Dog Breeds - Canaan Dog

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members or other familiar individuals can vary. Some breeds tend to be more aloof and reserved, showing affection primarily towards their owner or a select few individuals. They may be cautious or less inclined to form close bonds with strangers. On the other hand, certain breeds have a naturally friendly and outgoing disposition, treating not only their owner but also anyone they know well as their best friend. These breeds easily form attachments and are known for their affectionate nature towards familiar individuals, including family members and close friends.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The breed's exceptional level of tolerance and patience with children's behavior, coupled with their overall family-friendly disposition, necessitates constant supervision of dogs around young children or children who have limited interactions with canines.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to supervise and carefully introduce dogs to one another, certain breeds tend to be more inclined to get along well with other dogs, both in their own household and in public settings. These breeds typically have a more sociable and easygoing nature making it easier for them to form positive relationships with other dogs. However, it's worth noting that individual temperament and socialization experiences can greatly influence a dog's behavior towards other dogs, even within a generally friendly breed. It's always recommended to assess each dog's temperament and carefully manage their interactions with other dogs to ensure safety and compatibility.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
The amount of fur and hair that can be anticipated from the breed will determine the frequency of brushing, the likelihood of triggering specific allergies and the necessity for more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling, particularly for breeds with high shedding tendencies.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
When considering the grooming needs of a particular breed, it's important to think about the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks. Take into account the amount of time, patience, and budget you can dedicate to these care routines. Remember, all breeds need to have their nails trimmed regularly.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
Consider the level of slobber that a particular breed is prone to. If you have a strong preference for cleanliness, dogs that have a tendency to leave trails of saliva on your arm or create large wet patches on your clothes might not be the most suitable option for you.
COAT TYPE +
Smooth, Double
COAT LENGTH +
Short

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
When evaluating a breed's disposition towards strangers, it's important to distinguish between breeds that tend to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the setting and breeds that are generally friendly and welcoming towards new humans, regardless of the situation. Choosing a breed that aligns with your preferences in terms of their comfort level and sociability towards strangers will contribute to a harmonious interaction between your dog and others.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
When considering a breed's enthusiasm for play, it is crucial to evaluate whether they maintain their playful nature beyond puppyhood. While some breeds exhibit a lifelong desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or playing fetch well into their adult years, others tend to be more inclined towards relaxed and leisurely activities, such as lounging on the couch with their owners. Understanding a breed's predisposition towards playfulness will help you find a companion that aligns with your desired level of activity and involvement in playtime.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
Certain breeds have a natural propensity to alert their owners when strangers are present. They tend to be more vigilant and responsive to potential threats, whether it's the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are known for their tendency to warm up to strangers who are welcomed into their home by their family. If having a dog that acts as a reliable alarm system and yet remains accepting of authorized visitors is important to you, considering such breeds would be a wise choice.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
To assess how well a breed handles change, it is important to consider their adaptability to various factors such as living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily routines. Some breeds are more resilient and adaptable, able to adjust to new environments, schedules, and situations with relative ease. They tend to be less sensitive to changes and can adapt well to different circumstances. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more sensitive or less adaptable requiring a more stable and consistent environment to thrive. Understanding a breed's ability to handle change will help you choose a dog that can comfortably adapt to your lifestyle and any potential alterations in the future.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
Explore the effortless process of training your dog and witness their incredible willingness to acquire new skills. Some breeds are dedicated to making their owners proud, while others opt for pursuing their own desires disregarding limitations of time and place.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
The exercise requirements and mental stimulation levels vary across different breeds. Breeds with high energy levels are always geared up and enthusiastic for their next exciting escapade. They dedicate their time to boundless running, leaping, and engaging in playful activities all day long. On the other hand, breeds with low energy levels resemble contented couch potatoes, delighting in leisurely lounging and enjoying peaceful naps.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization varies among different breeds. Some breeds are quite vocal and tend to bark or howl frequently. They may exhibit this behavior in response to various stimuli, such as strangers passing by or birds near the window. On the other hand, certain breeds only vocalize in specific situations remaining relatively quiet otherwise. It's important to note that even some barkless breeds can still use alternative sounds to communicate and express themselves.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The amount of mental stimulation necessary to keep a breed happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, in particular, often require engaging activities that stimulate their minds. These can include tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other desirable qualities. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs may become restless and seek their own means of keeping busy. Unfortunately, their self-created projects may not align with what their owners would prefer. Therefore, it is crucial to provide adequate mental stimulation to prevent unwanted behaviors and promote the overall well-being of purpose-bred dogs.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection a breed exhibits towards family members or other familiar individuals can vary. Some breeds tend to be more aloof and reserved, showing affection primarily towards their owner or a select few individuals. They may be cautious or less inclined to form close bonds with strangers. On the other hand, certain breeds have a naturally friendly and outgoing disposition, treating not only their owner but also anyone they know well as their best friend. These breeds easily form attachments and are known for their affectionate nature towards familiar individuals, including family members and close friends.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The breed's exceptional level of tolerance and patience with children's behavior, coupled with their overall family-friendly disposition, necessitates constant supervision of dogs around young children or children who have limited interactions with canines.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The general friendliness of a breed towards other dogs can vary. While it is important to supervise and carefully introduce dogs to one another, certain breeds tend to be more inclined to get along well with other dogs, both in their own household and in public settings. These breeds typically have a more sociable and easygoing nature making it easier for them to form positive relationships with other dogs. However, it's worth noting that individual temperament and socialization experiences can greatly influence a dog's behavior towards other dogs, even within a generally friendly breed. It's always recommended to assess each dog's temperament and carefully manage their interactions with other dogs to ensure safety and compatibility.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

