Gaddi Kutta

Gaddi Kutta is a breed of livestock guardian dog found in northern India, especially in the western Himalayas region and in the states of Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand. They are also called the Himalayan Sheepdog, Indian Panther Hound, as well as Mahidant Mastiff and Bhutia, the former pointing to the breed's skills and the latter to its origins.  Though initially bred for hunting purposes, the Gaddi Kutta is widely used by local shepherds, mostly Gaddis (from the South Asian tribe of the same name) and are reputed to be strong enough to repulse attacks by snow leopards, and to have the intelligence to herd stray sheep and goats back to their pens. 

They come in solid colours of black and tan, dark fawn and sometimes reddish, black and shadow white colour.  Working shepherds' dogs are shorter and lighter than those kept as pets.  The height of the male is 28-34 inches, and of the female 26-32 inches.  Weight of the male is 45–80 kg and of the female 35–60 kg. 

This breed is closely similar to Tibetan Mastiff and may be related to the long-haired Kinnaur Sheepdog of Tibet.  Naturally, Himalayan Sheepdogs enjoy outdoor lifestyles and are rarely seen beyond the regions of India.  As a powerful and robust breed, the Himalayan Sheepdog is mainly used for herding purposes.   The Himalayan Sheepdog is regionally popular as both a loyal companion as well as a working dog. 

Four commemorative postage stamps were issued on 9 January 2005 by India Post for four breeds (sic.)  i.e. Himalayan Sheep Dog, Rampur Hound, Mudhol Hound (Face value Rs.  5.00 each) and Rajapalayam (Face value Rs.  15.00)

Some famous blood lines of Gaddi Kutta include: bujus bloodline, spiti working line or Manali agroline. 

Etymology
The Gaddi Kutta takes its name from the Gaddi tribe of South Asia, while the word "Kutta" means "Dog" in Hindustani. 

Temperament
Due to its active nature, this breed is not meant to keep indoors for a long period of time or in an apartment.  The Himalayan Sheepdog is normally used as a herd dog or a watchdog and requires a great amount of outdoor exercise.  This breed may require obedience training in order to domesticate them.  Training this breed may be difficult due to its independent and stubborn nature.  Trust and dominance should be enforced when training the Himalayan Sheepdog.  To successfully train this breed, it is best to be stern when doing repetitive training exercises and to socialize them as puppies.  Proper care of this breed includes daily exercise and training.  Although this rustic breed may be inclined to be ferocious with strangers, they are loyal to their owners making them faithful companions.  Aside from being alert and territorial, they are also affectionate and gentle to their owners, making them suitable family pets.  It is advised that this breed should not be in the presence of other pets, as Himalayan Sheepdogs tend to show aggression and jealousy towards other animals. 

Health
The life expectancy of the Himalayan Sheepdog is ten years.  This breed is known to be relatively healthy due to their active lifestyles but is also prone to a few health concerns.  Some common health problems include hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, patellar luxation, arthritis, glaucoma, and obesity.  Proper care of this breed includes daily exercise and training. 

History
Although the exact origin of the Himalayan Sheepdog has not been well documented, they are believed to have a rich heritage in North India.  This breed is also believed to have been around since the ancient times of those regions.  Local tribes have used the dogs as guard dogs or herding dogs due to their known aggression and agility.  The Himalayan Sheepdog was most commonly used to herd and guard cattle from predatory animals.  Throughout their history, the breed was also used to hunt large game especially in the harsh terrains in its region.  Currently, this breed is common only within the boundaries of India. 

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See also
Bully Kutta
Bakharwal dog
Indian Spitz
Tibetan Mastiff

References

External links
 Bhutia Himalayan sheep dogs - Wild Films India
 The Gaddi Mastiff (with photos of adult dog and puppies)
 indiatimes.com Gaddi Kutta
 Bhotia Breeds by Barbara Gard
 Himalayan Sheepdog Article Indiatimes Article
 Toby Needs a Home Article by Czajkowski, Christine H.

Category:Dog breeds originating in India
Category:Dog breeds originating in Pakistan
Category:Livestock guardians

es:Pastor del Himalaya
fa:سگ گله هیمالیایی
it:Cane da pastore dell'Himalaya
ms:Anjing gembala Himalaya
ja:ヒマラヤン・シープドッグ
pt:Pastor do Himalaia
fi:Himalajanpaimenkoira
ta:இமாலய மேய்ப்பு நாய்
vi:Chó chăn cừu Himalaya