In a first, the lean and lanky indigenous Mudhol breed of hunting hound is all set to be drafted by the defence forces for guard duty by the end of this year, reported The Times of India.
This will be the first time when the Indian Army which has been using foreign breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors and Great Swiss Mountain dogs will induct an Indian canine breed.
According to the TOI reports, the dogs from Karnataka were trained in the Army's Remount and Veterinary Corps (RVC) center in Meerut.
“Six dogs have already been trained and they will soon be inducted into the Army at Jammu and Kashmir” TOI reported quoting an official as saying.
“The induction is likely to take place in December. The Indian Army had expressed its desire to use the Mudhol sighthound for surveillance and border protection duties,” the official added.
Know about the Mudhol Hound:
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The Mudhol Hound, also known as Caravan Hound is an Indian breed of dog of the sighthound type. The feathered variety is commonly referred to as a Pashmi. It is also called Karwani. It is a common pet amongst villagers in India's Deccan Plateau, who use it for hunting and guarding. The Kennel Club of India (KCI) and Indian National Kennel Club (INKC) recognize the breed under different breed names.
The Mudhol or Caravan hound has well-defined characteristics. The head is long and narrow, broad between the ears with a tapering muzzle. The jaws are long and powerful, with a scissors bite.
On being asked if more Indian dog breeds will be inducted in the future, the officer told TOI that, "This is not a spur of the moment decision. Instead, a lot of scientific thought has gone behind it”.
