The Canaan Dog was bred to herd and guard flocks in the Middle East.
Cave drawings from as early as 2200 B.C. depict dogs that resemble the modern
Canaan Dog. They are considered to be the National Dog of Israel and have
served as guard and messenger dogs for the Israeli army. They were recognized
by the American Kennel Club in 1997.
The Canaan Dog is an inquisitive, loyal and loving member of his family
but aloof with strangers. Because of their guard qualities, they tend to
bark more than some owners appreciate. They move with athletic agility.
The head of the Canaan dog is longer than wide and is wedge-shaped when
viewed from above. The drop off between the skull and muzzle (stop) is slightly
accentuated. The length of muzzle is slightly longer than the length of
the skull. The bite is scissors. The nose is dark to liver, depending upon
coat color. The eyes are dark to hazel, depending upon coat color also.
They are almond shaped and set at a slight slant. The ears are erect, medium
to large and set moderately low, making the head look wider than it is.
They have a slightly rounded tip. Ear motion contributes to facial expression.
The neck is well arched. The topline is level with a slight arch over the
loin. The chest is moderately broad and deep. The legs are straight with
catlike feet. Good reach and drive of the legs is important. The tail is
set moderately high and may be curled over the back when the dog is excited.
It should be long enough to reach the hock. The coat is double with a straight,
soft, short undercoat that lies flat to the skin. The outer coat is straight,
harsh and also lies flat. It is between one-half and one-and-a-half inches
in length. There is a slight ruff and the tail is bushy. There are two coat
patters. One is predominantly white with large body patches of color. A
mask of the same color as the patches is desired. The second is a solid
color, with or without white trim. Color may range from black through all
shades of brown. Gray or brindle are not accepted colors. Average height
is between eighteen and twenty-five inches. Average weight is between thirty-five
and fifty-five pounds.
ellen@canaandogsofanacan.com of UK writes:
A wonderful dog for people who love and respect a natural dog.
The Canaan Dog is one of the few natural breeds left in the world.
Designed by nature to survive, they are very intelligent, healthy and loyal
to their pack (which would be their human family in a domestic situation).
Wary of strangers, they are not in the least a dangerous dog. They are
excellent watchdogs p; not attack dogs p; and are wonderful with
young children, even when they are not your children. Their survival instinct
and natural intelligence has not been bred out of them, which makes them
easily trained, though easily bored as well. They adapt well to the routine
you give them p; not demanding of exercise, but happy to take all you
wish to give them. Loyal, loving companions, happy to be sit quietly with
you, they make fantastic companions for those who respect and love a natural
dog.