The Native American Indian Dog is a feral breed of ancient origin, rarely found in the wild at present. Medium to large, some of their characteristic features include a broad, angular-shaped head, prick, upright ears, slender muzzle, almond-shaped eyes bearing an intelligent look and a tightly curled tail.
Other names | NAID |
Coat | Short and dense double coat: Undercoat – Dense, Waterproof; Outer coat: Longhaired |
Color | Silver, black, yellowish-gold, tortoiseshell, red, blue |
Breed type | Purebred |
Average lifespan | 14 -19 years |
Size | Large |
Height of a full grown Native American Indian Dog | 23 to 34 inches |
Weight of a full grown Native American Indian Dog | 55 to 120 pounds |
Litter size | 4 to 10 puppies on an average |
Behavioral characteristics | Loyal, protective, loyal, patient |
Good with children | Yes |
Barking tendency | Rare |
Climate compatibility | Do not adapt well to warm climates, particularly those with long hair |
Shedding (Do they shed) | Moderately low except during spring time |
Hypoallergenic | No |
Competitive Registration Qualification/Information | DRA, NKC, NAID |
Country | U.S.A |
The Native American Indian Dog is an ancient breed and perhaps the last of the canines which served as the perfect companions to the Americans since ancient times. Before the introduction of horses, these dogs engaged in a host of tasks like pulling a sled, carrying loads, as well as helping in game hunting and protecting women and young kids.
There is, however, a lot of argument regarding the lineage of this breed. Some think that they have descended from the pet dogs of the Native Americans, while a few believe that it is the same as the Carolina dog or maybe an immediate relative of it.
Karen Markel, belonging to the Majestic View Kennels, took initiatives of recreating the existing breeds and crossed them with a whole lot of dogs like the Alaskan Malamute, Siberian Husky, German Shepherd, and Chinook. Presently the American Rare Breed Association and the National Kennel Club recognizes the NAID. Since they were reserved and secluded from human habitation for a long time, they generally do not do well in homes, unless raised in a family since birth. They serve as great working dogs at present employed in several tasks like hunting, assistance dogs for the disabled, therapy dogs, skijoring dogs as well as rescue animals.
When brought up in a family, since their puppy days, they turn out to be highly loyal and affectionate dogs, bonding intimately with the members. They are great protectors, keeping a close vigil on their kith and kin as well as the properties of the household they dwell. They have a shy demeanor when strangers are around, but not aggressive or attacking, a quality that does not make them excellent guard dogs. The NAID shares a great rapport with kids alongside other dogs, pets and even livestock.
They are intelligent but highly sensitive to training. Hence you need to be firm with them but not harsh as it could have an adverse effect, making these dogs unwilling to respond to what you say.
Always give them dog food of a good quality containing sufficient amount of proteins and fats. While mixing homemade food in its kibble, make sure you give it in measured amounts.
The native American Indian dog is just a recreation to mimic what is seen in paintings and pictures. they are made up of various breeds from around the world including Huskies, Malamute, German shepherds, etc…. I know because I have one. A woman named Karen something or another to find the breed in the 80s or 90s. as far as the timidity and shyness noted, that is typically correct. Not always but many times. Also, they are not great protectors because they are so timid and shy with strangers. as far as training, it is correct that they need firm but not harsh training. They are very sensitive dogs. However, they do not train easily. They are very stubborn. Period. Very smart… But very stubborn.