The King Cheetah

cheetah, (Acinonyx jubatus), one of the world’s most recognizable cats, known especially for its speed. Cheetahs’ sprints have been measured at a maximum of 114 km (71 miles) per hour, and they routinely reach velocities of 80–100 km per hour while pursuing prey. Nearly all the cheetahs remaining in the wild life in Africa.

Cheetahs are covered almost entirely with small black spots on a background of pale yellow and have a white underbelly. Their faces are distinguished by prominent black lines that curve from the inner corner of each eye to the outer corners of the mouth, like a well-worn trail of inky tears. Cheetahs have a long, slender body measuring 1.2 meters (4 feet), with a long tail (65–85 cm [2–3 feet]) that generally ends in a white tuft. They are about 75 cm tall at the shoulder. Weight ranges from 34 to 54 kg (75 to 119 pounds), males being slightly larger than females.

Natural history

Cheetahs have evolved many adaptations that enhance their ability to sprint. Their legs are proportionally longer than those of other big cats; an elongated spine increases stride length at high speeds; they have unretractable claws, special paw pads for extra traction, and a long tail for balance. Internally, the liver, adrenal glands, lungs, bronchi, nasal passages, and heart are all large to allow intense physiological activity. During a chase, cheetahs take about 3¹/₂ strides per second and 60 to 150 breaths per minute. Chases are usually limited to sprints of less than 200–300 meters, however, because the increased physiological activity associated with running creates heat faster than it can be released through evaporative cooling (sweating through their paws and panting).

Early taxonomists interpreted the numerous specialized traits of cheetahs as evidence that they diverged from the other cat species early in the evolutionary history of the cat family (Felidae). The cheetah was therefore granted unique taxonomic status, and since the early 1900s it has been classified as the only species of genus Acinonyx. Cheetahs are often divided into five subspecies: A. jubatus jubatus in Southern Africa, A. jubatus fearsoni (including A. jubatus velox and A. jubatus raineyi) from eastern Africa, A. jubatus soemmeringii from Nigeria to Somalia, A. jubatus hecki from northwestern Africa, and A. jubatus venaticus from Arabia to central India. The king cheetah, once thought to be a distinct subspecies, is a Southern African form that has a “blotchy” coat pattern presumably from a rare recessive genetic mutation.

Numerous molecular genetic studies suggest that the cheetah shares a common ancestor with the puma and jaguarundi, from which it diverged six to eight million years ago, probably in North America. Fossils attributable to cheetahlike species dating from two to three million years ago have been found in North America in what is now Texas, Nevada, and Wyoming.

source :

Animals

animals

10 June، 202111 August، 2021

Different Types of German Shepherds

If you were looking to adopt an intelligent and cute puppy that you could play with, go on walks together, and who would also protect you & your home by being the most vigilant guard, then you must look no further than the German Shepherd.

German Shepherd is perhaps the most widely recognized and loved dog breeds in the world. They are one of the best guard dogs that are so good at it that almost all of the police dogs in the USA are German Shepherds.

German Shepherd Dog Price: German Shepherd cost around Rs. 5,000 to Rs. 20,000 in India. On average, the cost of a German Shepherd ranges from $500-$1,500 in the USA.

About German Shepherd Dog Breed:

The German Shepherd is a breed of working dogs originally from Germany. Originally named Alsatian Wolf Dog in the UK, its name changes to German Shepherd in 1977.

The German shepherd is a working dog developed for herding sheep. But in modern days it is used for many types of work, including disability assistance, search-and-rescue, police and military roles, and acting.

The German Shepherd is the second-most registered breed by the American Kennel Club and the seventh-most registered breed by The Kennel Club in the United Kingdom.

How Many Types of German Shepherd Dogs are there?

These cute yet ferocious little bodyguards are categorized into two breeding types, the “working line” and “Show Line.” You would be surprised to know that there are 5 different types of “show line” German Shepherd dogs that you can find. The most popular distinction that separates them among their different types is the color of their coats.

German Shepherd is also sometimes differentiated by the length of their hair and coat, but that is generally done only for purebred German Shepherds. Apart from being characterized based on their looks, they are also differentiated based on their personality and health, which is known as “working lines”.

