Top 2 Thai Dog Breeds: Canines From Thailand (With Info & Pictures)
By Brooke Bundy
Updated on
While practically everyone in North America is familiar with Thai food, probably only a few are familiar with their native dog breeds. The secluded villages and monastery lifestyles have shielded Thai culture from the outside world until recently. Since the Vietnam War, Thailand has morphed from a quiet country with few visitors into a popular tourist destination. As more information about Thailand reaches the world, we’re also getting a glimpse of the country’s special breeds: the Thai Ridgeback and the Thai Bangkaew.
Top 2 Thai Dog Breeds
1. Thai Ridgeback
| Height: | 20 – 24 inches |
| Weight: | 35 – 75 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 12 – 13 years |
| Colors: | Black, blue, yellow, red |
The Thai Ridgeback is one of only three dog breeds in the world that grows fur against the grain on its back, forming the “ridge” in its name. Only solid colors are accepted into the AKC breed standard. The Thai Ridgeback remains rare outside of their native country, so the AKC hasn’t even given them an official designation yet. For now, they’re labeled as “foundation breeding stock.” Once the breed is more established, they’ll be settled into a standard group such as “hound” or “working.”
Their short single coat doesn’t shed as much as many dogs, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers. With a long, thin tail that curves upwards and ears standing tall like a Corgi’s, the Thai Ridgeback appears alert at all times. They are a guarding and hunting breed with incredible athletic ability. If you’re considering adopting one of these rare dogs, make sure you have at least 2 hours a day to devote to their exercise needs.
2. Thai Bangkaew
| Height: | 17 – 21 inches |
| Weight: | 35 – 60 pounds |
| Life expectancy: | 11 – 14 years |
| Colors: | Black, brown, gray, cream, pied, red, white |
The butterfly pattern on the Thai Bangkaew’s face makes them appear to be wearing a mask. While this marking isn’t necessarily required by the breed standard, it’s a pretty common trait, especially given their tendency to don multiple colors. This dog recently emerged as a breed during the 1900s when Luang Puh Maak Metharee from the Wat Bangkaw monastery crossed a domestic Thai dog with a jackal. His mix resulted in a domestic dog with independent tendencies and a Spitz-like appearance.
Even though the Thai Bangkok is really cute, don’t expect them to be avid snugglers. After all, their predecessor was a wild jackal a mere 50 years ago, so the breed isn’t thoroughly domesticated yet. Additionally, their high prey drive makes them an unsuitable choice for households with cats and small dogs. Although they may tolerate other dogs if socialized at a young age, the Thai Bangkaew lives best with their devoted humans and no other pets. Like the Thai Ridgeback, this breed needs vigorous exercise daily to avoid destructive boredom. Plan on carving about 2 hours out of your daily schedule to take them on a walk, run, or swim.
- See also: How Much Does a Thai Bangkaew Dog Cost
Conclusion
The Thai Ridgeback has been around for longer than the Thai Bangkaew. Even so, you’ll probably have a hard time finding either breed outside of their native country. However, this might change in the upcoming years as the world learns about these exciting exotic breeds. If you ever have the chance to adopt one of these awesome dogs, you should know that they carry a few additional requirements than your average domestic dog. You’ll need to honestly evaluate your lifestyle to make sure you’re a suitable fit before you commit.
Featured Image Credit: Sbolotova, Shutterstock
