Africanis
The Dog of Africa
The Dog of Africa
The Africanis is a type of South African dog that is not recognized as a breed. They are believed to have existed for centuries, descending directly from the pariah dogs of ancient times. Africanis is also a name for all aboriginal dogs in Africa.
Appearance
Africanis are short coated, slender, medium-sized dogs that are capable of great speed. They can be any color and have a wide variety of markings. Occasionally they will have a ridgeback, like another African breed, the Rhodesian Ridgeback. The ears on the Africanis can be erect, half erect, or drooping.
History
The history of the Africanis begins with the Pariah dog. Pariah dogs are feral or wild dogs that have little or no interaction with humans. It is widely believed that pariah dogs are distinctly older than most other dog types and so far all DNA testing has supported this theory. It is highly likely that the Africanis are the direct decedents to the dogs found in Egyptian tombs and hieroglyphics.
Temperament
The Africanis has not been selectively bred by humans, allowing them to evolve and change through natural selection. Because of this the Africanis has adapted mentally and physically for life in Africa, but they can adapt to life as a household pet. Traditionally they have always lived near humans as well as other domestic animals. They get along well with children, and when raised along side other household pets they generally have no problems with other dogs or cats. Although they will bond with their humans they will always need space. The Africanis will always be cautious with new situations, as at all times it keeps a high survival instinct.
Health and Care
An extremely hardy and healthy breed, the Africanis needs no pampering or special food, having developed to survive off of scraps and leftovers. These dogs have over the years developed a natural resistance to many diseases.
The Africanis needs room to call its own and would probably do best in a home with at least a yard. As with all breeds it need daily walks and plenty of exercise.
The short coat of the Africanis requires very little grooming.
