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Gaddi Dog of the Himalayas Officially Recognised by ICAR-NBAGR
Context:
The Indian Council of Agricultural Research-National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (ICAR-NBAGR) recently recognised the Gaddi dog, an indigenous breed from the Himalayan region. This recognition marks a significant step in conserving this rare and endangered canine breed.
About the Gaddi Dog:
- Location: The Gaddi dog, also known as the Bhote Kukur or Bhotia dog, is a hardy and strong breed primarily found across the Himalayan range from Jammu and Kashmir to Arunachal Pradesh, with significant populations in Himachal Pradesh.
- Nomenclature: These dogs are named after the Gaddi shepherds of Himachal Pradesh, who rely on them to guard their flocks against predators like snow leopards and wolves.
Key Characteristics:
- Appearance: Medium-sized, robust build with long, predominantly black fur and occasional white markings. They are distinguished by their massive, arched necks and harmonious body structure.
- Behavior: Known for their strength, loyalty, and ability to fend off wild carnivores, earning them nicknames such as the “Indian Panther Hound” and “Indian Leopard Hound.”
- Breeding: These dogs have a litter size of 4-8 pups, and a lifetime whelping capacity of 8-12.
- Origins: Believed to have descended from the Tibetan Mastiff, although they are less bulky and have unique characteristics such as a lion-like tufted mane.
Reason for This Step:
The recognition of the Gaddi dog by ICAR-NBAGR aims to address the alarming decline in the breed’s population. According to estimates, fewer than 1,000 Gaddi dogs remain today due to:
- Dilution of the gene pool: A lack of breeding programs has led to crossbreeding and loss of purebred individuals.
- Lifestyle changes: The decline of the nomadic lifestyle among Gaddi shepherds has reduced the demand for these dogs.
- Unregulated breeding: The absence of scientific validation and recognition allowed breeders to misrepresent the Gaddi dog.
Criteria for Selection as an Official Breed:
To qualify as an official breed, the following criteria were applied:
- Morphological and genomic characterisation: Comprehensive studies conducted by researchers, including those at the Conservation-Cum-Propagation Centre for Gaddi Dogs in Himachal Pradesh.
- Breed-specific traits: Distinctive physical and behavioral characteristics that set the breed apart from others.
- Geographic uniqueness: Adaptation to the cold Himalayan climate and its historical significance to local communities.
Benefits of Being Recognised as an Official Breed:
The recognition of the Gaddi dog brings several advantages, including:
Other Breeds Recognised
The Gaddi dog joins the ranks of three other officially recognised indigenous breeds:
- Rajapalayam (Tamil Nadu)
- Chippiparai (Tamil Nadu)
- Mudhol Hound (Karnataka) This makes the Gaddi dog the first officially recognised Himalayan dog breed.
- Preservation of genetic resources: Defined characteristics will help maintain the breed’s purity.
- Conservation programs: The Animal Husbandry Department can now initiate census and breeding initiatives.
- Increased demand: Registration will likely boost demand for Gaddi dogs, both as working dogs for shepherds and as pets for households in colder regions.
- Regulation of breeders: Recognition provides guidelines to ensure ethical breeding practices.
