The Podenco Andaluz

The Podenco Andaluz is a warren hound AKA a pondenco, which roughly translates to a Mediterranean rabbit hunting breed. Also known as the Andalusian Hound, this is one of several podenco breeds developed in Spain. An ancient breed, he is categorized as a primitive hunting dog by some and as a sighthound by others. The breed is recognized by the Real Sociedad Canina de Espana in Spain, as well as in Germany, although is virtually unknown in America. Because he shares so many similarities to the Portuguese Podenco, the FCI does not recognize him as a distinct breed at this time although clearly several countries disagree with this decision.

The Andaluz comes in three distinct sizes: small, medium and large. While all varieties were used for hunting by sight, smell and sound; the largest variety was normally put to work tracking and flushing out prey in order to kill it and return it to their master (together in packs with Greyhounds). They were also used for watchdog duties. The smallest variety served double-duty both hunting and ridding the home of rats. In addition to several sizes, the breed also can appear in three different coats (shorthaired, wirehaired and longhaired), and a few different colors (white, cinnamon, or a combination of white and cinnamon).

The Podenco Andaluz is affectionate and loyal to his family, and tends to have a larger-than-life personality while still remaining gentle. All varieties also do well with children if raised with them, although the largest variety may be a bit too exuberant for young toddlers. This is a happy-go-lucky breed that enjoys playing just as much as he loves getting into trouble – his curious nature can lead him into various shenanigans throughout his life!

Andaluz are intelligent, quick-learners and enjoy pleasing their owners – all traits that make them surprisingly good obedience prospects. In fact, they need a job to do and without one can develop behavioral issues, which makes training a definite necessity! Agility, disc dog and obedience can all fulfill this need, as can other enriching dog sports. Some hounds can be bossy in nature so household rules should be started early and enforced. Sensitive and gentle beasts – they will shut down with harsh behavior so while training should be firm it should never be abusive. As with other sighthounds, they have high prey drives and tend to chase small animals when given the chance, which means one must work extra hard at enforcing off-leash commands and otherwise keep them in fenced areas until and unless the hound becomes trustworthy (if ever).

The Podenco Andaluz requires daily exercise in the form of regular walking and supplemental time to run in a safe, fenced area. He has plenty of stamina and energy, and can be a fantastic jogging partner as long as he is kept on leash! Without adequate exercise he can become destructive at home. As he was developed to hunt in hot, dry conditions; he does best in these temperatures although can live in most any climate. With proper care, the average lifespan is 11-12 years.

Podenco Andaluz can live in apartments or smaller spaces but only as long as they are given enough exercise – this is a high-energy breed after all! The smaller varieties are a little easier to manage in this type of lifestyle. Whatever the size of the living space, however, the breed is highly alert at home and can be an excellent watchdog. This said, he is a naturally submissive hound that isn’t likely to attack unless push comes to shove. He isn’t fond of strangers and can be skittish or nervous around them – particularly if his owner isn’t around.

The Russian Salon Dog

The Russian Salon Dog is a relatively new breed of dog, created in the early 21st century by crossing Yorkshire Terriers with Shih Tzu and a few other toy breeds. The Russian Kennel Federation recognized the breed in 2013. This is a spirited little dog with an outgoing and friendly nature. They are also highly empathic and will adapt to the mood of their owner. All they ask in return is they be given plenty of attention, affection and company – this is a dog that needs lots of quality time with their human family! Russian Salon Dogs are also obedient and take well to training.

Salons are said to keep themselves rather clean, although there is certainly a larger-than-normal amount of upkeep if one is to keep them in a full coat. Full coats must be bathed at least once every couple of weeks, and the hair on the face should be washed even more frequently! The coat does not shed, which means it must be brushed daily to keep it from getting large tangles. Interestingly, the standard includes three different hair cuts that the dogs are allowed to be exhibited in. The long coat, the “carre” which is a blunt bob cut, or the sporting cut which allows much of the body to be clipped short. This last cut allows for much easier upkeep for owners preferring to keep the dog in a shorter clip while still being allowed to show the dog if desired. Whatever the length, the coat should be straight and soft and should have “a small amount of undercoat”.

