Canaan Dog Breed Guide

What is the history & origin of the Canaan Dog?

The Canaan dog's ancestors date back millennia. Originating in the Middle East, artefacts from more than 4,000 years ago have images of dogs that look similar to today's Canaan dog. Historically this breed was used to herd livestock and to protect their owner's properties.

In 70 AD, Romans invaded and destroyed Jerusalem. This caused the Israelites to flee Jerusalem, leaving their dogs behind. The abandoned Canaan dogs became wild and stayed that way for many years. Only in the 20th century did people again begin to domesticate the Canaan dogs, using them as companions, family pets, and watchdogs.

The newly domesticated Canaan dogs were intelligent and easy to train. They were soon used as military and law enforcement dogs, as well as service dogs and guard dogs. In fact, nowadays they are the national dog of Israel.

The first Canaan dogs were taken to America in 1965, and the Canaan dog club was established the same year although the American Kennel Club only recognised the Canaan dog in 1997. Despite the rarity of Canaan dogs, you can find a breed club in most western nations.

Who are Canaan Dog dogs best for?

Canaan dogs do well with families or solo owners. They enjoy being around people, but they are also independent and okay if left alone for a while.

Canaan dogs are house-friendly and do well in homes with a small garden as well as apartments, as long as they get enough exercise.

Although Canaan dogs get on well with children of all ages, they do not get along well with other dogs or pets. Their herding instinct makes them a challenging breed to keep with cats. If you socialise your pup from a young age though, they can be trained to get on with other dogs and smaller pets.

How much grooming does a Canaan Dog need?

Canaan Dogs shed moderately throughout the year and shedding is part of their coat's cycle. During the autumn and spring, you may notice that your Canaan dog is shedding a lot more - this is completely normal.

To help manage the shedding hair, you should brush your dog a few times a week. This will remove any dead hair and distribute skin oils. It can also help to get rid of any dirt and dust.

Canaan dogs are low maintenance and are able to stay quite clean. You should bathe your dog once every few months, and check its nails once a month. If the nails don't wear down naturally, they may require a trim.

Aim to brush your dog's teeth daily to prevent dental disease and plaque build-up.

Lastly, their upright ears can quickly collect dirt. Check the ears once a week for any irritations or signs of infection.

Do Canaan Dog bark much?

Canaan dogs are not yappy, but they do bark on occasion. They will not bark for no reason and tend to bark to alert their owner of danger, when they are protecting their territory, or if they are bored and want attention.

They are by no means compulsive barkers, so if you hear your Canaan dog barking, it is best you go see why.

Do Canaan Dog bite?

Canaan dogs are not known to bite without cause. They have a low bite tendency, and will only bite when provoked or to protect themselves. These dogs were bred to herd livestock and may nip heels if their herding instinct kicks in, however, these nips are not intended to hurt.

Your Canaan dog puppy may also be mouthy when young and will try to chew anything it sees, especially while teething.

This behaviour can be trained away by teaching your pup what it is allowed to chew (like chew toys) and rewarding good behaviour.

What is the temperament & personality of a Canaan Dog?

The temperament of the Canaan dog can be described as alert, vigilant, devoted and independent.

Although loyal and loving to their families, they have an independent streak and are reserved around strangers.

Bred as herders, this breed excels at any type of dog sport. From agility to tracking, they enjoy pleasing their owners and will closely bond with them when performing tasks.

They are energetic and require daily exercise. With a brisk walk once a day, your Canaan dog will be happy to spend time indoors and won't need a large garden.

What is the weight & size of a Canaan Dog?

Weight:

• Male: 20.4 - 25 kg

• Female: 15.8 - 20.4 kg

Height:

• Male: 50.8 - 61 cm

• Female: 48 - 58 cm

How much training does a Canaan Dog need?

You will soon discover that your Canaan dog is an intelligent dog. These dogs respond well to positive reinforcement methods, such as awarding them with a clicker, food, or their favourite toys.

Despite their hardy nature and rugged looks, Canaan dogs are sensitive and will not respond to aggressive, long training sessions. It is best to keep sessions short and fun with plenty of praise.

Although these dogs are examples of early domesticated dogs, they retain their wild nature, making them wary of people and strange environments. You will have to socialise your dog as soon as possible and should consider enrolling it in a puppy kindergarten class.

Canaans get along well with children but will need consistent and diligent training to get along with other pets. They are also territorial with other dogs, showing mild dog aggression, and will do best as an only dog unless socialised accordingly.

What are some of the most common health issues for a Canaan Dog?

The Canaan dog is a hardy and healthy breed. They are prone to hereditary health conditions though, and reputable breeders must screen breeding dogs for such health problems. These include:

• Hip dysplasia

• Elbow dysplasia

• Thyroid problems

• Eye problems

• Cryptorchidism: having only one testis.

• Epilepsy

• Degenerative Myelopathy: spinal cord disease that will cause paralysis.

• Patella Luxation: a condition that causes the kneecap to slip out of place.

• Osteochondrosis Dissecans: when the bone beneath the cartilage dies due to lack of blood flow.

• Lymphosarcoma: tumours in the blood and lymph.

• Progressive Retinal Atrophy: causes loss of vision and blindness.

What is the lifespan of a Canaan Dog?

The average life span of a Canaan dog is 12 to 15 years.

How much should you feed a Canaan Dog?

Canaan dogs do best when fed a high-quality diet. This can consist of store-bought or homemade food which is nutritionally balanced. Two meals should be fed a day. Treats can be provided but should be given in moderation to prevent weight gain and obesity, especially in older dogs.

Your dogs should always have access to fresh water throughout the day.

What is the price of a Canaan Dog in Australia?

The price of a Canaan dog varies between AUD $1,150 and $1,700. The price will depend on the breeder, bloodline of the puppy's parents, and age of the Canaan dog pup. Their high cost is due to the rarity of the breed.