The amount of fur and hair that can be anticipated from the breed will determine the frequency of brushing, the likelihood of triggering specific allergies and the necessity for more regular vacuuming and lint-rolling, particularly for breeds with high shedding tendencies.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

When considering the grooming needs of a particular breed, it's important to think about the frequency of bathing, brushing, trimming, and other coat maintenance tasks. Take into account the amount of time, patience, and budget you can dedicate to these care routines. Remember, all breeds need to have their nails trimmed regularly.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

Consider the level of slobber that a particular breed is prone to. If you have a strong preference for cleanliness, dogs that have a tendency to leave trails of saliva on your arm or create large wet patches on your clothes might not be the most suitable option for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Smooth, Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Short

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

When evaluating a breed's disposition towards strangers, it's important to distinguish between breeds that tend to be reserved or cautious around unfamiliar individuals regardless of the setting and breeds that are generally friendly and welcoming towards new humans, regardless of the situation. Choosing a breed that aligns with your preferences in terms of their comfort level and sociability towards strangers will contribute to a harmonious interaction between your dog and others.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

When considering a breed's enthusiasm for play, it is crucial to evaluate whether they maintain their playful nature beyond puppyhood. While some breeds exhibit a lifelong desire to engage in activities like tug-of-war or playing fetch well into their adult years, others tend to be more inclined towards relaxed and leisurely activities, such as lounging on the couch with their owners. Understanding a breed's predisposition towards playfulness will help you find a companion that aligns with your desired level of activity and involvement in playtime.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

Certain breeds have a natural propensity to alert their owners when strangers are present. They tend to be more vigilant and responsive to potential threats, whether it's the arrival of the mailman or the presence of a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are known for their tendency to warm up to strangers who are welcomed into their home by their family. If having a dog that acts as a reliable alarm system and yet remains accepting of authorized visitors is important to you, considering such breeds would be a wise choice.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

To assess how well a breed handles change, it is important to consider their adaptability to various factors such as living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, and daily routines. Some breeds are more resilient and adaptable, able to adjust to new environments, schedules, and situations with relative ease. They tend to be less sensitive to changes and can adapt well to different circumstances. On the other hand, certain breeds may be more sensitive or less adaptable requiring a more stable and consistent environment to thrive. Understanding a breed's ability to handle change will help you choose a dog that can comfortably adapt to your lifestyle and any potential alterations in the future.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

