The Africanis dog is a recently discovered breed that originated in South Africa. These dogs have a strong and sleek body, and they are known for their friendly yet reserved nature. They are medium to large in size and are incredibly resourceful. Unlike other defined breeds, the Africanis dog has a lot of variation within the breed because it evolved naturally.
In the past, these dogs were considered mongrels and were looked down upon until the late 1990s. However, thanks to the efforts of the Africanis Society, established by John Gallant and Dr. Udo Küsel, the perception of these dogs has changed. They now have a respected standing and are recognized as a unique breed. Even today, there are thriving populations of Africanis dogs living in rural communities throughout South Africa.
Below, we look at Africanis dog breed, its history, personality, pros and cons of owning an Africanis, characteristics, and must-know facts. We will also examine how to care for this breed and much more. Prepare for a tail-wagging adventure into the world of Africaniss!
| Dog Breed | Africanis |
| Size | Medium |
| Weight | 55-100 lbs (average) |
| Height | 20-24″ (average) |
| Location | Africa |
| Ancestry | Unknown Hound and Pariah-type Dogs |
| Date of Origin | Ancient Times |
| Group | Hunting |
| Life Expectancy | 10-12 years |
| Price | $300 – $500 |
| Family | Canidae |
| Scientific Name | Canis Lupus Familiaris |
📖 Breed History
The Africanis breed of dog developed naturally in South Africa, with little human interference. Many feral Africanis dogs still roam freely in villages and surrounding areas. The true ancestry of the Africanis dog is unknown, but it is believed that they are descendants of ancient African wild hounds and pariah dogs, possibly with some influence from sighthounds like the Greyhound. Africanis dogs are known for being exceptionally friendly and naturally subservient. They are commonly seen in villages where traditional South African lifestyles are maintained, working as guardians for people and livestock, hunting dogs, and even herding dogs in some cases.
In 1998, the Africanis Society was established by John Gallant and Dr. Udo Küsel to conserve and maintain this unique and primitive breed. Unlike most breed societies, their goal is not to perfect the breed, but to preserve it as it has naturally developed. The society follows a code of ethics and implements regulations and procedures for registration and breeding guidelines. Advanced DNA testing of registered dogs is a standard practice. While variation is encouraged in this landrace breed, certain standards are in place to prevent the spread of genetic disorders, such as dermoids in dogs with ridged backs.
🐕 Africanis Appearance
Although there is a lot of individual variety among Africanis dogs, the Africanis Society has developed a thorough breed standard. These are quite large dogs that may weigh anywhere between fifty-five and one hundred pounds. They tend to be athletic but slim, with healthy Africanis having just-barely-visible ribs. With a wedge-shaped, streamlined skull like that of the prehistoric sighthounds and a long, cone-shaped nose, they tend to be slightly taller than they are long. Although there are warnings against mating those uncommon dogs with blue or double-colored eyes, the oval-shaped eyes of the Africaniscan occur in any shade, and their medium-sized, V-shaped ears may be borne upright, semi-erect, or may droop. Although the breeding of dogs with blue or diluted colors is forbidden for health reasons, as is the breeding of dogs with ridged backs, their short, easy-to-managecoats are double-layered and available in any hue or combination of colors.
| 👀 Eye Color | Brown |
| 🐽 Nose Color | Black |
| 🐕 Coat Color | Brindle, Sable, Pied, White, Silver, Fawn, Isabella, Cream, Red, Brown, Gray, Black |
⚡ Fun Fact: Africanis dogs are a social breed. They enjoy being around people or other animals. This breed doesn’t tolerate being left alone.
🐶 Traits & Temperament of Africanis
These dogs’ temperaments reflect the fact that they were evolved with humans rather than by them. Even though they are often incredibly kind and tolerant with people of all ages, they nevertheless need their space and can occasionally feel uncomfortable with excessive physical contact, and if pushed, they may become aggressive. Although it’s important to watch over all canine-human relationships, Africanis dogs are very kind and tolerant with kids and are frequently believed to be gentle. They often get along well with other dogs, and although while they are alert to any intrusion and cautious, they are not typically violent dogs until their family is in danger. These dogs are autonomous thinkers that may devise original solutions to their issues, yet if provided with little mental stimulation they may fabricate issues of their own, such as how to get to the steak you had planned for supper. Fortunately, they are also quite bright and eager to please, so when positive training techniques are applied, they may be readily trained.
🤝 Are Africaniss Friendly or Aggressive?
Africanis dogs are generally friendly towards other pets and are considered to be an average in terms of friendliness towards strangers. They are also known to be kid-friendly, making them a good choice for families with children. Africanis dogs are also cat-friendly and have an average level of friendliness towards other dogs. Due to their temperament, they are often recommended for elderly individuals.
