Chippiparai

The Chippiparai is a sighthound breed of dog from the south of India. Thought to be a descendant of the Saluki or Sloughi, today it is found in the area around Periyar Lake. It is used primarily for hunting wild boar, deer and hare. It is also used for guarding the home. Bred by royal families in Chippiparai in Virudhunagar district Tamil Nadu, it was kept as a symbol of royalty and dignity mostly in Tirunelveli and Madurai rulers.

Description

Appearance

The typical color is a fawn, reddish brown, black tinged coat, silver-grey, with very limited or no white markings and long curved tail. Other colors, particularly variations of grey and fawn, also occur. This is a medium dog, around 25 inches or 63.5 cm at the withers., in a recent study males averaged approximately 63.0 cm and females approximately 56.0 cm at the withers. It has a short coat that is very close; on the whole the coat if kept groomed has a shine on it. A shining, shell-like appearance is greatly desired. This kind of coat makes it ideal for hot climates. This hound is also less prone to ticks and fleas, with their short coat providing easy detection. The overall appearance is very similar to that of the Sloughi, or the Rampur Greyhound.

Temperament

The Chippiparai is a robust animal needing little or no veterinary care. It is so active during young stages. It does need lots of exercise, as it was and is a breed meant to hunt. Chippiparai is an intelligent breed and a wonderful watch dog. Contrary to the belief that it is a one -man dog, Chippiparai gets along well with people if it is properly socialized. Chippiparai loves human companionship and it hates to be in isolation. It is capable of great speed and can overtake a hare with ease.

The Chippiparai is not a fussy eater. It is easy to groom and does not shed much due to its short coat length.

Health

Generally the breed is healthy. Though sturdy enough to cope within limited means and harsh weather conditions, the breed does suffer from cold weather. They have certain general health issues such as: sensitivity to anesthesia and food allergies.

Future of the breed

The breed is rare in dog show circles and the blood line may be lost soon.