List of 5 different types of German Shepherds based on their looks and coat patterns:

1. Saddle Coat German Shepherd

The German Shepherd dogs of this type are also called Saddle Back Shepherds. They are the most recognized German Shepherds of all time. There are two colors present on their coat, as with all other German shepherd types apart from the solid black shepherd. It is their distinct pattern and markings that set them apart from the other types.

The ‘saddle’ in the name “Saddle Coat German Shepherd” refers to the black fur patch on the back of the dog, which resembles the shape of a saddle on a horse. Quite a lot of people also call this type of fur pattern as ‘blanket’ pattern, which is also appropriate in the sense that the black fur represents a blanket on top of them. The color on the fur other than the saddle part is usually tan and sometimes red.

2. Black German Shepherd

These types of German Shepherd dogs are also called ‘Solid Color German Shepherd’. They are much less common as compared to the saddleback German Shepherds. You would also sometimes find accents of powdered blue color on their coats, but this is rare and these types are not considered to be solid by various dog breeding competitions.

If a German Shepherd has this blue pigment on his or her coat then your puppy would surely be accepted in the competition, but they would lose points because of their color.

3. Panda German Shepherd

Panda German Shepherds have a striking appearance of white, black, and hints of tan. They are called “Panda” because of the similarities in the appearance of their coat with pandas. Mostly their belly, chest, mouth is white in color, their back is dark and their legs are tan. This type of fur pattern is not considered to be very common.

The Panda like the appearance of these dogs is due to a genetic mutation. Having this pigmentation on their fur does not mean that they are a mixed breed as a lot of people might tend to think. Having this type of fur color might make some breeders skeptical about the health of the dogs, but they are as agile, healthy, and strong as any other German Shepherd Dogs.

4. Sable German Shepherd

The Sable German Shepherds are one of the most beautiful and unique dogs in their appearance. They are technically referred to as ‘agouti’ in many regions. This pattern known as Sable or Agouti does not manifest in a patchy manner as it does with the saddleback or the panda German Shepherds.

In fact, this unique color pattern of fur develops all over their body. The agouti shepherds are not born looking like this, the color of their coat develops gradually and becomes stronger as they get older. Some colors may be more dominant than others due to their genetic predisposition.

Usually, the color of their coat is an amalgam of black, grey, tan, or gold. At the time of their birth, the Sable German Shepherd puppies are generally tan in color and then their coat begins to develop stronger colors as they get older.

5. White German Shepherd

The white German shepherd is also a part of the Solid German Shepherd type. The only difference is that the dominant color of their fur is white instead of black which makes them genetically predisposed to develop beautiful and luscious white fur.

The only genetic difference between the two Solid German Shepherds is that the Black Shepherds have their color due to a recessive gene, whereas the White Shepherds have their color due to a dominant gene. You should not confuse white German shepherds with albinism because that is a completely different genetic factor. These white German shepherd breeds are very rare, this could be due to their disqualification from the competitors.

Best Working Lines of German Shepherds?

1. The West German Working Lines

The West German Shepherd working lines are considered as the original German Shepherds bred by Max von Stephanitz, who was the founder of the German Shepherd dog breed. These dogs were bred with a focus on their ability to work, learn, as well as listen, rather than a focus on their appearance. They are considered to be of the highest quality.

2. Czech Working Lines

The Czech German Shepherds have a lot of similar characteristics to wolves as compared to all of the other German Shepherd breeds. These Czech German Shepherds were bred specifically to guard and patrol the border of the country.

They make exceptional family pets and guard dogs. These dogs are often recruited by police departments, search and rescue teams, and other such organizations that require an intelligent and capable working dog.

animals
German Shepherds
dogs
pets
animals
German Shepherds
dogs
petsanimals
German Shepherds
dogs
petsanimals
German Shepherds
dogs
petsanimals
German Shepherds
dogs
petsanimals
German Shepherds

9 May، 20219 May، 2021

10 of the fastest dog breeds

Over the last few centuries, certain types of dogs have been bred for hunting and racing purposes. But many of these speedy breeds make great pets as well! Are you looking for an active, energetic canine who loves to run?