This breed is known for being:
- Independent
- Protective
- Friendly
- Affectionate
- Obedient
- Territorial
- Trainable
- Watchful
🐩 Africanis Care & Maintenance
As a result of their inherent resistance to numerous internal and external parasites, these dogs should often only be cleaned when absolutely required. Excessive bathing can strip the dog’s coat of its natural oils, leaving it more vulnerable to environmental dangers. This dog’s coat will stay healthy and shiny if you brush it once a week or so with a smoother or gentler bristle brush or wipe it off with a damp towel. The Africanis dog’s ears should be inspected frequently to make sure they are clear of dirt and infection. Pre-existing conditions are often not covered by pet insurance providers. Get your pet insured right now to minimize stress and expensive veterinarian treatment. Get pet health insurance today to prevent exorbitant veterinarian care expenses and to save up to $273 annually.
Africanis dogs are known for being low shedders, meaning they tend to lose less hair compared to other breeds. This shedding is a normal part of their hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss can vary depending on the dog’s overall health and their specific breed type. In terms of grooming, it is typically recommended to give Africanis dogs a bath every 6-8 weeks.
🍖 Food: We recommend 2.5 cups daily, costing you about $1.50 – $1.90 daily, or approximately $34.00 – $45.00 a month.
🐾 Exercise: Africanis dogs need quite a lot of exercise. Daily walks should be on schedule. If you live an active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
This dog breed requires to be walked for roughly 16 miles per week, which equates to about 90 minutes of physical activity daily. This consistent moderate exercise regimen will help maintain their physical wellness and significantly contribute to their mental stimulation. Consciously setting aside this time for your furry friend can dramatically enhance their life quality, helping them stay energetic, healthy, and mentally alert.
Did you know: Africanis dogs have a higher energy level than other dog breeds. If you want a dog for snuggling on the couch, this breed isn’t the perfect choice for you.
❤️🩹 Africanis Health & Issues
Some of the major concerns for Africanis Dog Breed can be:
- Dermoid Sinus
While minor concerns include:
- Usually Very Healthy
🤧 Important: Is Africanis hypoallergenic? No.
✨ Bonus: Check out cool, creative, and funny names for Africanis.
⚡ Africanis Dog Breed Facts
What makes the Africanis a great choice for families with young children?
The Africanis is a great choice for families with young children because they are known to be patient and playful with children of all ages. They can be trusted to be gentle and are generally amicable with other dogs as well.
Is the Africanis breed considered a suitable breed for apartment living?
The Africanis breed can adapt to apartment living, but it is important to note that they still require a sense of space and may be uncomfortable with an abundance of physical contact. Therefore, apartment living should be supplemented with regular exercise and mental stimulation.
How much exercise does a Africanis require compared to other breeds?
The Africanis requires a good amount of exercise compared to other breeds. They are active dogs and need daily walks, playtime, and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy.
Is the Africanis breed known for being good with other pets?
The Africanis breed is known for being good with other pets. They tend to be amicable with other dogs and are watchful, but not generally aggressive unless their family is directly threatened.
What are other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Africanis?
Some other low-maintenance dog breeds similar to the Africanis include the Basenji, Chihuahua, and Miniature Pinscher. These breeds also have independent thinking and require mental stimulation.
What are the common health issues that Africaniss are prone to?
Africanis dogs are generally healthy and do not have any breed-specific health issues. However, like any other breed, they may be prone to common health issues such as hip dysplasia, allergies, and dental problems.
Are Africaniss known to be easy to train compared to other breeds?
Africanis dogs are known to be highly intelligent and eager to please, which makes them relatively easy to train when positive training methods are used. Consistency, patience, and positive reinforcement techniques work well with this breed.
Are Africaniss more prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds?
Africanis dogs are not particularly prone to separation anxiety compared to other breeds. However, individual dogs may develop separation anxiety if they are not properly socialized and trained from a young age.
Are there any dog breeds similar to the Africanis that are suitable for people with allergies?
Some dog breeds similar to the Africanis that are suitable for people with allergies include the Bichon Frise, Poodle, and Portuguese Water Dog. These breeds have hypoallergenic coats that produce fewer allergens.
What sizes of dogs similar to the Africanis are best for individuals or families with limited space?
For individuals or families with limited space, smaller-sized dogs similar to the Africanis would be a good choice. Breeds such as the Jack Russell Terrier, Shiba Inu, and Beagle are smaller in size but still have the energy and intelligence of the Africanis.
Is the Africanis breed known to be good with children with special needs?
The Africanis breed is known to be good with children, including those with special needs. Their patient and playful demeanor makes them suitable for interacting with children of all abilities.
How does the grooming and shedding needs of the Africanis?
The grooming and shedding needs of the Africanis are relatively low compared to some other breeds. They have short, dense coats that require regular brushing to maintain cleanliness and remove loose hair. They are moderate shedders and do not require extensive grooming routines.
We use reliable and publicly available data and resources such as AKC and American Canine Registry to ensure that Africanis dog breed information is accurate and up to date. If you spot an error, please don’t hesitate to bring it to our attention.