The Russian Salon tends to get along well with other animals and are usually happy, carefree and generally well-balanced. They’re friendly with other dogs, cats and small pocket pets including birds. They adapt very well as city dogs and usually have no issue fitting into an apartment or similar-sized home. While they do appreciate a small yard to play in, they can still have fun with a game of fetch in the kitchen of a small studio! Their minuscule size also makes it easy to take them on trips or vacations. Just make sure to keep them from harm – that small size also means they’re more delicate and prone to accidents.

In appearance, the Russian Salon Dog is a tiny breed, standing from 7 to 11 inches tall. He has small, triangular prick ears. Coat colors include both solid colors (with red preferred but also can be cream or sable) and bi-colors (white with red). The red color appears anywhere on the spectrum from “solid” red, cognac, wheaten, fawn, light red or golden. Intense colors are preferred and they should be evenly distributed throughout the coat. A dark mask or dark tail is acceptable in any dog. While sable is a recognized color, it is less encouraged than the other options. This said, younger sable puppies often start out with more dark hairs and gradually become lighter with age.

Photo By Галина Никишина

 

The Pashmi

The Pashmi is an ancient Indian breed which is closely related to the Saluki and the Tazi. The name roughly translates to “furry” or “soft”, referring to the feathers on his ears, tails and back of legs. While some say that this is the feathered version of the Mudhol breed, the Kennel Club of India considers them to be a separate breed. This is a sighthound bred to hunt hare, deer and fox however is also used to guard the home (a common trait among Indian sighthounds). The Pashmi is intelligent but very independent and can be hard to train. They aren’t recommended for novice owners because of their stubbornness and their guarding tendencies. Traits which can be fantastic in the right home but difficult for novices to handle.

The Pashmi is a sensitive soul and often behaves in a reserved manner. He must be treated gently and given plenty of respect. He does not take kindly to bad treatment and, at worst, can show aggression if he feels threatened. That said, he is very loyal to his owner and will show his courageous side when chasing after prey. This isn’t a social butterfly when out in public and, in fact, has been referred to as a “one man dog” as he will practically ignore everyone who isn’t his master. Even still, he must be socialized early and often as a puppy so as to avoid any extreme fearfulness.

Pashmi need to be exercised every day and also require regular grooming. One or twice a week of brushing, in addition to nail trims and dental care are important to the health of this hound. Exercise must include regular bouts of running in a fenced yard – most sighthounds need to run off-leash so they can get up to full speed and the Pashmi is no exception! Because this can only be done in a fenced area, they do best in homes with a yard rather than an apartment. In addition to free running, they should be given regular walks and this can be “upgraded” to jogging or running alongside a bike.

Photo By Ksuryawanshi

 

The Kokoni

The Kokoni (or Small Greek Domestic Dog) is a tiny Greek breed with lots of heart and courage. Although his ancestors are ancient, it is only lately that he has been established as a standardized breed by the Kennel Club of Greece. As of this time, he is not recognized anywhere else. Extremely loyal, he adores his human family and makes a fantastic companion – the job that he was exclusively bred to do. This is an active and alert breed with an intelligent brain and a cheery disposition. His jolly antics and sense of humor provide plenty of entertainment! He even makes a fine watchdog, a decent ratter, and in a pinch will even hunt birds and small game!

When spoiled rotten and given no training, the Kokoni can develop “small dog syndrome” and attempt to take over the household and/or develop possessive behaviors. Don’t let him do that! Training is important for all dogs and little dogs are no exception! Luckily this breed is easily trained and will gladly take to house rules if obedience and manners are practiced regularly. Eager to please, he can be a well-mannered therapy dog or an obedience star if given the guidance to do so. If an owner were so inclined, he could even be trained in dog sports such as canine freestyle, agility and barn hunt. Some say that he even has enough herding instincts (from his ancestors) to allow him to be worked in treibball – a safer alternative to actual herding for this tiny toy.

