Kanni
Also known as: Maiden's Beastmaster
The Kanni is a small to medium-sized dog breed originating from India. The Kanni comes from India, typically weighs 16â22 kilograms, and has a short coat coat. Individual Kannis vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- India
- Weight
- 16â22 kilograms (35â49 lb)
- Height
- 64â74 centimetres (25â29 in)
- Coat
- short coat
- Other names
- Maiden's Beastmaster
About the Kanni
The Kanni is a small to medium-sized dog breed originating from India. It weighs 16-22 kg and stands 64-74 cm tall.
Name
The name Kanni means "pure" in Tamil and was given to this breed for its loyalty â purity of heart. The Kanni is also known as the Maiden''s Beastmaster for how voraciously it defends its territory against wild animals, and because they are often gifted to newlywed brides as their guardians. Although Kannis come in different colours, generally only the ones that were black and tan were given as marriage gifts. This practice led to the wrong naming of the black and tan coloured breeds as Kanni in dogs as well as goats. Even though the native people call this breed Kanni, the Kennel Club of India (KCI) registered it with two names. It registered the black and tan coloured dogs as Kanni and the solid-coloured variety as Chippiparai, respectively.
Overview
The Kanni (āŽāŽŠā¯āŽŠāŽŋ), meaning pure (also known as the Maiden''s Beastmaster ), is a rare indigenous South Indian sighthound breed of dog found in the state of Tamil Nadu . Their native breeding tract is located around villages in the Tirunelveli, Virudhunagar and Thoothukudi districts. The breed is used mainly for coursing . "Kanni" refers to the black and tan and black and sable varieties, while the solid-coloured variety is known as the Chippiparai . However, some experts claim that the Kanni and the Chippiparai are distinct breeds.
History
In the beginning, Kanni dogs existed only in several pockets of Southern Tamilnadu , especially in Southern districts such as the northernmost part of Tirunelveli , Tuticorin , and the southern part of Virudhunagar .
Hunting
Kannis are specially bred and used for hunting Indian hares . Like other hounds, Kannis use their speed and endurance to hunt their prey. They use their excellent sense of smell and sight to track and hunt their prey. Kannis are trained to obey subtle hand signals of their masters while on the hunt. Kanni dogs have been known to hit speeds up to 60 km/h. The key to the Kanni''s ability as a coursing dog can be found in its light but muscular build, large heart, double suspension gallop , and extreme flexibility of its spine, similar to that of Cheetah .
Temperament
The Kanni is usually shy, but will always defend its home or master if the need arises. The Kanni dogs are extremely faithful and easy to train, but they will think independently when on a hunt. They are very loyal to their family.
Colour types
Kannis have short coats, which can be brown with black, fawn (Santhana Pillai), light red (Sevalai) to dark red (Karum Sevalai), cream, white (Mayila Pillai), red with white, or pale grey (Sambal). Other colours include black with fawn markings (Paal Kanni), black with dark tan markings (Seng Kanni), black with fawn face and legs (Karung Kanni), fawn head and legs with rest of body being black (Parukki), and brown and white (Semmarai).
Characteristics
Kannis are medium-sized dogs, with straight top lines and tucked-up abdomens. Height at the withers is 64â74 centimetres (25â29 in) and weight ranges from 16â22 kilograms (35â49 lb) . They have straight heads, strong jaws, golden eyes and black noses. The ears are medium-sized and flat, and can be erect, dropping or semi dropping. The tail is semi curved. Kannis have a lifespan of 14 to 16 years.
Habitat and food habits
Kannis live in a temperate climate zone. They need free space and their own territory, and are not suited to city life. Kannis eat millet , corn, jowar , rice porridge with milk or curd, and non-vegetable foods.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Kanni?
The Kanni is a medium-sized sighthound with a straight top line and tucked-up abdomen. Height at the withers is 64-74 centimetres (25-29 in) and weight ranges from 16-22 kilograms (35-49 lb). They have straight heads, strong jaws, golden eyes, and black noses. Ears are medium-sized and flat, and can be erect, dropping, or semi-dropping.
Is the Kanni a good family dog?
Sighthounds, like the Kanni, are often independent and may not be suitable for families with small children. They require regular exercise and mental stimulation. With proper training and socialization, they can be a good fit for experienced dog owners who can provide the necessary attention and care.
What health problems do Kannis have?
Limited information is available on specific health issues affecting the Kanni breed. However, sighthounds are generally prone to bloat, eye problems, and injuries from high-speed activities. Regular veterinary check-ups and proper care can help identify and manage potential health issues.
How much does a Kanni puppy cost?
The cost of a Kanni puppy is not well-documented. As a rare breed, prices may vary depending on factors such as breeder reputation, bloodline, and location. Potential buyers should be prepared for a significant investment, with prices potentially ranging from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.
Where do Kannis come from?
The Kanni comes from India. 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 Kanni, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.