Dog Breeds: American Indian Dog

There's a great deal of debate surrounding the origins of the modern American Indian Dog. Some claim they are an ancient breed while others are certain that the current American Indian Dog is merely a recreation of a much older breed. In the end, it doesn't really matter. What matters is that there is an American Indian Dog and its popularity is growing slowly but steadily.

The American Indian Dog is medium in size with a light build. They can be up to 20 inches tall, but they only weigh 60 pounds at their heaviest. The ears are pricked and very pointy while the muzzle has a natural look. The eyes are medium in shape and have a slanted appearance. Acceptable eye color includes yellow, blue, gray, or even silver. The color and the shape of the eyes give the impression that the dog is staring right into your soul.

The nose and lips should be black, though liver is an acceptable color for some coat colors. Teeth should come together in a scissor bite. The tail should be plumed and medium in length. It should be carried with a slight curve, though this curve should never extend over the back.

This sturdy breed has a medium-length coat that is shiny and thick. Hair is longer on the tail, ruff, shoulders, chest, and on the back of the legs. Acceptable colors include blue, black, chocolate, cream, fawn, gray, golden red, red and tan, silver, tan, and white. All colors should have sable shading with darker tipped guard hairs. There should be very little spotting or defining marks between the colors, meaning the colors on the coat blend together seamlessly. Some white on the chest, collar, feet, and tip of the tail is accepted but not desired.

The American Indian Dog is a true pack animal so it tends to bond intensely with its family. They are quite territorial and don't like unknown people or animals in their space. Wary of strangers, they make good watchdogs. This breed is also highly intelligent and easy to train. Sometimes the American Indian Dog will try to take charge of the entire family, but a strong pack leader (a human one) can normally head this off.

With its ability to adapt to most environments and its overall health, this is a good choice for a family pet or companion dog. It should be noted, however, that the American Indian Dog is not recognized by all associations.