Bankhar Dog
Also known as: Hotosho, Hotosho Nokhoy, Bankhar, Banhar, Mongolian Wolfhound
The Bankhar Dog originates from Mongolia and Russia, weighing 50-60 kg and reaching up to 75 cm in height. The Bankhar Dog comes from Mongolia, Russia, and typically weighs 50–60 kg. Individual Bankhar Dogs vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Mongolia, Russia
- Weight
- 50–60 kg (110–132 lbs)
- Height
- up to 75 cm (29.5 inches)
- Colour
- red, black or black and tan
- Other names
- Hotosho, Hotosho Nokhoy, Bankhar, Banhar, Mongolian Wolfhound
About the Bankhar Dog
The Bankhar Dog originates from Mongolia and Russia, weighing 50-60 kg and reaching up to 75 cm in height. This breed is known for its robust build and herding abilities.
Overview
The Bankhar dog ( Buryat : хотошо банхар, Mongolian : хоточ банхар, Russian : Бурят-монгольский волкодав), is a landrace livestock guarding dog . Originally bred by the Buryat-Mongol people , their success contributed to their spread across Buryatia and Mongolia and into adjacent regions before they were nearly annihilated in the mid-20th century. Bankhar dogs are prized for their intellect and perseverance even in hostile weather conditions. They are loyal and affectionate with their families, but formidable against intruders, including humans, wolves, eagles and snow leopards.
History
While undoubtedly an ancient breed, genetic analysis indicates that the Bankhar dog is a basal breed and may be the progenitor of all livestock guardian dogs . Buryat legend states that the breed appeared as a huge ferocious dog that accompanied a giant descending from the mountains. The descendants of this dog are the Bankhar dog. Bankhar dogs are alleged to have participated in the raids of Genghis Khan , instilling fear in people and helping to capture villages and cities. Marco Polo was so impressed with the Bankhar dog that he brought one back home to Venice. Erich Von Salzmann describes this shepherd as a big, beautiful dog similar in size to a German Shepherd. It has a dark coat and is very fierce; the Bankhar attacks strangers mercilessly. Wilhelm Filchner gives an interesting account of a wild, big dog-monster the size of a bear. Children can play with these sensitive dogs, but these same dogs are not afraid of wolves and bears. As infrastructure and travel made the Bankhar dog''s native regions more accessible, non-native dogs began to intermix with the breed. During the Communist era of Mongolia, Bankhar dogs were let loose or exterminated to forcibly relocate nomadic groups into socialist-style settlements. Their pelts became fashionable for stylish Russian coats, and the largest dogs were killed to feed the growing dog coat industry. By the 1980s, the breed had almost disappeared. The decline of effective livestock guarding dogs has caused nomadic herders to resort to shooting or poisoning any threats toward their herds. As a result, there has been a significant decrease in the populations of gray wolves and snow leopards in these regions. There has since been renewed interest to preserve the breed in Russia and Mongolia; however the breed is still endangered.
Description
Bankhar dogs are a large, formidable breed with either a short or long coat in red, black, and black and tan. Darker dogs with light spots above the eyes are preferred, these are known as Mongolian Four Eye Dogs. The distinct markings help to distinguish dogs from wolves in low light conditions and Mongolian legend states that these dogs can see into the spirit world. Despite their size, they should be athletic, fast, cheerful, energetic, courageous and tireless dogs. In Buryat , they are called "hotosho", which means "yard wolf," and in Mongolian they are called "bankhar" meaning "chubby, fat, fluffy." Despite this name, Bankhar dogs are not a fat breed, just big at 50–60 kilograms (110–132 lbs) with a height of up to 75 centimeters (29.5 inches). Bankhar dogs have low calorie needs for their size. Despite their appearances, Bankhar dogs are only distantly related to the larger Tibetan Mastiff . Bankhar dogs are comparatively long-lived, averaging 15–18. Hip dysplasia and other joint issues are very rare. They breed once a year.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Bankhar Dog?
The Bankhar Dog is a landrace livestock guarding dog, known for its intellect, perseverance, and ability to thrive in harsh weather conditions. They are typically large in size, with a sturdy build and a distinctive appearance. Their coat can vary in color, but is often thick and weather-resistant.
Is the Bankhar Dog a good family dog?
As a livestock guarding breed, Bankhar Dogs are naturally protective of their territory and family. However, they may not be the best fit for every family due to their strong guarding instincts. With proper training and socialization, they can make loyal and loving companions, but may require more attention and exercise than other breeds.
What health problems do Bankhar Dogs have?
As a relatively rare breed, there is limited information available on specific health problems affecting Bankhar Dogs. However, as a large breed, they may be prone to joint issues and other health problems common to livestock guarding breeds. Regular veterinary care and genetic testing can help identify potential issues early on.
How much does a Bankhar Dog puppy cost?
The cost of a Bankhar Dog puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. As a rare breed, prices may be higher than for more common breeds. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 to $5,000 or more for a Bankhar Dog puppy.
Where do Bankhar Dogs come from?
The Bankhar Dog comes from Mongolia, Russia. 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 Bankhar Dog, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.