Explore the effortless process of training your dog and witness their incredible willingness to acquire new skills. Some breeds are dedicated to making their owners proud, while others opt for pursuing their own desires disregarding limitations of time and place.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

The exercise requirements and mental stimulation levels vary across different breeds. Breeds with high energy levels are always geared up and enthusiastic for their next exciting escapade. They dedicate their time to boundless running, leaping, and engaging in playful activities all day long. On the other hand, breeds with low energy levels resemble contented couch potatoes, delighting in leisurely lounging and enjoying peaceful naps.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Frequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The amount of mental stimulation necessary to keep a breed happy and healthy can vary. Purpose-bred dogs, in particular, often require engaging activities that stimulate their minds. These can include tasks involving decision-making, problem-solving, concentration, and other desirable qualities. Without sufficient mental exercise, these dogs may become restless and seek their own means of keeping busy. Unfortunately, their self-created projects may not align with what their owners would prefer. Therefore, it is crucial to provide adequate mental stimulation to prevent unwanted behaviors and promote the overall well-being of purpose-bred dogs.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Black	007
Cream	076
Golden	093
Liver	123
Red	140
Tan	195
White	19

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Markings	002
Liver Markings	010
Tan Markings	012
Red Markings	023
Cream Markings	044
Gold Markings	097
White Trim	101

About The Breed

The Canaan Dog, one of the oldest breeds recognized by the AKC holds the distinction of being the national dog of Israel. This agile medium-sized herding dog possesses a calm demeanor around family members but remains wary and distant with strangers. Ever watchful, the Canaan Dog is vocal and resolute in its duty as a guardian of both flock and home. With a lean physique and a distinctive bushy tail, they stand between 19 to 24 inches tall. Their straight, harsh coat can display a range of colors and patterns. An alert expression is conveyed through their erect, expressive ears and dark almond-shaped eyes. When on the move, Canaan Dogs exhibit a brisk effortless trot. Their hardy nature, agility, and seemingly boundless energy make them ideal companions for hikers and runners.

Clever, confident, and possessive of their territory, Canaan Dogs can easily assert dominance over passive owners who have not established themselves as the pack leaders. Early training and socialization are essential in fostering their well-rounded development. With positive and effective training methods, these ancient wonder-dogs exhibit remarkable trainability. Activities such as agility, obedience trials, herding trials, and sentry duty provide meaningful outlets for their strong work ethic.

WHAT TO EXPECT WHEN CARING FOR A CANAAN DOG

Holding the title of a dog owner is not just a luxury. It’s a critical responsibility. They require from us the basics - food and shelter at a minimum but they are worthy of so much more. Welcoming a dog into your life necessitates an understanding of the depth of commitment involved in caring for a pet.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Canaan Dog: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	The Canaan Dog is known for its overall good health thanks in part to the efforts of a dedicated group of breeders who maintain regular communication and collaborate to improve the breed. However, regular care is still important to ensure their well-being. Monitoring the dog's ears on a consistent basis is crucial in detecting any signs of infection, as they can be prone to ear issues. Additionally, it is recommended to brush their teeth frequently using toothpaste specifically formulated for dogs. This dental care routine helps maintain good oral hygiene and promotes their overall health. Health Assessment Recommendations from the Breed's National Association: Patella Evaluation Hip Evaluation Thyroid Evaluation Elbow Evaluation Ophthalmologist Evaluation

Grooming

	Canaan Dogs generally have good self-maintenance and typically require fewer baths compared to other similarly active breeds. Their double coat consists of a coarse, flat outer coat and a softer undercoat. During shedding seasons, which occur at least once a year, regular brushing becomes important to remove loose hair and maintain the dog's appearance. It is recommended to brush them frequently during this time to manage shedding effectively. Additionally, it is important to trim their nails regularly if they do not naturally wear down. Overly long nails can cause discomfort and potentially lead to structural problems. By keeping their nails at an appropriate length, their overall comfort and well-being are promoted.

