Dog Breed of the Month – Africanis
The Africanis is a blanket term for dogs that are native to Southern Africa and are one of only a handful of natural indigenous dog breeds in existence today. They evolved naturally over thousands of years, thereby adapting to the immediate climates and terrains they inhabited.
The Africanis is known as a ‘land race’ in that they evolved naturally without any human intervention or artificial breeding. Nature, not people, sculpted them to suit the environmental conditions of Africa.
Owing to both the Africanis’ tendency to breed prolifically, as well as their hardiness, today they a
re increasingly found in urban areas as opposed to formerly inhabiting mostly tribal rural areas of the Southern African subcontinent.
Dating all the way back to 7000 years ago, Neolithic herdsmen brought dogs with them from the Middle East into Africa, what was then known as a domesticated dog-virgin continent. Yet preceding the rise of Egyptian empires, the domesticated dog population increased rapidly along the Nile River, whilst seasonal trade and migrations simultaneously dispersed into Sahara and Sahel. Iron-using Bantu speaking communities, with their canine companions in tow, made their great voyage from the Cameroon grasslands to Southern Africa where they subsequently settled.
The Africanis Society of South Africa
Founded in 1998 by archeologist Dr Udo Küsel (former Director of the National Cultural History Museum, South Africa) and Johan Gallant (dog behaviourist and writer), the Africanis Society was formed with the objective to protect and preserve the Africanis as the native landrace.
The Africanis Society is intent on preserving the Africanis’ original state thereby preventing any transformation of this indigenous canine into a regimented dog breed. The society appreciates that the Africanis’ harsh, immediate environments have had a significant influence on many of their physical traits. The Africanis can now be identified as Africa’s distinctive native landrace by a genetic classification which yields a specific DNA indicator.
APPEARANCE
Bo
dy: The Africanis is slender yet muscular with an elongated body that is of medium size. Their ribs are just visible when in peak condition. They move with natural grace and ease, enhancing their stamina to trot for long distances over rugged terrain and steep slopes. When galloping, they can reach impressive speeds.
Face: Their expressive, oval-shaped eyes are rimmed with black liner and set in a cone-shaped head. Their lips and nose are usually a matching black. The ears are either carried erectly, half erectly or droopily and have no direct impact of the physical or mental health of the dog.
Coat Colour: The dog’s coat can be found in a wide variety of colours, with or without markings.
Coat Texture: Their double coats are typically short, coarse and thick. Some exceptions are known to possess a ridge along their backs.
This breed reaches a height of around 50 to 60cm in adulthood, and a weight of roughly 25 to 45kg.
PERSONALITY
For centuries, the highly intelligent Africanis roamed freely in rural settlements amongst communities, whilst simultaneously finding a balance for the need for human attachment as well as the need for their own space.
Africanis dogs are typically extremely friendly and loyal, and become very attached to their human owners. They can be territorial and are very watchful and protective of their loved ones, but are also affectionate and playful. Due to their traditional use as farm and hunting dogs, they have also developed a tendency to guard and protect livestock, and are also excellent trackers.
Their exposure to harsh conditions and treatment over the centuries means they have evolved into a tough, hardy breed with a highly attuned survival instinct, and can be nervous, jumpy or aggressive in the presence of strangers or in threatening situations. They are highly intelligent, extremely active and agile.
Training:
The Africanis is bound to its human family and territory, making it a breed of esteemed loyalty. They will follow their owners on a walk for many hours without being on a lead and are obedient and willing to please. Their high levels of intelligence make the training process a rewarding and bonding one.
HEALTH
The Africanis is a robust, healthy dog with few medical issues. Having evolved in unforgiving environmental conditions, they have developed a natural resistance to parasites, both internal and external.
They will, however, still require the appropriate vaccinations but costly vet bills should generally not be a concern.
They may, however, be susceptible to introduced diseases such as:
- Parvovirus: Canine parvovirus is an exceptionally contagious and fatal disease in dogs. The virus establishes itself in the small intestine, where it replicates, wiping out cells and damaging the stomach lining. It is especially worrying in puppies.
- Distemper: A highly infectious viral disease impairing the respiratory, gastrointestinal and central nervous system in dogs. The disease is brought on by canine distemper virus (CDV).
- Tick-bite fever: A parasite known as Babesia canis enters the dog’s body via a tick bite and destroys the dog’s red blood cells.
CARE
Grooming: Owing to their all-rounded resilience, this dog is extremely low on the maintenance front and subsequently easy to care for. The occasional bath and groom will be sure to put a wag in their tail.
Exercise: Their excessive energy levels requires them to get daily exercise and they will be intellectually stimulated by activities such as being taken on tracking dog trails or participating in agility competitions.
OTHER INFO
| Other names | African Dog, Bantu Dog, Umbwa Wa Ki-Shenzi, Hottentot Hunting Dog, Zulu Dog, Khoikhoi Dog |
| Group | Working Group |
| Life span | 10 to 12 years |
| Living conditions | This is an adaptable breed that can adjust to most living environments provided it receives decent care and exercise; however it is not ideally suited to apartments or indoor living. |
| Height | Average height of around 50 to 60cm |
| Weight | Average weight of roughly 25 to 45kg |
| Breeding info / Litter size | 2 to 8 puppies |
NOTE: At inFURmation we understand the need for breeds both cat and dog, however we encourage you to first look at your local shelter for pure bred cats and dogs before seeking out a breeder. There are also many pure breed rescue groups on social media that can assist with pure bred kittens and puppies or adult pure bred cats and dogs. If you are set on getting a kitten or puppy from a breeder please read our article “reputable breeder checklist” to make sure you are selecting an ethical, registered breeder and not just supporting backyard breeding.
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Disclaimer: The information produced by Infurmation is provided for general and educational purposes only and does not constitute any legal, medical or other professional advice on any subject matter. These statements are not intended to diagnose, treat or cure any disease. Always seek the advice of your vet or other qualified health care provider prior to starting any new diet or treatment and with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. If you suspect that your pet has a medical problem, promptly contact your health care provider.
