Chippiparai

While the Chippiparai is believed to be linked to the Saluki, an Egyptian breed of dog, there is little proof or records to back this up. The Chippiparai once was a favorite of the king's entourage and was a treasured hunter. In those happier times, the breed was treated as an asset and was often gifted to other nobles or important people. They were considered a worthy dog and revered for their amazing hunting skills, adaptability, and endurance.  Sadly, with the onset of the British rule, the dog lost favor as new foreign dog breeds were introduced. Part of the British rule involved making the Indians feel inferior about their lifestyle and belongings, and they promoted the British dogs as superior. The Indians wanted the English dogs, and many species of Indian dogs were neglected. With the loss of their royal patronage, the Chippiparai lost their standing amongst the local people, and were considered only a dog that a hunter may have time for. The numbers of the breed have declined to such proportions that they are feared to be on the brink of extinction. A lot has been done to try and revive the popularity of this breed amongst the Indian people, and while research goes on to try and build the breeds numbers up it seems to be a race against time for the lovely Chippiparai. The breeders have never recorded the origins or development so new breeders are hindered by low numbers that they are trying to resurrect the Chippiparai from. Let us hope this beautiful hound recovers to grace many households in the future.