Indian Maharashtrian Sheepdog

This is a very rare livestock guardian of the Korku tribes of Western India. The Maharashtrian Dhangari Kutra is related to Central Asian and Tibetan breeds, but is quite a bit leaner and more agile than a typical mastiff. Some authorities believe that the breed is extinct and dismiss the modern specimens as unpure, due to common working crosses with the Pashmi Hound. The Maharashtrian Shepherd Dog used to be more massive in the past and used primarily for protection duties, but the present-day incarnation makes a capable herder and hunting dog as well. Very aggressive and powerful, this breed is best suited for rural environments.

The coat is thick, hard and rich, always black in colour with small white markings allowed on the feet, chest and tail. Average height is around 26 inches.