Check out this list of 10 of the fastest dog breeds:

Greyhound
Greyhounds make up the fastest dog breed in the world. In fact, according to the Minnesota chapter of Greyhound Pets of America, these canines can run up to 45 miles per hour! Though greyhounds love to sprint, they’re actually quite calm when they’re at home. This gentle giant can make the perfect pet for an active family with older, more mellow kids.
Saluki
This medium-sized dog was bred in the Middle East for chasing fast prey. According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), Salukis are very active, so it’s best if they live somewhere that has a large, fenced-in area where they are free to run and romp.
Afghan Hound
The Afghan hound is one of the oldest known dog breeds in the world. In fact, this breed is thought to date back thousands of years! Though Afghan hounds have an elegant appearance, they have quite a silly personality.
Vizsla
According to the AKC, this medium-sized dog is active, affectionate, and gentle. Bred in Hungary for pointing and retrieving, a vizsla can make the perfect pet for an energetic family.
German Shepherd
The German shepherd is the second most popular dog breed in the world. Though these fiercely loyal canines are often used as police and military dogs, they make fantastic pets. If you’re thinking of adding one to your family, be sure to remember that German shepherds need lots of room for exercise and play.
Dalmatian
The super-active Dalmatian is known as both a fire dog and a popular pet. If you’re on the hunt for an intelligent canine that loves to exercise, look no further! Dalmatians have a high endurance level, which makes them ideal running companions.
Borzoi
Also known as a Russian wolfhound, the borzoi was bred to hunt wolves. Though these regal, dignified canines make great family dogs, they can also be quite independent. If you decide to add a borzoi to your family, be sure to provide him with plenty of room to partake in his favorite activity: sprinting.
Whippet
A descendant of the greyhound, the whippet is a fast, playful, mellow and loyal dog. These qualities make the whippet a great family pet.
Scottish Deerhound
Though the sweet, intelligent Scottish deerhound might look like a fuzzy mutt, this is not the case! These canines were actually bred in Scotland for deer hunting. If you’re on the hunt for the perfect family dog, look no further than this gentle and affectionate breed. After one look at that big, goofy face, you’ll be smitten.
Jack Russell Terrier
The smallest entry in this list of the fastest dog breeds is the Jack Russell terrier. These playful working dogs, which were bred to hunt foxes, love to be the center of attention. Named after an English clergyman, the Jack Russell makes a perfect family pet. Best of all, these canine companions tend to live long, healthy lives.

3 May، 20219 October، 2021

What are the most loyal animals?

Have you ever wonder what are the most loyal animals? Some animals are more faithful to their own kind than others and we would also look at the most loyal pets you can have.

we won’t talk just about the most loyal animals to humans.

What are the most loyal animals?

These are the most loyal animals:

Dogs
Ducks
Parrots
Cats
Rats
Wolfs
Elephants
Dolphins

Let’s take a look at what makes these animals so loyal and great as pets.

We will also take a closer look at what it takes to raise a pet to become loyal.

Table of Contents

Let’s start by looking at which animals are most loyal to HUMANS.

List of The Most Loyal Pets You Can Keep

Dogs

Are Dogs the most loyal animal in the world?
They might be. Dogs are probably the most loyal pet you can have. Most dogs will try to find their way back to you if they wander off.

This is also one of the main reasons people referred to dogs as “man’s best friend”.

A lot of people keep loneliness at the door by keeping a dog. They will typically sit patiently and wait for their owner to return in front of a store. And they will show joy whenever you come home from work or school.

So why is it that dogs are so loyal to you?

The answer here is probably that you feed them regularly. Domesticated dogs have to rely on you to give them food so they would not wander off and disappear.

Ducks

Ducks are amazing.

You need to raise them yourself so you should get very young ducklings. They would love to snuggle with you and you can spend a lot of time with your ducklings.

They are very social creatures and they will see you as their family.

People have described them as being a mix of puppies and children. They are playful and you can do a lot of fun stuff with them. They love to go out in the garden and they are great around kids.

Parrots

You need an intelligent animal if you want it to be loyal.

Parrots are well-known for being very smart and they can even talk and repeat words you say.

They will definitely recognize you (and often your friends and family too!) and they will show signs of affection when you come home. That’s just the best to come home to after a long day at work or at school.

Another great thing about parrots is that they lived much longer than other birds.

Macaws can live for up to 80 years! That means you can have it as a baby and keep it for your whole life. Here you can read more about the average lifespan of animals.

Some people have reported that their parrot will choose one soulmate among the family. So let’s hope you are the lucky one to become the animal’s favorite!

Cats

Cats can be loyal pets too.

But they are more independent and antisocial than dogs. A cat will want to be left alone during parts of the day.

