BAKHARWAL DOG

Apartment Living

Good for 1st Time Owners

Tolerance Levels

Affection for Family

Kid Friendliness

Stranger Friendliness

Ease of Grooming

General Health

Trainability

Prey Drive

Exercise Needs

Energy Level

History

It is said that the Bakharwal dog was obtained by crossing a wolf with a Molosser sheepdog approximately 300 years ago. However, its history is still a matter of debate. But it is a fact that the breed originated in Jammu & Kashmir, a state of India and 2 nomadic groups bred them namely ‘Gujjars’ and the ‘Bakarwals.’ They are mostly seen in the Pir Panjal mountain range (Northern Himalayas).

Temperament & Personality

Bakharwals are independent by nature, loyal and ferocious protectors. They are fearless even against animals larger than their size. It will always stand by their owner and do everything to protect their family and property from intruders. These qualities make them excellent watch & guard dogs. They are aggressive and not suitable for families with other canines as pets. However, as puppies, these dogs show signs of wandering off or escaping.

Care

Exercise

They don’t suit well to an apartment life and they need a medium sized yard for their daily exercise. Involve them in vigorous activities like running as well as playing should in their day-to-day routine. The owner must keep the right balance between the physical as well as mental health of the dog.

Grooming

The grooming needs of a Bakharwal is minimal. Brushing their coat four to 5 times a week will be enough. The double coat requires trimming periodically, or else it may develop a dense coat.

Health Problems

This breed is immune to many adverse diseases and infections. Common issues are patellar luxation, obesity, bloating, canine hip dysplasia, and cryptorchidism.

Training

Obedience training is crucial as they will often demand things which the owner might not want to give them. It gets bored quickly, so make sure the training is fun and exciting. Introduce games which provide mental stimulation like games and puzzles. Teach it social skills so that it doesn’t act aggressively in front of other people.

Feeding

Bakharwals are vegetarians and they love drinking milk and eating bread. Belonging to the nomadic background, they refrain from eating meat and live on milk products and bread.