Kumaon Mastiff Dog Breed Information

Kumaon Mastiff (also known as Cypro Kukur) is a rare dog breed, originated in India. These dogs were originally bred as guarding dogs in the hilly areas of Kumaon (Uttarakhand, India). It is estimated that there are only 150 to 200 Kumaon mastiff dogs are remaining in India.  Many dog lovers believe that the primary reason for this small number is the ignorance and the preference for popular dog breeds such as the Doberman, Pomeranian and Rottweiler. Exceptionally powerful, these dogs are tireless workers and definitely need to be saved.

General Information

 Star Rating:

Characteristics	Stars (based on 5)	Characteristic	Stars (based on 5)
Kids Friendly	(3)	Social Needs	(3)
Friendly with other dogs	(3)	Stranger Friendly	(3)
Need of Exercise	(2)	Territorial Aggression	(5)
Grooming Requirement	(2)	Intelligence and Trainability	(3)
Adaptability to environment	(5)	Guarding Ability	(5)
Affection Level	(5)	Health Related Issues	(4)
Apartment Friendly	(3)	Obedience	(5)
Tendency to bark	(1)	Playfulness	(2)
Cat Friendly	(5)	Level of Shedding	(3)

 Is Kumaon Mastiff dog breed suitable for you?

More information about Kumaon Mastiff:

• History

It is believed that this rare dog breed has its origins in the Himalayan Mountains, where these dogs were bred by the native Indian tribe (Kumaon). Some other dog experts theorized that these dogs were first originated in Cyprus before these were propagated to the Himalayan regions; hence, they are also called Cypro Kukur that means Cyprus dog in the Kumauni language. Somehow, Kumaon Mastiff dogs have close resemblance with the Indian Mastiff dogs.

Some dog breeders, who had great interest in this dog variety, introduced this breed to Europe In the late 19th century. Particularly, these dogs were introduced in Finland and Italy where there are still a good number of these dogs may be found.

• Description

The appearance of Kumaon Mastiff is similar to the old Great Danes. Kumaon Mastiff comes under large dog breeds. They have fairly lean, well-boned, muscular bodies. The head of these dogs is large powerful and they have strong neck. They have a soft, short coat that comes in white and brindle (ranging from dark to light shades). These dogs also have white markings and 28 inches is the average height of these dogs.

• Personality

These dogs are known to be an aggressive and fierce breed which can be sometimes difficult to handle. Therefore, proper training and socialization is required for this dog breed at an early age so as to tame its warrior-like spirit. Once this breed of dogs gets use to the command or instruction of the trainer, it can be good-natured and gentle. It is recommended to socialize these dogs at an early age so that they can adapt well to their home environment with the human companions and other pets in the house.
By owning this breed of dogs at a young age and giving it with consistent and firm training can make these dogs domesticated. These dogs are loyal companion and have great guarding ability. They can show protective instinct from intruders or strangers once they get close to their trainer/ owner.

• Health problems with Kumaon Mastiff

As Kumaon Mastiff is a pure, primitive breed of dogs, they don’t have observable genetic disorders. However, just like other dogs with age some health problems may be encountered in these dogs. Some major health issues in these dogs are Canine Hip Dysplasia (CHD) and Gastric Torsion. These dogs can also suffer from Ectropion, Elbow Dysplasia, Persistent Pupillary Membrane (PPM), Progressive Retinal Atrophy (PRA) and Vaginal Hyperplasia.

• What to feed

Being a large dog, Kumaon Mastiff requires meal management in such a way that it should not be overfed. These dogs may experience bloating (a condition where there is building up of air in the dog’s stomach which can be fatal) therefore you should provide fibrous dry food to these dogs in small quantity divided in three times a day.

• Grooming and care

The short coat of Kumaon Mastiffs is easy to care for. You should brush the coat with a rubber curry brush every week. Generally, these dogs shed moderately. They shed heavily during spring and fall shedding seasons.

You should bathe your dog only when he is dirty. But, if you want to bathe your dog every week, you can. Just use an anti-flea shampoos that are gentle and made for the dogs. The rest is basic care for this dog. You should trim the nails of your dog as needed, usually every week or two. Also, brush his teeth with pet toothpaste (vet-approved) for fresh breath and good oral health. Some grooming kits that can ease your grooming task are:

• Choostix Doggie Dip Skin & Coat Dog Shampoo 200 ml
• All4Pets Pin Brush
• PetaSOFT Hot Chocolate Fudge Conditioner
• Pets World Nail Cutter for Dogs and Cats
• Drools Fubbles Conditioning and Detangling Dog Shampoo