Few animals have been bred for domestication and pets as long as cats. That also means they are far away from the behavior of their wild cousins.

Rats

You probably wouldn’t have guessed, would you? But rats can be fantastic pets.

They love to play with you and they can learn to do all sorts of tricks. I’m top of that, they do not take up much space and they are also very cheap. You just need to make sure they have enough vertical space because they are very creative animals who left to climb.

A rat can be very loyal and they will remember you for a long time.

Here you can read more about how to keep rats as pets. You will be surprised to find how many tricks and wonderful things that they can do.

What Are The Most Loyal Dog Breeds?

We all want our dogs to love us and stay close to us for a long time.

When we are looking for the most loyal dogs you can have as a pet we should pay attention to which breeds we use for service dogs.

You want the service dog to be super loyal and always stay at your side. It’s no good if the dog all of a sudden wanders off or gets distracted when it sees another dog.

These are some of the most used service dogs:

Golden Retriever
Labrador
German Shepherd
Poodle
Collie

I used to take care of a service dog for around half a year and it was a Golden Retriever dog. It was the most loving and affectionate creature you could ever have.

It was very loyal and would always stay at my side whenever I took it out for a walk.

It is probably also one of the most intelligent dogs I have ever encountered. Golden Retrievers and labradors can learn a huge amount of tricks.

This again shows how intelligent they are and an animal needs a certain level of intelligence in order to show loyal behavior.

You might also remember the Lassie books. I used to read these stories as a kid every year. I love how this Collie dog named Lassie would find its way home to its owner over a long distance.

How To Make My Pet More Loyal?

The best way to make sure your pet will stay with you and love you is to get is as a baby.

Choose a dog that lives long

Pets do not live as long as you and I so you need to keep them for as long as possible in order to form a good bond with them.

This doesn’t really make a difference if your pet only lives for a couple of years. So you need to choose a pet that will live for at least five to ten years in order to have the best chances here.

Here you can check out which dog breeds will live the longest.

Train it well

You need to show the little animal that you are the leader.

This is especially important when we are talking about dogs. Luckily enough, there are a ton of courses and videos online where you can get good tips on how to train your dog to become more loyal.

Again, we need to start as early as possible. It’s not easy to teach an old dog new tricks, as we say.

Be a good example

You also need to treat it well. That animal needs to trust you.

In order for the animal to trust you, it needs to learn that you will always be there. You need to feed it well and take care of it

The Most Loyal Animals In The Wild

We find many species that are very family-oriented.

These are also some of the animals that live longer. On top of that, we are looking for animals which are very intelligent.

Elephants

Elephants have been observed to live in large family groups.

You will often find up to 20 elephants in a herd and they will generally include several generations and cousins as well.

They will live and travel together in this group and they will take good care of each other. They will make sure everybody gets along and they will also rush in to keep babies out of strong river currents.

Wolves

Another animal with strong family bonds is the wolf.

Wolfs are very loyal to their own kind and they will stay in what we call “Wolfpacks”. There’s a good reason why we always refer to “wolfpacks” as a very closely knit group of individuals.

They have been obsessed to sacrifice their own life in order to protect the safety of the whole pack. This is not something you normally see among wild animals.

Dolphins

Dolphins are also super social and you might remember that they are very intelligent creatures.

You can teach dolphins and a long list of tricks which you might have seen in marine parks or on TV. They are very caring towards their own kind and they will help each other out in case of shark attacks or other dangers.

According to BBC, five Dolphins showed exceptional loyal behavior toward another Dolphin in 2013. They were able to observe five Dolphins trying to save another Dolphin after an attack from predators.

They would take turns trying to keep the animal above water (crucial for their survival).

Which Animals Represent Loyalty?

Panthers.

In traditional imagery and modern days tattoos, Panthers are a symbol of loyalty.

We haven’t been able to find any sources to back this up but it seems like Panthers are often used as symbols of companionship.

Which Animals Are The Least Loyal?

Let’s turn our attention to some of the most lonesome and solitary animals on the planet.

Here’s a list of animals who prefer to live alone. They would be the least loyal animals:

Red Pandas
Tortoises
Sloths
Wolverines
Polar Bears
Skunks
Leopards

They have their own reasons to do so but typically they are hunting alone. Other animals will hunt in groups in order to catch bigger prey.

