By Macy Gen Veterinary AssistantMacy Gen Last updated: 21st March 2024

Native American Indian Dog

By

Macy Gen Veterinary Assistant Macy Gen
Last updated: 21st March 2024

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.

Native American Indian Dog Pictures

Quick Information

Other namesNAID
CoatShort and dense double coat: Undercoat – Dense, Waterproof; Outer coat: Longhaired
ColorSilver, black, yellowish-gold, tortoiseshell, red, blue
Breed typePurebred
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 Dog55 to 120 pounds
Litter size4 to 10 puppies on an average
Behavioral characteristicsLoyal, protective, loyal, patient
Good with childrenYes
Barking tendencyRare
Climate compatibility Do not adapt well to warm climates, particularly those with long hair
Shedding (Do they shed)Moderately low except during spring time
HypoallergenicNo
Competitive Registration Qualification/ InformationDRA, NKC, NAID
CountryU.S.A

Video of Native American Indian Puppy

History and Origin

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.

Temperament and Personality

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.

Care

Exercise

Because of their working dog origin, they need to be exercised regularly, requiring two brisk walks every day, alongside sufficient playtime in a fenced yard. Due to their high energy levels, they are not well suited for small homes but are apt for big and spacious households.

Grooming

They generally shed less barring the springtime when there is excessive hair fall. Brush the coat once in a week using a firm brush with soft bristles, though during the shedding season you need to comb it daily. Cleaning its eyes and ears, brushing its teeth as well as trimming its nails are the other grooming needs you need to follow.

Health Problems

One of the commonest problems faced by this breed is hip dysplasia. Hence care should be taken not to overexert or over exercise them.

Training

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.

  • Socialization training is needed to be given to the Native American Indian puppies so that they can understand the mindset of an unknown person visiting them and gradually get to know who has come with a good intention and who has evil thoughts in their minds.
  • They take command training very well and the word “No” needs to be taught to them very early in life so that they may refrain from doing any destructive deed the moment they hear this command

Feeding

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.

2 responses to “Native American Indian Dog”

  1. Roland Craft says:

    Can someone please help me I got this puppy when he was 8 months old now he is 12 months he has both sets of canines are curved he has splayed paws rounded tips on his ears all the traits of a wolf/NAID but how can I be sure without a DNA TEST?

  2. Enda Josephine says:

    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.

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