The Canaan Dog

As the name suggests, the ancestors for the Canaan Dog originate from the Land of Canaan in ancient Biblical times. About 2000 years ago, the Romans took over present day Israel causing the Israelites to be dispersed. The Canaan's ancestors were left to fend for themselves. Some were used by nomadic tribes in the Negev desert for herding and as guard dogs. The modern Canaan dog is the result of a breeding program that started in the 1930's. Two scientists, Rudolph and Rudolphina Menzel of Israel, are credited with creating the modern Canaan dog. Their program began with pariah dogs using local herding and livestock dogs – modern day survivors of the ancient breed.

The modern breed is an extremely versatile dog. It has acute senses, especially hearing and smell. It has been used for everything from bomb detection to assisting persons with disabilities. Some are even adept at sensing when a family member is about to come down with a seizure.

The Canaan dog is easily mistaken for mixed breed, since it lacks an outstanding or telling characteristic. Some would describe it as a ‘vanilla breed’ – a description disputed by those who own and have come to love this modern incarnation of an ancient companion.

It is very intelligent. It is adaptable, responsive, and affectionate. It retains many instincts of its wild past and as such is apprehensive of strangers and new situations. New puppies must be very well socialized and exposed to as many new situations and people as possible.

Origin The Land of Canaan dating back to ancient Biblical Times.

Original Use Herding, guard dog

Use Today Herding, guard dog, companion, plus specialize roles such as search and rescue, guide dog, tracking.

Temperament Intelligent, willing to please, and devoted to its family. It is easy going, but protective of its home, family, and territory. May bark a lot.

Acceptance of: Other Dogs - Usually good, but can be aggressive

Other Pets - Usually very good

Strangers - Reserved
Children - Good

Watchdog Ability Excellent

Guard dog Ability Good

Ease of Training Very Good

Living Conditions Can live outdoors in warm or cool climates. Is just as happy to live indoors with its family.

Exercise Requires lots of physical exercise. Thrives on mental stimulation as well.

Coat Two layered, coat. The outer coat is straight, flat lying hair that is harsh to the touch. The under coat is shorter and softer.

Grooming Needs brushing about once a week or less. It sheds heavily twice a year.

Colors It is predominantly white, but can be a solid color - light brown, brown, or black. It can also be any of the above solid colors with white trim. Can be mainly white with patches (including a mask) of above coloring.

Height and Weight Ideal weight is 35 to 55 pounds (16 to 25 kg) while the ideal height is 19 to 24 inches (48 to 61 cm). Variations may occur in individual animals.

Life Expectancy 12 to 13 years.

Group The AKC places the Canaan dog in the herding group.

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