3 May، 20213 May، 2021

Fennec Fox (Desert Fox): Species Profile

Fennec, (Fennecus zerda), desert-dwelling fox, family Canidae, found in north Africa and the Sinai and Arabian peninsulas. The fennec is characterized by its small size (head and body length 36–41 cm [14–16 inches], weight about 1.5 kg [3.3 pounds]) and large ears (15 cm or more in length). It has long, thick, whitish to sand-coloured fur and a black-tipped tail 18–31 cm long. Mainly nocturnal, the fennec spends the heat of the day underground in its burrow. It feeds on insects, small animals, and fruit. Its litters of two to five young are born after a gestation period of about 51 days.

The name fennec is sometimes erroneously applied to the South African silver fox and to Ruppell’s fox (see fox).

Fennec Fox Behavior and Temperament

Although fennecs typically live in groups in the wild, they tend to be somewhat independent as pets. They might enjoy playing with their humans at times, such as an energetic game of fetch. But then there will be other times when they prefer to play alone. In addition, the majority of pet fennecs will allow people they know to pick them up, but most don’t seem to enjoy handling overall.

Fennecs are cautious by nature, and they are quick to flee if something frightens them. While most would rather choose flight over fight, they will bite if something truly angers them. Some fennecs, especially unneutered males, will also mark their territory with urine—including the inside of your home.

These animals make a variety of vocalizations to express their moods, and some can be very loud. They’re certainly not a good fit for someone who prefers a quiet pet. Some fennecs will get along with other household pets, especially dogs and cats around their size. Introduction at a young age will help them coexist more peacefully with other animals, as well as bond with their human family members.

Expect to spend a lot of time and effort keeping your fennec exercised. They are quick, active, and agile animals. Fortunately, many fennecs will adapt to their human schedule, rather than remaining nocturnal. Fennecs can be trained to walk on a leash, which helps to get some of their energy out each day.

Housing the Fennec Fox

As desert animals, fennecs require temperatures of at least 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If you live in an appropriate climate, an outdoor enclosure that’s as large as possible is ideal to give your fennec some exercise. Many people make their own outdoor pens out of wood and wire screening. The pen must be designed to prevent your fennec from digging under or climbing over the walls, both of which these foxes are quite good at doing. (They can dog holes 20 feet deep!) To stop your fox from digging under the walls, build the pen over pavers, concrete, or wood decking, preferably with a layer of sand or dirt over the top for a more natural environment. And either angle the fencing in at the top, or cover the whole top of the enclosure with screening.

You can let your fennec run around in a fenced yard, as long as you have a secure 5- to 6-foot fence. But always supervise your fox to make sure it doesn’t start to climb or dig under the fence. You also can put your fox on a long leash to let it run around outside, as long as it’s under your supervision.

While indoors, your fennec will likely jump on furniture and could potentially knock over decorations and other items as it plays. So it’s important to put away breakables and anything that might injure your animal. Fennecs generally should be kenneled when you’re not able to supervise them simply because they will get into everything. If you don’t have a suitable outdoor pen, use a dog crate indoors.

Furthermore, some fennecs can be trained to use a litter box indoors. A covered box works best due to their tendency to dig. (A lot of litter will fly out of the box otherwise.) The training process involves taking the fox frequently to the litter box and giving lots of treats when it succeeds in using the box. You can use the same method to train the fox to relieve itself outdoors. Never punish an animal for accidents in the house.

What Should a Pet Fox Eat to Stay Healthy?

Food and Water

In the wild, fennec foxes are omnivores that eat a varied diet of meat and plants, including rodents, birds, insects, and fruit. An optimal diet for a pet fennec fox is a commercial wild canid diet, which is what many zoos feed them. But most owners feed their fennecs a mix of dog food, cat food, vegetables, and fruit. It’s especially important to make sure a fennec’s diet has an adequate amount of taurine, an amino acid that’s key for many metabolic processes in the body. Consult your veterinarian on the right quantity and variety for your fox, as this can vary depending on age, size, and activity level.

Most owners feed meals twice a day, though you should follow your vet’s recommendations on this. You can simply put the food in a bowl for your fox, or you can hide some in a treat puzzle to give your pet some mental enrichment. Also, provide a bowl of clean water at all times.

Is It Legal to Own a Pet Fennec Fox?

