Bakharwal Dog Breed

The Bakharwal is a specific working dog whose specialty is herding in chilly and treacherous mountain ranges. These dogs are all-in-one guardians for herds, and they have been well-suited for their work for several centuries if not many millennia. They are not for first-time dog owners or even for decently experienced dog people; they need a master who understands this breed. They are also not for apartment or small house life as they need a great amount of outdoor space to freely run and play.

Here are a few things to know about these remarkable dogs:

PROS

• Calm
• Loyal
• Hardy
• Alert
• Strong
• Loves to play
• Great guard dog
• Highly adaptable
• Fine with solitude
• Awesome watchdog
• Superb herding dog
• Extremely intelligent
• Low grooming needs
• Very few health concerns
• High tolerance to cold climates
• Perfect for very active lifestyles

CONS

• Rare
• Territorial
• Very stubborn
• Difficult to train
• Not hypoallergenic
• Can be dog-aggressive
• Requires a huge amount of exercise
• Must be socialized early and always

Rugged, calm and reliable best describes this breed. The Bakharwal is a hard-working, independent and fearless dog that understands when not to pick a fight but will not hesitate to take on a bear, lion or tiger. These dogs are extremely loyal and good family companions but only after establishing a deep trust and good understanding.

As these dogs are used primarily for herding in a specific region that is mountainous, dangerous and cold, and they tend to work away from humans, they are very intelligent. They can figure out relatively complex issues. All of this means this breed has a strong independent streak too.

The Bakharwal gets bored easily but adapts to new environments quickly and easily. Most surprising of all, this breed has a vegetarian diet. They take their herding, watching and guarding duties extremely seriously. They are very territorial, will fight most any fairly large predator and yet are very gentle with the animals for which they are responsible.

This dog is exceedingly active. They need an extraordinary amount of exercise, and, unless they work as herding dogs, a couple of very long walks tends to be only part of their daily workout needs. A huge, very well-fenced yard is essential for them to get some of their daily activity.

The Bakharwal is a very healthy breed. The native region where these dogs work is good and bad for their health: good their immunity system (which is very strong) and bad, sometimes, for the dog's physical being (work-related injuries). It is a very big dog, however, and all big dogs possess the possibility of suffering from certain ailments.

The health issues that can affect a Bakharwal are:
Bloat
Obesity
Hip dysplasia
Cryptorchidism
Patellar luxation

These dogs have an average life span of 10 to 12 years.