Kintamani Dog

Kintamani dog is a native canine breed indigenous to the Kintamani region of the Bali Island, Indonesia, though it is rarely found elsewhere away from its homeland. Characterized by a broad face, flat forehead, flat cheeks, thick, erect ears, dark-brown almond-shaped eyes and compact jaws, it has an attractive appearance quite different from an average village dog. Though unrecognized by any popular kennel clubs, efforts are being made to help it attain recognition by the “Federation Cynologique Internationale”.

Kintamani Dog Pictures

History

A lot of stories have been circulated regarding the origination of this breed. Some reveal that they might have come along with the Javanese traders or refugees in the 14^th and 15^th century respectively. Another popular folk lore is that a Chinese trader by the name of Lee came to Singaraja located in North Bali, with a Chow Chow dog accompanying him that was in turn crossed with the feral dogs of Balinese. Another story states it to descend from crossing a fox, wolf and dog. It is also said to be a result of crossbreeding a Samoyed with a White Malamute, mainly because of its close resemblance in appearance to both.

Genetic studies, however, states its probability of evolving from the local feral breeds of Balinese, also being related to other Asian dogs.

It has been estimated that at present there are approximately 12,000 Kintamani dogs around the Bangli Regency. In the year 2006 it obtained recognition in Bali under the category of “distinct dog breed”.

The authorities of the Bangli Regency always take the initiative of organizing exhibition and contests to popularize this breed so that it gets recognized and acknowledged by the international bodies.

Temperament

Having an independent nature this breed may be highly territorial on one hand leading to aggressive behavior when other dogs enter into its arena, yet displaying an affectionate and caring nature towards the family they dwell in. They display an intense sense of loyalty when associated with a particular owner. They would even mingle with kids in the family being their perfect playmate when brought up with them.

They are excellent climbers and would enjoy going up the roof or even spend an entire day sleeping or lazing comfortably upon the garden wall.

Being light-footed they move around with immense ease, and also serve as great guard dogs because of their alert and curious nature as well as their ability to let out a bark at anything strange they see or hear.

This breed is known to be great swimmers owing to their great love for water.

Training

• You can develop etiquettes in your Kintamani puppy by teaching it how to drink water from a bowl. Since it has a curious nature you can include ice cubes in the dish containing water. It might begin licking the cubes to find out what it is and in this way may result in drinking some of the water. Reward it with praises and treats when it succeeds in its task.
• To keep its territorial nature in check impart obedience training and make it used to commands like “Quiet”, “Stop”, “Settle”, so that it refrains from showing aggression when another dog or pet intrudes its territory. Acquaint him with different experiences so that he can distinguish the good from the bad and be slowly able to identify threats.

Feeding

You can feed your Kintamani twice or thrice a day with proper quality dog food along with dairy products, meat, cereals and vegetables to ensure proper nutrition.

Interesting Facts

• The Chairman of the National Narcotics Board Republic of Indonesia (BNN) has decided to train Kintamanis along with Beagles as sniffer dogs owing to their small stature that would help them access narrow areas with ease.