Laws about owning a fennec fox vary widely depending on the jurisdiction. Most parts of the United States have some regulations regarding fennecs—from outright bans to simply requiring a permit. Plus, some local laws might conflict with state laws, so be sure to check the regulations for exactly where you live.

Moreover, it is vital that you acquire your fennec from a reputable breeder or rescue organization. While the odds are slim that you’ll find a seller of wild-caught fennecs in the United States, it’s still important to ensure your fennec was captive-bred. These animals generally adapt to life in captivity much better than an animal that previously lived in the wild.

Purchasing Your Fennec Fox

Expect to spend around $1,500 to $3,500 on average for a young fennec from a reputable breeder. A price less than this is usually a red flag and potentially the sign of some sort of scam. Also, you might have to travel a great distance to a breeder, as there aren’t that many across the U.S. Some sellers will ship their foxes to you, but this can be very stressful for the animal. Plus, it’s best to check out the animal and the seller in person before committing.

Make sure the seller can give you thorough information on the animal’s origin and health history. Also, try to secure references from other people who have gotten a fox from that seller to make sure the seller is trustworthy. In addition, breeders should be licensed by the U.S. Department of Agriculture. While they’re more expensive, it’s best to acquire a newly weaned young fox, rather than an adult. You’ll have better odds of your fox growing up to be tame and friendly this way. A healthy fox will typically be alert and active, though it might be shy around you at first.

3 May، 20213 May، 2021

6 Ancient Dog Breeds That Originated in Egypt

Some of the oldest dog breeds can be traced back to ancient Egypt. It’s often suggested that it was the ancient Egyptians that domesticated dogs. A tomb dating back to 3500 BC shows a painting of a man walking a dog on a leash. These dogs closely resemble the ancient civilization’s hieroglyphs and tomb drawings of Egypt’s iconic dogs.

Some of these ancient dogs have developed into the native Egyptian dog breeds that we know today. Other neighboring Middle Eastern, Mediterranean, and African countries have made these original breeds their own.

Breed Characteristics

The dogs originating from Egypt come primarily from a hot, dry desert or North African Mediterranean climate. Their bodies match well with those climates—not well suited for Arctic climes or humid tropics. These intelligent, high-energy dogs were also bred for an active, working lifestyle as hunters, shepherds, or guard dogs. Today, these breeds follow in the pawprints of their ancient ancestors, requiring plenty of exercises, mental stimulation, and a sense of purpose.

Here are 6 Egyptian dog breeds to consider if you’re interested in having one of the world’s ancient breeds.

Saluki

GROUP: Hound (AKC)

HEIGHT: 23 to 28 inches

WEIGHT: 40 to 60 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Feathered or smooth coat; softly feathered ears; white or cream, fawn, black and tan or grizzle and tan, and golden coat colors

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 10 to 17 years

The elegant and athletic Saluki means “noble” in Arabic and is one of the oldest dog breeds. Their history goes back at least 5,000 years. Ancient Egyptian tombstones and sculptures feature dogs resembling the modern-day Saluki. The pharaohs prized these dogs for their regal looks and athletic hunting prowess—as did other prominent leaders through history, like Alexander the Great. The breed spread across the Middle East, Egypt, and Asia over the years, brought by nomadic tribes.

Like many sighthounds, the saluki is incredibly fast and usually has a high prey drive—not suited to home life with other small furry pets. If they get plenty of exercise, salukis are known for being docile and enjoy curling up in the home. They have an independent, stubborn streak, are sensitive, and require gentle, positive reinforcement for training results. Not known as a cuddly breed, salukis will still form strong bonds with their family and are prone to separation anxiety if left alone for too long.

Basenji

GROUP: Hound (AKC)

HEIGHT: 16 to 17 inches

WEIGHT: 20 to 25 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Smooth, short coat in chestnut red, black, brindle, or tricolor (black and red); all have white feet, chest and tail tip; may have white legs, blaze, and collar

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 13 to 14 years

The basenji, or in African languages its name translates to mean “dog of the bush, village, or wild,” is another old breed. It also bears a striking resemblance to dogs depicted on Egyptian pharoah tombstones. Over the years, tribes in Central Africa valued the breed’s excellent hunting skills. The breed has remained relatively untouched by selective breeding. The basenji you see today closely resembles its ancestors from thousands of years ago.