Kokonis require daily walks to stay in shape and keep their minds/bodies sharp, although walks don’t need to be overly long. They can easily live in apartments or small homes because of their size and their adaptability. A walk combined with vigorous playtime will keep most Kokonis happy and content. Owners should be prepared to keep this up for the majority of the 16-18 years that their Kokoni will likely live – this is a breed with a long lifespan!

As stated above, the Kokoni is a tiny breed that often weighs less than 10 pounds and stands no taller than 11 inches for a big male. The double coat is medium-long in length and can be straight or slightly wavy. All colors and color combinations are acceptable which give them a rainbow of possibilities in appearance. The body is longer than it is tall, and the face sports ears which are triangular and hang down. The tail should curl around and touch the back when alert or on the move, although is often seen hanging normally when resting.

The Kokoni is fairly quiet most of the time although when they do see fit to bark, it is louder than one might imagine! When meeting strangers for the first time they might be more apt to bark and it may take them a little while to warm up. This said, once they get to know a person they are often very happy to have a new friend as they enjoy the company of people. With new owners, this same rule may apply as they take their time to decide that they will “adopt the person as their own”! Once that bond is formed however, it will last forever and their gentle, happy-go-lucky personalities will shine through. A Kokoni with a developed bond is devoted and loyal for life. This is a breed with a steady temperament that isn’t known for aggression or shyness as long as they were properly raised and socialized.

The Kokoni gets along well with children but all interactions must be supervised to make sure he doesn’t get hurt. For this reason, he isn’t recommended for those with very young toddler-age kids. He does have a medium energy level so has plenty of gumption to play without being overbearing (either physically or otherwise). He also is usually fine for novice dog owners as long as they are able to meet his moderate needs. Overall, although he’s virtually unknown in the United States, this is a popular breed in Greece for a reason!

The Caravan Hound

Although he is occasionally considered to be the same breed as the Mudhol Hound, the Kennel Club of India recognizes the Caravan Hound as a separate and distinct breed. This is an ancient breed which is a close relative to the Saluki. The breed’s ancestors were brought to India from Asian traders who traveled in caravans – hence the name. The Caravan is loyal although has an independent personality as his primary purpose had been to hunt autonomously from people, as well as guard the homestead. He is aloof and reserved in temperament.

It is important to socialize a Caravan from a young age as he is naturally protective and territorial. Although most do not enjoy being handled by strangers, early socialization to stranger contact is essential since all dogs must learn to tolerate a vet exam. Without this important step, he can become either extremely fearful or aggressive. This sensitive breed does best with gentle owners who don’t live in chaotic households. Apartments – frequently teeming with tenants – can also be a bit much for this sensitive, yet protective hound. He does much better in a quiet home with a large fenced yard for him to run in.

The Caravan Hound prefers warm climates although can make due in cold weather as long as he is provided a coat. In warm climates he enjoys spending time outside to stretch his legs, although should be given plenty of indoor time so he can relax with his owners. Although independent, he’s not the best match for people that work all day and would be leaving the dog home alone for long bouts of time.

Caravans require extensive exercise every day, and this should be given in a fenced area or on-leash. Like most sighthounds he has a very high prey instinct and will not heed his owners call if in pursuit of a rabbit or similar animal! He should be provided not only with regular long walks, but also routine periods for off-leash running in a securely fenced area. His large size requires a large yard (or fenced space) in order to get up to full speed and thus get the exercise he needs. He is recommended only for active people, and ideally those who are experienced with sighthounds.

