do not require huge expenses to nurture and maintain them, unlike the foreign breeds.

Further, they are known for their skill and adaptability, he noted.

People in Tamil Nadu have taken dog rearing as a profitable venture

Now, there is a renewed interest among the public on desi dogs and many in the southern districts of Tamil Nadu have taken to dog rearing as a profitable small scale venture.

"Those running kennels sell the puppies of native breeds which fetch them not less than Rs 1000 to Rs 12000 per puppy if it is a Rajapalayam,” says Sunitha Christy who runs a shelter for abandoned cattle and canines. “The native breeds are super sniffers and they guard their masters till their last breath,” she explained.

"The three Chippiparais that I rear follow me on my bicycle for more than three km and they will return home safely. Never ever they have gone astray. They are my lifeguards,” exclaims Marimuthu, an avid dog lover.

Our love for anything foreign has diminished our interest in our native canine breeds.

It is only expected that the PM’s appeal will have a positive impact and create much-needed awareness to preserve our desi species and take pride in them.