Basenjis are loyal, gentle and alert, but can be stubborn and require extra patience during training. They tend to be reserved and even aloof with new people but form strong bonds with their families. Don’t expect a lapdog with a basenji, though. They will seek attention on their terms, compared often to cats. This breed is an attractive choice for people who live in apartments since it doesn’t bark. Still, it requires moderate exercise to prevent problem behaviors from surfacing as a result of boredom.

Ibizan Hound

GROUP: Hound (AKC)

HEIGHT: 22 to 28 inches

WEIGHT: 45 to 50 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Coarse hair that can be smooth or wiry; comes in solid red, solid white, or white and red patterns

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 14 years

Strictly speaking, the Ibizan hound is considered native to the Balearic Islands, off Spain’s coast. These elegant sighthounds are another breed that can easily trace their original lineage back to Egypt that made their way to Spain by ancient Phoenician sea traders. Looks alone tell the story of this breed that appears strikingly like dogs seen on various tombstones and historical artifacts in Egypt.

Food could be scarce on the Mediterranean islands, and these agile, leaping, high-speed dogs were determined hunters that navigated the rugged terrain to bring back rabbits for their people. High-energy, strong prey drive, great-stamina dogs, Ibizan hounds are best suited to living in active homes with no small animals. With plenty of exercises, they are calm, gentle, and relatively quiet around the home.

Pharaoh Hound

GROUP: Hound (AKC)

HEIGHT: 21 to 25 inches

WEIGHT: 45 to 55 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Short, smooth glossy coat that only comes in shades of tan; noble and athletic in appearance with large, pricked ears

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 14 years

Like the Ibizan hound, the pharaoh hound is another ancient breed that can trace its origins back to the land of the Nile; its name is a nod to its ancient Egyptian heritage. It made its way to Europe from Phoenician traders and developed further on the Mediterranean island of Malta.

The breed shares similar traits with the Ibizan hound in terms of looks and temperament. It was also primarily used for hunting rabbits; in Maltese, this energetic breed is called “kelb tal-fenek,” meaning “rabbit dog.” They’re less reserved than the Ibizan hound with a friendly, playful nature, making them good companions for respectful children. Born to run and hunt, this dog is best suited for an active home—one that doesn’t have small, furry animals.

Baladi Street Dog

GROUP: Not a recognized group; mixed breed

HEIGHT: No particular size, described as “medium-sized”

WEIGHT: Medium-sized generally means between 20 and 60 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Brown, beige, black, and white

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 12 to 14 years

While Baladi dogs are not a pure breed, this dog is the most common in Egypt. It descended from a mixture of salukis, pharaoh hounds, and Israeli Canaan dogs. These native stray dogs are prolific on the streets and across the rural countryside of the country. They share similar characteristics with some of their purebred relatives, including large pricked ears and a slim physique. They look less refined but are full of character and make good companion dogs.

Over the years, these dogs have grown in numbers, becoming a nuisance. Many locals grew to revile and even abuse them, although an international outcry shined a light on this issue. Several successful spay and neuter campaigns have helped curbed overpopulation, and Baladi dogs are being rescued overseas and within Egypt through local adoption programs.

Armant (Egyptian Sheepdog)

GROUP: Not in a recognized group

HEIGHT: 21 to 23 inches

WEIGHT: 50 to 65 pounds

COAT AND COLOR: Medium-length, coarse, rough, shaggy coat; comes in black, tan, gray, and yellow

LIFE EXPECTANCY: 14 to 15 years

The Armant is a farm and herding breed that may have originally descended from the French Briard herding dog. It is thought to have been brought to Egypt by Napoleon’s armies. This breed was developed by mixing with local dogs. The dog’s name originates from the town of Armant in Egypt, its supposed place of origin in the early 1900s. The breed is not known much outside of Egypt but is used extensively within Egypt as a herding dog and a livestock guard dog. This breed is highly loyal, bonds closely with its owner, and acclimates well to life with children in the home.

Breeds to Avoid

Egyptian dog breeds proliferated over time and more than 1,000 miles for their energetic drive and skill as hunters, herders, and protection. If you value these breeds’ high energy, intelligence, and determination to get a job done, then some dogs that might disappoint are dogs known for their lounging, lapdog tendencies. These lower-energy dogs also look nothing like Egyptian breeds: mastiffs, Cavalier King Charles spaniels, and Chihuahuas.