The Caravan Hound is trainable but can prove difficult for a novice unfamiliar with sighthound temperament. He is strong-willed and can be harder to motivate than other dogs. He also doesn’t fare well with harsh treatment or training and this must be kept in mind when working with him. Finally, while he is highly intelligent – he may not always jump to follow commands quickly.

Caravans are generally quiet and gentle, and can be great family dogs in the right setting. While most are playful and loving with kids, it’s best if children are older and well-behaved as this breed doesn’t tolerate rude behavior. Because of their general distrust of strangers, they do best in peaceful homes without frequent parties or gatherings. Finally, many can’t be trusted around cats. So while they can be family dogs, a number of circumstances must be met in order to ensure a good match for this breed. This is a hunting breed that doubled as a watchdog or even guard dog in India, which means he is more serious than the typical laid-back companion-bred types sought out by most families.

The head of the Caravan Hound should be long and narrow, with hanging ears set on above the level of the eyes. When it comes to grooming, this is one of the most low-maintenance breeds there is. A quick brush down once a week is enough to keep the coat in check. The coat itself is one of the breed’s distinguishing features, and should be extremely short and “unique”. The breed sheds an average amount. Colors include black, seal, red, gray, fawn, cream, or black and tan. Minimal white markings, sable shading, and black masks are allowed.

Caravan Hound

Photo by CC BY-SA 3.0

The Alpine Dachsbracke

The Alpine Dachsbracke is a scenthound used for tracking wounded deer and hunting both hare and fox. He was at one point in history owned by German royalty. This Austrian breed dates back to the mid-19th century and was recognized in 1932 in Austria, and by the FCI in 1991. He is considered a rare breed in the United States, where he is recognized only by the UKC. Despite his small size, this is a hardy breed able to work in tough terrain and in high altitudes when necessary.

Alpines are super friendly to family/friends/strangers alike although are also quite brave and ready to “give it their all” when it comes to hunting! Because of their strong instincts they are often found in hunting homes rather than companion homes, although this is not to say that they can’t make great family dogs. Usually able to get along great with other dogs and children;  their biggest fault is the same as other hunting scenthound breeds – high prey drive. For instance they aren’t as good with smaller pets and can be cat-chasers if not raised with them from puppyhood. They do best with owners who understand the quirks of living with scenthounds. For those who can meet their particular needs, however, these are loyal and loving hounds with level-headed attitudes.

The Alpine Dachsbracke is easy to housebreak, intelligent and trainable although can also be easily distracted by interesting scents. He wasn’t bred to follow commands, he was bred to sniff out game. Like many scenthounds, off-lead training requires more work on the part of the owner/trainer. Making training sessions interesting and short will be more beneficial for this breed than long, drawn-out sessions. Although he doesn’t need as much mental stimulation as some breeds, he definitely needs his fair share of “brain games” to be happy. Obedience training can be one great way to stimulate that brain! Without some kind of mental exercise he can become stubborn, destructive and a general pain to live with. Alpine Dachsbracke

It is clear to see the Dachshund lineage in the Alpine. He retains the long, low body and short legs that his ancestor also possesses although his legs aren’t quite as stubby. Although short in stature (14-15 inches at the withers), he is quite robust and weighs much more than similar dogs of his height (up to 40 pounds). The coat is short although thick and dense, with a double coat that makes him fully capable of living in cold temperatures. The preferred color of the breed is a distinctive “dark deer red” which may or may not include interspersed black hairs. The other acceptable color is black and tan with the traditional markings of other black/tan breeds (including the Dachshund).

The average lifespan of the Alpine Dachsbracke is about 12 years. While generally healthy, like other dwarf breeds he can have back issues. Keeping him fit and not letting him jump off of high furniture can help keep extra stress off his back and avoid injury. Regular exercise is also important to maintain a healthy spine. This is a very active dog that requires a fair amount of exercise! If he were larger he would likely need an extreme amount, although his short legs make the exercise requirement easier to maintain. Thirty minutes a day should be considered a good minimum to meet, in addition to free romping time in a (fenced) yard. This is not a good choice for apartments unless the owner is able to provide extremely substantial exercise every day.

