Himalayan Sheepdog

Origin and History

The Himalayan Sheepdog is a long-established livestock guardian dog bred in the Himalayan foothills of India and Nepal to protect flocks from snow leopards, wolves and bears. It goes by different names from region to region: in Himachal Pradesh it is called Gaddi Kutta because it is the dog of the Gaddi shepherds; in Uttarakhand and Nepal it is known as Bhotia or Bhote Kukur, and some sources call it Bangara or the "Indian leopard hound". The Kennel Club recognizes the breed under the name bhote kukur.

Appearance and Coat

It has a large, muscular and athletic body, combining mastiff and mountain dog traits. It has a dense double coat that protects against the cold, usually seen in black and brown shades. It is somewhat smaller than its close relative, the Tibetan Mastiff.

Temperament and Personality

It is brave, loyal and self-confident. It is devoted to protecting its flock and family and is wary of strangers. Because it can stay with the flock for days without a shepherd, it is used to making independent decisions: calm, yet fearless when needed. It adapts remarkably well to mountain conditions.

Care, Exercise and Training

Its dense coat needs regular brushing and sheds heavily during seasonal changes. It requires plenty of exercise and a lot of space; it is not suitable for apartment living. Because of its strong guarding instinct, early socialization and consistent training are essential, and its independent nature calls for an experienced owner.

Health

It is a hardy breed shaped by natural selection, with no known serious breed-specific hereditary disease. As with all large breeds, hip dysplasia and joint health should be monitored.