Exercise

	Canaan Dogs have a moderate exercise requirement and can adapt well to different living situations as long as they receive daily outings. Engaging in regular exercise and activities is vital for their physical and mental well-being. Participating in dog sports is an excellent way to provide them with an outlet for their energy. Training them in various disciplines such as obedience, tracking, herding, agility, nose work, carting, coursing ability tests, and more, not only exercises their bodies but also stimulates their minds. These activities allow for a strong bond to form between the dog and owner while ensuring both of them enjoy the experience together.

Training

	Canaan Dogs are known for their remarkable sensitivity, affection, and responsiveness, making them excellent family companions. They possess high intelligence and have a natural inclination for learning allowing them to be easily trained. While they can adapt to various climates and living situations, their innate drive for self-preservation and well-developed sense of territory can lead them to be cautious around unfamiliar people, dogs, and environments. Therefore, early socialization and participation in puppy training classes are essential for Canaan Dogs. This process ideally begins with the breeder and should continue with the new owner, ensuring the development of a well-behaved and well-adjusted dog both at home and in public settings. When training Canaan Dogs, it is crucial to maintain a positive approach. Harsh training methods can have detrimental effects on their sensitive nature. Positive reinforcement techniques are recommended to encourage their willingness to learn and foster a strong bond between the dog and their owner. With patience, consistency, and positive training methods, Canaan Dogs exhibit great potential for obedience and well-mannered behavior.

Nutrition

	For Canaan Dogs, a high-quality dog food is recommended, whether it's commercially manufactured or prepared at home under the supervision and approval of a veterinarian. The chosen diet should be suitable for the dog's specific life stage, whether they are a puppy, adult, or senior. Some Canaan Dogs have a tendency to gain weight, so it is important to monitor their calorie intake and weight regularly. While treats can be valuable during training, it's crucial to avoid overfeeding, which can lead to obesity. Familiarize yourself with safe and unsafe human foods for dogs and ensure that you only offer appropriate and safe treats. If you have any concerns regarding your Canaan Dog's weight or diet, consult your veterinarian for guidance. Additionally, it is essential to provide clean and fresh water to your Canaan Dog at all times to keep them hydrated and maintain their overall health.

Historiography

Canaan Dogs derive their name from the region that encompasses present-day Israel, Lebanon, and surrounding areas. In ancient times, herds and flocks held great significance to the Israelites, serving as sources of food, leather, wool, and even for ritual sacrifices. References to sheep and shepherds in religious texts of Christian, Hebrew, and Muslim traditions highlight the importance of pastoral life in the ancient Semitic cultures.

Artifacts dating back around 4,000 years depict dogs resembling Canaan Dogs, suggesting that the breed had a long history. These dogs likely served as valuable assistants to shepherds, helping with herding, droving, and guarding tasks. However, specific details regarding the breed's development have been lost in the annals of history.

A notable turning point in the breed's recorded history occurred in 70 AD when Roman forces destroyed Jerusalem, leading to the dispersal of the Israelites across the Middle East and Mediterranean. In the absence of their owners and with flocks scattered, Canaan Dogs sought refuge in the Negev Desert, surviving and largely living in an undomesticated state until the 20th century.

As the State of Israel began to take shape, the need for sentry dogs to guard isolated Jewish settlements and assist the fledgling Israeli army became apparent. Dr. Rudolphina Menzel, an Austrian cynologist residing in Palestine at the time proposed using the semi-wild desert dogs for these purposes believing that only the fittest could survive the desert environment. This marked the beginning of the Canaan Dog's rediscovery and domestication.

The desert dogs exhibited intelligence and trainability, quickly finding roles as sentries, messengers, service dogs, and even landmine detectors. Following World War II, Menzel focused on breeding and training Canaan Dogs as guide dogs for the blind during peacetime.

After nearly 2,000 years of fending for themselves, Canaan Dogs still retain the independent and resilient nature of desert dogs, untouched by passing trends or changing fashions. This breed's history and connection to the ancient land of Canaan add to their distinct character and heritage.