Most Alpines make great watchdogs although they aren’t known as guard dogs. Not really aggressive nor intimidating in terms of size, they’ll bark but probably won’t do much beyond that. They are alert and interested in the world around them, and enjoy watching out the windows to see what’s going on! When their owners leave, most aren’t known for having separation anxiety issues for although they do love and appreciate having their owners around, they also can be independent.

The Brazilian Terrier

The Brazilian Terrier is one of two recognized dog breeds from Brazil. Most likely derived from Parson Russell Terriers and Smooth Fox Terriers (although their family tree is ultimately a mystery), they were employed to rid farmer’s crop fields of vermin. They are attentive to their surroundings, very lively and quite fearless like most terrier breeds. They make good watchdogs although can be overly vocal when something has really caught their attention. These terriers have stronger-than-average prey drives and cannot normally be trusted around small pocket pets or cats. Brazilians usually get along with other dogs as long as they were socialized to them when young.

Brazilians are intelligent and obedient. They enjoy playtime and can be easily be trained if the sessions are made into fun games! They do require regular training throughout their lives to keep them mentally engaged and out of trouble, as their mind must have a job to do. Some good choices of dog sports that double as jobs include barnhunt rally, ability, obedience, trick training and tracking. These terriers can be independent and do have a stubborn streak so be prepared to be firm while remaining fair! When it comes to training, they learn best with experienced owners and trainers because of their overly willful natures.

Brazilian Terriers are friendly and enjoy the attention of their owners, which they may at times demand! This said, they are loyal and gentle making them great family pets. They can do well around kids, although are recommended for those who have already grown out of the toddler stage as they don’t tolerate rude behavior. Their small size, decent lifespans (averaging 12-14 years) and amusing temperaments make them an attractive choice for active individuals or families. While they are wary of strangers, they will eventually warm up once they get to know the person.

The Brazilian has a bad habit of digging holes in the yard because of his terrier nature. Giving him his own digging space, like a sandbox, would not be a bad idea lest he go after your flower garden! As he is an active breed, he also benefits from regular exercise to keep him out of trouble (an hour a day, bare minimum). He’s a bit too energetic to do well in an apartment and needs both long daily walks combined with time in a fenced-in yard in which to putter around.

Some Brazilian Terriers are known to develop separation anxiety if they are left alone all day on a regular basis so they don’t do well for those who work full time. They also aren’t the best match for someone looking for a dog that can be walked off-leash reliably without extensive training. As mentioned above, they need an extensive amount of mental and physical exercise or they can become very destructive in short order. While they have many good qualities they will only thrive in homes which can meet their particular needs.

The smooth coat of the Brazilian is easy to care for and requires little work, usually just a quick brush once a week or when shedding. Combine this with regular dental care, nail trimmings and ear cleanings and that’s the majority of the work! These little terriers are always tricolored although can appear as a black tri, blue tri, brown tri or isabella tri with specific markings of the face needing to be present. Other key features of the breed include the triangular-shaped folded ears and athletic, long-legged build.

The Brazilian Terrier is a rare breed that is recognized in Brazil and by the FCI. He is not yet recognized in the United States by any of the large dog registries and is practically unheard of in this country. Because he was developed in the warm climate of Brazil he does tend to do better in warmer temperatures although can easily get by when it’s cold by wearing a dog coat or sweater.

Brazilian Terrier

Photo by Canarian

The Hygen Hound

The Hygen Hound is a scenthound from Norway. He got his name from his original creator Hans Hygen, who developed this breed in the 19th century. This hunting breed is known for his incredible stamina and ability to track and retrieve game in harsh arctic terrain. Prey usually consisted of rabbit, fox and hare. A medium sized hound, he is always either brown or red in color – often in combination with white (although not always), or black/tan (almost always with white markings). The coat is very short although dense enough to provide adequate protection in very cold weather.

