Kumaon Mastiff

The Kumaon Mastiff (AKA, Cypro Kukur) is a very ancient livestock guardian breed, indigenous to the Kumaon region of the Himalayan Mountains in the present-day state of Uttarakhand, India. Currently, with about 150-200 specimens remaining, this dog is extremely rare even in the area of its origin. They have a lean, muscled body with massive strength. The head is large and broad with almond eyes, a dark muzzle, and hanging ears. The tail is long, while the skin is somewhat loose, especially around the neck region.

Kumaon Mastiff Pictures

History & Development

The real history and origin of this dog are still mysterious. Many researchers believe that the foreign explorers to the Cyprus region imported these Kumaon watchdogs, where the Indian tribesmen initially bred them. Thus, this breed also got its alternate name ‘Cypro Kukur’ in the local Kumaoni dialect (with the word ‘kukur’ meaning dog).

Experts have also hypothesized that this animal had descended from the large, solidly-built Molosser dog breeds, while another group of experts contradicts that, there is a higher chance of this dog to be a distant cousin of the Indian Mountain dog breeds.

Some historians also believe that conqueror Alexander the Great brought this breed in around 300 BC, during his excursions to the Indian subcontinent.

However, despite all these arguments, there is no documented evidence in support these beliefs. Unfortunately, even though it is a vulnerable breed, it has not yet received any official recognition from any of the kennel clubs.

Temperament & Behavior

Kumaon Mastiffs are extremely loyal to their masters and family members. It has a strong protective instinct which often shows up as aggression while guarding its house against strangers and intruders; an instinct that also makes it a good guard- and watchdog.

If this dog gets bored too often, it might get destructive. However, it is quite friendly with kids and other pets, especially when it gets the right training, and is socialized regularly. Assertive and rigid training sessions from a tender age can make them gentle and sweet-natured in general.

Training

• Like most guard and watch dogs, the Cypro Kukurs tend to bark, if provoked. To help your dog keep its barking under control, it’s advisable that you just ignore your dog when it yells. Never shout back, but instead, keep such things away from it that you think might motivate it to bark. Teach it simple commands and signals (like ‘Quiet’ or ‘Shhh’), and reward it with its favorite snacks for obedient behavior.
• To reduce chances of aggression or destructive behavior, keep your puppy busy and tired with lots of toys, games, and activities like playing, jogging, walking to burn down calories during the daytime, inducing it to sleep quietly at night.
• Socialize your Cypro Kukur by taking it to places (like different dog parks) where it can witness other dogs playing peacefully with their human companions. Plan for pet parties and ask your friends to drop in with their pets. Arrange for interactive (but not competitive) games between your pup and others’ pets. Such moments of fun with other animals and humans would surely help your dog suppress its inherent aggressive attitude.

Diet/Feeding

4.5-6 cups of dry dog food (kibbles) are enough for the adult Kumaon Mastiff. Divide this quantity into two halves for two meals. If your dog prefers meat, serve it raw.

Interesting Facts

• Because of their similarity in appearance, Kumaon Mastiffs are often mistaken for Great Danes at the first glance.