Rajapalayam dog

The Rajapalayam Hound, also known as the Polygar Hound or Indian Ghost Hound, is a southern Indian dog breed originating from the town of Rajapalayam in Virudhunagar, Tamil Nadu. This breed is renowned for its elegance, loyalty, and hunting prowess, making it a cherished companion of royalty and aristocracy in Southern India.
Four commemorative postage stamps were issued on 9 January 2005 by India Post for four breeds: Himalayan Sheepdog, Rampur Hound, Mudhol Hound (Face value ₹ 5 each) and Rajapalayam Hound (Face value ₹ 15). The Rajapalayam Hound is known to live up to 12 years of age.
The Rajapalayam Hound has a storied history dating back to the 18th century, when it was bred by the Nayak dynasty of Tamil Nadu. Known for its loyalty and hunting skills, the breed was primarily used to guard agricultural fields, livestock, and estates. During the Polygar Wars (1799–1805) and the Carnatic Wars, Rajapalayam Hounds were employed as war dogs, attacking enemy cavalry horses and protecting their handlers. Tipu Sultan, the ruler of Mysore, was known to have a significant collection of these dogs.
In recent years, the Rajapalayam Hound has seen a resurgence in demand as a guard dog, particularly in suburban areas with large independent houses. Increased power cuts, sterilization of stray dogs, and police advice to keep pet dogs for safety have contributed to this trend. According to Dr. K. Vairavasamy, Veterinary Assistant Surgeon, Madurai, "The trend has changed now as the demand is again picking up." R. Thangathurai, Assistant Professor at the Veterinary University Training and Research Centre in Rajapalayam, notes that the breed is gaining new acceptability due to its obedience to owners and ferocity with strangers.
The Rajapalayam Hound is a large, muscular dog, typically standing 65–75 cm (25–30 inches) at the withers and weighing between 30–45 kg. It is a sighthound, built for speed and endurance, with a deep chest and a slightly curled tail. The breed's facial structure is distinct, featuring a slightly larger head and powerful jaws, adaptations for hunting wild boar.
The most prized color is pure white, often with faint brown markings, a pink nose, and golden eyes. However, other colors, including black, brown, and spotted variations, have been observed. Historically, non-white puppies were often culled to maintain the breed's signature white coat.
The Rajapalayam's coat is short and fine, making it well-suited to hot climates but less tolerant of cold weather. Its gait is graceful, resembling the trot of a thoroughbred horse, and it is known for its double suspension movement.
The Rajapalayam Hound was once on the brink of extinction due to declining interest and crossbreeding. However, concerted efforts by the Government of Tamil Nadu and organizations like the Kennel Club of India have helped revive the breed. Initiatives such as the "Save the Rajapalayam Project" and participation in dog shows have raised awareness and encouraged breeding programs.
In recent years, the Indian government has taken a keen interest in promoting native dog breeds. During his ‘Mann Ki Baat’ address, Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of Indian breeds like the Rajapalayam, Mudhol Hound, and Chippiparai, urging citizens to adopt them. He also mentioned that the Indian Council of Agricultural Research (ICAR) is conducting research on native breeds to support their conservation.
The Tamil Nadu government established a breeding center for Rajapalayam, Sippiparai, and Combai dogs in Saidapet, Chennai, in 1980. However, the center was ordered to close in 2016 after the Animal Welfare Board of India (AWBI) raised concerns about inbreeding and the high prevalence of health issues among the dogs. Similarly, the Karnataka government inaugurated the Canine Research and Information Center in Mudhol to conserve the Mudhol Hound.
Despite these efforts, experts have cautioned against reckless breeding practices. Krithika Srinivasan, a senior lecturer in Human Geography at the University of Edinburgh, warns that breeding can lead to health complications, genetic issues, and behavioral problems due to human intervention. She emphasizes that native breeds, accustomed to rural settings, may struggle to adapt to urban environments. Theodore Baskaran, a wildlife conservationist, suggests that creating awareness about native breeds and their care should be the first step toward conservation. He also advocates for the use of microchipping to track the population and health of these breeds.
The Dog Breeding Centre in Chennai has played a crucial role in preserving the Rajapalayam Hound. Dr. S.S. Senthilkumar, Assistant Veterinary Surgeon at the Government Veterinary Poly Clinic in Tallakulam, notes that the department is keen to give this breed its due recognition. However, challenges remain. In-breeding has led to congenital problems, while cross-breeding with stray dogs has affected the physical stature of the breed. Dr. R. Uma Rani, Assistant Professor at the Veterinary Research Centre in Thirupparankundram, warns, "In-breeding should be avoided to prevent birth defects."