Hygens are quite rare, and although they are recognized by the UKC in the United States are seldom seen here. One reason for their rarity is their extremely high energy, making them difficult to own for the majority of 9-5er’s. While they can be calm in the home, an extensive amount of exercise is necessary to get them to this state! Furthermore this is not a dog for a novice owner, and temperamentally can be very different than other scenthounds. While still possessing traits that make scenthound ownership difficult in general – such as needing to be kept on leash at all times due to high prey drive, they also have other difficult mannerisms. Many are possessive of resources and territorial of their properties – traits that should only be handled by knowledgeable dog owners.

Hygen Hounds are loyal and affectionate towards their families although act very differently towards strangers. At best, they are aloof. At worst they can be outright aggressive, particularly if they weren’t very well socialized as puppies. While these traits can make them good guard dogs it also means that they could be a liability in the wrong hands, and even having guests over might be a bit worrisome. They also aren’t known for getting along with small pets, sometimes including cats, because of their high prey drives.

Hygens like to learn and can be easy to train, but tend to do better when learning from a trusted owner because of their “stranger danger” tendencies. That said, because of this quirk their ability to be trained is especially dependent on the owner’s training skills. A complete novice will have a much harder time than an owner experienced with obedience training, as will a wishy-washy owner as Hygens won’t work for those they don’t respect. These hounds are intelligent but temperamental in this way. Establish a strict routine early on, and incorporate plenty of socialization opportunities in addition to obedience lessons.

The Hygen Hound typically lives between 11-12 years. Generally, the most common health issue in the breed is ear infections. Their floppy, hanging ears need regular cleaning and inspection as this type of ear is more likely to trap dirt and debris leading to issues. Other less-common health problems include a more-than-average tendency to bloat, some hip dysplasia and Von Willebrand’s Disease (a bleeding disorder). It’s very important to only buy puppies from responsible breeders who screen their dogs and keep track of health issues, making it more likely for their puppies to be clear of such issues.

While some Hygens are kept purely as companions it is very beneficial for them to be given opportunities to hunt! This helps give them mental stimulation as well as provides them with appropriate exercise, cutting down on potential behavior problems such as destructiveness, excessive barking and digging. As might be surmised, this breed should never be kept in an apartment setting. Hunting with the dog also enriches the bond between owner and hound! The Hygen requires lots of human interaction and attention every day. Hunting also will require little to no training on the part of the owner as these dogs have an innate instinct to track and go after prey.

Hygen Hound

Photo By Bjørn Konestabo

 

The Cimarron Uruguayo

The Cimarron Uruguayo is thought to be descended from dogs brought over to Uruguay by Spanish and Portuguese conquerors (possibly the Alano Espanol and similar breeds), which were later abandoned in huge numbers. These semi-feral dogs bred amongst themselves with only the strongest surviving. At first these wild dogs were considered a nuisance and a danger to livestock and people – and bounties were even offered up to those who would kill the dogs. Eventually, realizing that the dogs could actually be useful, ranchers would capture and re-domesticate them. The dogs were found to be fantastic guard dogs and could also be used to hunt large game as well as herding. Today, the breed is actually the mascot of the National Army of Uruguay! This molosser breed is rare in the United States (although recognized by the UKC), but is very familiar overseas and recognized by the FCI.

Cimarrons are incredibly brave dogs – a trait that is even noted in the standard. This said, they have a steadfast and calm temperament and when bred/raised correctly are very dependable. They are very loyal to their families and get along with children without issue as long as they had been socialized when young. They are, however, suspicious of strangers – never forget that this is a serious guard dog that will do his job if he feels it is necessary! Cimarrons are not for first-time dog owners and can be aggressive in the wrong hands. Furthermore, many of them are also not dependable around other dogs and can be dog-aggressive, regardless of how they were raised.

