The American Indian dog is a breed originating in North America where they were bred to fulfill various functions: hunting, tracking, guarding or herding. One of the physical characteristics of this breed is its wolfish appearance. In addition, these dogs are very instinctive and territorial, as well as, they stand out for their versatility.
General details
The breed has a medium size and light build. The weight ranges from 11 to 22 kilograms, while the weight varies between 45 and 63 centimeters. Their life expectancy is 14 to 19 years and they are not recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI).
Breed history in brief
The origins of the American Indian Dog are unknown, it is believed that they have a long and ancient history and may have descended from indigenous dogs of North American Indian tribes. It is suggested that the inhabitants of North American Indian villages used dogs of this breed for hunting, herding and companionship. They were highly valued by the Indians and were considered a member of the family.
Kim La Flamme, in the 1960s, set out to breed dogs that resembled Native American dogs as closely as possible in order to preserve the breed. Even so, La Flamme points out that it is impossible to claim that these dogs are directly descended from Native American dogs. Another woman known as Karen Markel, in the 1970s, also became interested in this breed and began breeding them under the name "American Indian Dog". Her goal was to preserve the characteristics and promote them as a breed. Despite the work of these two women, some critics consider the American Indian Dog to be a mongrel dog that lacks unique ancestry.
Breed characteristics
The American Indian Dog has a straight back and slightly longer than high with a strong loin. The chest is deep, but not broad. The head is proportional to the body and has medium-sized almond-shaped eyes. Eye color ranges from pale yellow to pale blue and occasionally amber. The ears are somewhat long but erect with a triangular shape and a large amount of hair. Its tail is long and carried downward with a slight curve.
The coat is of medium length and glossy. The undercoat is short and thick, while the outer coat is longer. In the areas of the chest, neck, shoulders, tail and back of the legs, the length of the coat is longer than on the rest of the body. The color of the coat includes a wide range of possibilities: black, blue, white, red, golden, gray, red and tan, chocolate, etc. The colors blend smoothly, with few defined spots or lines between the colors.
The breed is recognized for its intelligence and versatility, as they can be trained for various tasks. Despite their wild appearance, they are friendly and outgoing dogs with strangers. American Indian Dogs are loyal dogs that require a great deal of daily physical activity.
Common health problems
As with other dog breeds, American Indian Dogs can be prone to health problems. Some of the most common disorders and diseases are hip dysplasia, progressive retinal atrophy, epilepsy and hypothyroidism.
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