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CANAAN DOG BREED STANDARDS Breed standards are written descriptions used by kennel clubs, breeders, and others to define the "perfect" type, structure, gait, and temperament for a particular breed. In this regard, no dog is "perfect" in every way. Nor do all of the breed characteristics in a standard apply to every member of a particular breed. Every dog is an individual. The following are excerpts from the Canaan Dog breed standards used by three major organizations, the AKC, the UKC, and the FCI, which provide a very general introduction to the breed. But even a thorough understanding of even the complete breed standards cannot begin to fully describe the ancient, versatile, and incredible Canaan Dog. We are always happy to discuss the Canaan Dog breed and our dogs, so feel free to contact us at [email protected]. AMERICAN KENNEL CLUB CANAAN DOG BREED STANDARD (excerpts) The Canaan Dog, the National dog of Israel, is a herding and flock sentry dog originating in the Land of Canaan. The Canaan Dog is a pariah dog type that is naturally alert, inquisitive and watchful. He is mistrustful of strangers and unfamiliar environments, yet loyal and loving with his family. A square dog of medium size, moderate and balanced without extremes, showing a clean outline. The moderately angulated Canaan Dog moves with athletic agility and grace in an efficient, ground-covering endurance trot. He has a wedge-shaped head with low-set erect ears, a high set brush tail that curls over the back when confident, and a straight, harsh, flat-lying double coat. There is a marked distinction between the sexes. .... Alert, vigilant, devoted and docile with his family. Reserved and aloof with strangers. Highly territorial, serving as a responsive companion and natural guardian. Very vocal, persistent. UNITED KENNEL CLUB CANAAN DOG BREED STANDARD (excerpts) The Canaan Dog is an ancient breed resembling the wild dog type which has survived in Israel through at least 4000 years of history. Canaan Dogs are pariah dogs which live on the fringes of civilization and are frequently used by the Bedouin as flock and camp guardians. In 1934, Dr. Rudolf and Prof. Rudolphina Menzel immigrated to Israel, then known as Palestine. They undertook the study of pariah dogs and the Canaan Dog in particular, becoming the driving force behind its preservation. Prof. Menzel bred and trained Canaan Dogs, primarily for military work. In 1965, Prof. Menzel exported four Canaan Dogs to the United States where they became the foundation stock for American and Canadian Canaan Dogs. .... The Canaan Dog is a medium-sized, well-balanced, strong and square dog, with a wedge-shaped head; erect, low-set ears; and straight, harsh, dense coat of short-to-medium length. The correct relationship of height to length of body is 1:1. The tail is bushy, set on high, and is carried curled over the back when the dog is alert or excited. This breed is presented in a completely natural condition with no trimming. Moderation and balance must always be considered when evaluating this breed. .... The essential characteristics of the Canaan Dog are those which have enabled them to survive for centuries in the desert. The Canaan Dog gives the impression of elegance but is sufficiently substantial to stand up to jackals, hyenas, and wolves. They are intelligent and adaptable to wide extremes of lifestyle and climate. .... Canaan Dogs are extraordinarily devoted and amenable to training but consider themselves the equal of those with whom they live. Canaans raised with children are very gentle with and extremely protective of them. This breed matures slowly both physically and mentally and individual dogs may not reach their prime until as late as four years of age. FEDERATION CYNOLOGIQUE INTERNATIONALUNITED CANAAN DOG BREED STANDARD (excerpts) A medium sized, well balanced, strong and square dog resembling the wild dog type. Strong distinction between the sexes. .... Alert, quick to react, distrustful of strangers, strongly defensive but not naturally aggressive. Vigilant not only against man but other animals as well. Extraordinarily devoted and amenable to training. LINKS TO ADDITIONAL CANAAN DOG SITES AND INFORMATION FACEBOOK INSTAGRAM CANAAN DOG BREED CLUBS (US) AKC, UKC, and FCI MYRNA SHIBOLETH CANAAN DOG BREED VIDEOS CANAAN DOGS IN THE PRESS |