Africanis dog - TOP 10 Interesting Facts

1) Landrace
The Africanis is a so called landrace dog, which means, that they evolved naturally as a result of environmental adaptation and natural selection and not by deliberate breeding made by human. Landrace dogs could also be named as aboriginal or indigenous. Landrace dogs are typically very hardy and healthy, adaptable and self reliable and indeed, most Africanis are just like that.
2) Origin
The exact history of these dogs is mysterious, as there are not many historical records about them, but it is generally believed, that they may be descended from ancient Egyptian dogs found throughout the Nile Delta several thousands years ago and that over the time migrated all across the Africa, first throughout the Sahara and later they reached South Africa as well. The Africanis are landrace dogs of South Africa or from the sub-equatorial Africa.
3) Name
The dogs name Africanis is a junction of two words, Africa and Canis, which is a latin word for dog. So the dogs name literally means a dog from Africa, even though, it is only used for dogs of Southern Africa. Africanis has been known under many other names, such as Bantu dog, Hottentot hunting dog, Tswana dog or Zulu dog.
4) Utilization
The Africanis has almost always been attached to human settlements in southern Africa, where they would help them with various tasks, such as guarding or herding. Africanis can also hunt smaller game quite effectively. As you can see, this is truly versatile breed capable of almost any kind of a job, which is why they were popular companions of many African tribes.
5) Companions
Of course, Africanis are not only working dogs, but also friendly and loyal companions. They can be little bit watchful and protective over its family and Africanis are typically alert towards strangers. But when they are with its family, they are typically relaxed and affectionate dogs, that can be good lively partners for older kids. Of course, you should never leave any dog breed, with a very young child unsupervised. Africanis can also live with other dogs in the family, especially if socialized together from the puppyhood.
6) Size
The Africanis is a slender and athletic, yet pretty muscular dog with elongated body of medium size. The typical height is between 50-62 cm, which is 20-24 inch and weight is usually between 25-40 kg, which is 55-88 lbs. Females are naturally slightly smaller than males.
7) Coat and color
The coat of Africanis is typically short, thick and coarse and this dog can be found in almost any color or color combination, with or without white markings. The most common colors include shades of fawn, brown, brindle or black.
8) Maintenance
Speaking of the coat, it is important to mention the maintenance as well and luckily, it is very easy with the Africanis. Even without any grooming at all, these dogs will keep their coat in great condition. Of course, regular brushing is only beneficial, as it will remove any loose hair and dirt from the coat. Just like with any other dog breed, you should regularly check their eyes, ears, nails and teeth and clip or clean them if needed.
9) Hardy dogs
Over the centuries, Africanis dogs were exposed to harsh conditions and treatments, which actually helped them to evolve into very hardy and tough dogs, with a highly attuned survival instinct. Because of this instinct, Africanis can be very untrustful with people, animals, objects or even at places they dont know. But once they get to know the stranger, after some time, they can become friends with them. These dogs are also independent problem solvers who are able to come up with creative solutions to their problems.
10) Health
Over the centuries of evolution of Africanis, these dogs have developed a natural resistance to many internal and external parasites and they are usually extremely healthy. But of course, just like any other breed in the world, they may be prone to some health issues, such as dermoid sinus, parvovirus, distemper or some infections.