The Uruguayo is intelligent and trainable. This said, it takes an experienced person to work with this dominant breed! The better they are raised as a puppy, the easier training will go however most are stubborn, determined and domineering as a rule. Owners that don’t care about rules at all may end up with an aggressive and overbearing adult, so let us be clear… training and rules are 100% necessary for this breed! Be prepared to be very firm when setting down and enforcing rules. Novices should look elsewhere! Furthermore, the Cimarron requires mental exercise and does need a job to do in order to be happy and fulfilled. Obedience training can be used for a job in itself, and it can also be used to form the building blocks for learning other more specialized jobs!

The Cimarron Uruguayo isn’t apt to bark unless something is amiss, which makes him a fairly quiet companion most of the time. He can be kept in an apartment under the right circumstances, and as long as he is given plenty of exercise. Being high energy, he needs a fair amount of time to run each day. This is much more easily accomplished with a home on a large fenced property but a dedicated person in a smaller living environment can make it work if they spend lots and lots of time exercising the dog (this means 2 hours a day minimum). Take note that if he lives outside all day (not recommended) he will likely end up guarding the yard and could end up becoming a liability in the wrong circumstances. Just as he is not recommended for apartment living if the owner cannot exercise enough, he is also not recommended for owners who just want a dog to roam the property/yard unsupervised all day.

The coat of the Cimarron is short and smooth, with presence of an undercoat. A long coat is a disqualification. Most often they are seen in brindle although they can also come in any shade of fawn. Dogs are also allowed to either have a black mask and/or black shading, although it is not required. Some members of the breed have splashes of white, although any white must remain only on certain parts of the dog. Size-wise, these molossers aren’t particularly tall (small females can be around the 21 inch mark while a large male won’t top 24 inches) but in terms of mass they can be extremely large – as heavy as 100 pounds! One of the distinguishing features are the ears, which are often traditionally cropped in the shape of a puma’s ears – rounded all over. The crop is said to be done in homage to the dogs which were originally killed for bounty, in which bringing an ear would prove the dog had been slain.

Cimarron Uruguayo

Photo by Coquimbo58

 

The Shanxi Xigou

The Shanxi Xigou (prouncounced see-gow) is a rare Chinese sighthound whose ancestors date back thousands of years. In fact, drawings of similar dogs have been depicted on the walls of an ancient Qin Dynasty prince’s tomb as long as 2500 years ago! They were used by emperors to hunt “royal” game and some say that this breed is the predecessor to all sighthound breeds. Recognized only in China (and only since 2017), the breed will be petitioning to be accepted into the FCI once the population is larger. The name comes from Zhang Xian, a Chinese god who would often take the form of a dog.

The Shanxi is capable of doing guard dog duty along with his skills as a hunter and companion animal. Like most sighthounds, he is quite independent and even aloof to strangers, although quietly affectionate to those whom he knows and loves. As an active athlete, the Xigou needs regular exercise every day. A daily walk on lead (on lead because of high prey drive), supplemented by free running in a securely fenced yard is usually sufficient. He should also be given tasks which will promote both mind and body stimulation so dog sports such as rally or agility are great! Shanxi Xigou

Because of his independence and stubbornness to following commands, the Shanxi Xigou takes patience to train. This said, he is intelligent so an owner willing to put in the time and stay consistent will often see results.

One of the physical characteristics of the Shanxi is an unusual roman “ram’s head” type face. The standard actually states that two type of heads are allowed and the ram’s head shape is less preferred, however this shape is common enough that it is worth mentioning as a distinguishing feature. The breed also shares the typical lean frame of most other sighthounds. Like feathered Salukis (in fact, the breed has been called the Chinese Saluki), they have a short coat with longer fringes on the ears and tail. Colors include black, blue, silver, cream, white, red, and fawn. Brindle patterning is acceptable. A white tip at the end of the tail is a disqualification.