Askal
Also known as: Ayam Aspin
The Askal is a generic term for a stray dog found in the Philippines, often resulting from mixed breed ancestry. The Askal comes from Philippines. Individual Askals vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Philippines
- Other names
- Ayam Aspin
About the Askal
The Askal is a generic term for a stray dog found in the Philippines, often resulting from mixed breed ancestry. Originating from the Filipino term "asong kalye," it refers to dogs living on the streets.
Names
By the late 20th century, dogs commonly seen wandering the streets were called " askal ", a Tagalog -derived portmanteau of asong kalye , which literally means street dog . In 2007, the Philippine Animal Welfare Society (PAWS) suggested the alternative term " aspin ", short for asong Pinoy ( Pinoy dog) to avoid the stigma associated with the term " askal ". In Cebuano , dogs are called irong Bisaya, which literally means " Visayan dog" or "native dog", [ a ] implying that these are not thought of as a mixed-breed dog so much as unbred mongrels with no purebred ancestors. This is only from a Visayan point of view since irong Bisaya does not differ in character or physical appearance from the other askals found in the Philippines. Physically, the dogs have "all shapes, configurations and sizes."
Overview
Askals , also called aspins , are a diverse population of mongrel free-ranging dogs found in the Philippines . The term "askal" is a portmanteau from the Filipino language asong kalye , meaning " street dog ". It is a neologism , commonly used as a derogatory term for describing stray or mixed-breed dogs that roam the streets of urban and rural areas across the country. It is considered to reflect class discrimination in the country, particularly towards indigenous elements. The euphemism "aspin" is a portmanteau of asong Pinoy , meaning "Filipino dog". The origins of askals can be traced back to two main categories. Firstly, some askals are entirely descended from indigenous dog breeds that have evolved over time in the Philippines. Secondly, it is believed that dogs were introduced into the country from Mainland Asia, via Taiwan. Excavation sites reveal that dogs served two main purposes: consumption and companionship. Tagalogs, along with other ethnolinguistic groups like the Kalinga and Bontoc, were known to have domesticated these dogs into hunting companions, often forming close bonds, mourning their deaths, and burying them near their owners. They may have even been given the same burial treatment as humans. These native breeds have adapted to the local environment and exhibit a range of physical characteristics and temperaments. These dogs have since played an integral role in the lives of Filipinos, serving as loyal companions, guardians, and even working animals. Askals often display a unique blend of characteristics from various ancestral backgrounds. This diversity contributes to their distinct appearance, temperament, and adaptability. They are highly adaptable and resilient dogs, capable of surviving in challenging conditions. They possess the ability to navigate the urban landscape and survive on scraps and leftovers. Their resourcefulness, intelligence, and innate street-smarts have earned them the nickname "asong kalye," reflecting their association with the streets. In recent years, there has been a growing movement to celebrate and protect the cultural heritage represented by askals. Various organizations and animal welfare groups are working towards providing medical care, shelter, and adoption opportunities for stray and abandoned dogs. Additionally, initiatives have been launched to educate the public about responsible pet ownership, including spaying and neutering programs, vaccinations , and proper training. August 18th is National Aspin Day, an annual event.
Appearance
Aspins do not have clear lineages that contribute to what they look like today because they are bred from a diversity of mutts and mixed breeds that roam around Filipino streets. However, they have a few distinct characteristics. Given their varied background, aspins can come in different shapes, sizes, and colors. The coat can be short-haired or rough. Coat colors ranges from black to brown, white, ginger, brindle , gray, cream, and red merle . Spots are commonly found at the base of the tail and on the back in semi-circular fashion. The snout sometimes appears black if the coat color is brown. The tail is usually held high and the ears can be floppy, semi-floppy or fully pointing upwards. The bone structure of a native Askal is on the medium range, never heavy as with the Rottweilers .
In popular culture
The Philippines national football team are nicknamed "Azkals", after the dog. This is also referenced in a satirical educational institution and Internet meme named the " International State College of the Philippines " as '' Blue Aspins ''
Interactions with humans
Askals is the Filipino word often used to refer to stray mixed-breed, indigenous dogs. According to the Philippine Animal Welfare Society , there are over twelve million strays in the Philippines as of 2019 [ update ] . Many consider it a problem because these dogs can go without much food or shelter their entire lives. The term "askals" can also refer to a domesticated, indigenous mixed-breed dog. They have been raised traditionally as guard dogs. They are naturally fearful and suspicious of strangers, independent and protective of family members. They are good with young children as companions, due to their devotion to family members. They are trusted by their owners to roam markets or the neighborhood to socialize with other dogs which is why some domesticated dogs are seen by Westerners as stray dogs when in fact they may not be. They are, however, expected to be home before dusk, especially males who always look for females in heat. Female dogs do usually stay home and are excellent watchdogs. Askals were allowed to compete in the First Philippine Dog Agility Championships in 2013. At the 2015 Pet Express Doggie Run in Pasay , askals were the featured dog. The dogs featured in an essay by Gilda Cordero-Fernando . Askals have also been trained by the Coast Guard and private security agencies as bomb and drug detection dogs .
Philippine Forest Dog or "Aso Ng Gubat”
The Philippine Canine Club, Inc. formally introduced the Philippine Forest Dog or "Aso Ng Gubat", (i.e. Irog, Mayumi and Mutya) in the Philippine Circuit Show 2024 (January 17–21, 2024), Asia''s biggest dog show at the Araneta Coliseum . The Club "hoped it will be the first dog breed from the Philippines that will be recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale ." "The Aso Ng Gubat is a primitive breed that has been formed through natural selection by its interaction with the environment so it''s a purebred as compared to the Aspin or Askal which is a mongrel, and it has been living with indigenous Filipinos such as the Aetas and Negritos in the country''s forests way before the Spaniards arrived," PCCI Corporate Secretary Fred Salud said.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Askal?
Askals are a diverse population of mongrel dogs, varying in size, coat type, and color. They are generally medium-sized, with a muscular build and a short, smooth coat. Their ears can be erect or floppy, and their tails are often long and bushy. Their intelligence, energy level, and temperament can also vary greatly.
Is the Askal a good family dog?
As a mixed-breed dog, Askals can make good family pets for active families. However, their temperament and behavior can be unpredictable due to their diverse ancestry. Proper training, socialization, and care are essential to ensure a harmonious household. With patience and understanding, Askals can form strong bonds with their families.
What health problems do Askals have?
As a mixed-breed dog, Askals can be prone to various health issues, including hip dysplasia, patellar luxation, and eye problems. They may also be susceptible to parasites, skin allergies, and infectious diseases. Regular veterinary check-ups, vaccinations, and preventative care can help mitigate these risks.
How much does a Askal puppy cost?
The cost of an Askal puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. In the Philippines, Askal puppies can range from PHP 500 to PHP 5,000 (approximately USD 10 to USD 100), although prices may be higher in urban areas or with reputable breeders.
Where do Askals come from?
The Askal comes from Philippines. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Askal, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.