If you love living with a dog, you could have this breed to thank. The Canaan Dog might have initiated the relationship between dogs and humans. They're among the oldest and rarest breeds in the world. Canaan Dogs are a natural breed; humans haven't altered their lineage.
Canaan Dogs are distinguished by their intense expressions and intelligence. It's no accident that this driven and focused dog was the first to locate landmines by scent. Some Canaan Dogs also do therapy dog and search-and-rescue work.
Originally from the area now known as Israel, this medium-sized breed can grow to between 35-55 pounds and lives an average of 12-15 years. The breed is recognized by the American Kennel Club and classified as a member of the Herding group.
| AKC Recognized | Y |
| Breed's original pastime | Herding |
| Origin | Israel |
| Breed group | Herding |
| Average lifespan | 12-15 years |
| Size | Medium |
| Bark factor | Moderate |
| AKC Ranking | 146 |
| Family | Livestock, herding |
| Date of origin | Ancient times |
| Original function | Sentry, messenger, and assistance |
| Today's function | Herding trials |
| Average size of male | Height: 20-24 Weight: 45-55 |
| Average size of female | Height: 19-23 Weight: 35-45 |
| Other name | None |
| Energy level | Medium energy |
| Exercise needs | High |
| Playfullness | Moderately playful |
| Affection level | Moderately affectionate |
| Friendliness toward other dogs | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward other pets | Friendly |
| Friendliness toward strangers | Shy |
| Ease of training | Hard to train |
| Watchdog ability | High |
| Protection ability | Moderately protective |
| Grooming needs | Low maintenance |
| Cold tolerance | Medium tolerance |
| Heat tolerance | Medium tolerance |
BEHAVIOR & TRAINING
WHAT IS A CANAAN DOG'S PERSONALITY LIKE?
These are smart, loving, and loyal dogs. Canaan Dogs will bond closely with a family who can keep up with them — this breed is very active, and will need lots of physical and mental exercise. They play best with older kids and supervised dogs.
WHAT IS CANAAN DOG BEHAVIOR LIKE?
Their growth cycles are more like wolves: it will take three years for a Canaan Dog to physically mature. This desert wanderer needs room to spread out and explore. These dogs are athletic and agile.
Canaans are vigilant and territorial, making them very capable watchdogs. They can be prone to barking.
HOW EASY IS IT TO TRAIN A CANAAN DOG?
A dog this smart and independent-minded can be challenging to train. Be patient and consistent with your pup, and keep it interesting for this smarty-paws! Early and frequent socialization is important. Their adventurous tendencies make them poor candidates for off-leash play in unfenced areas.
A bored Canaan is a destructive Canaan, so plan for regular exercise to keep their bodies and minds active. This breed excels in conformation, obedience, agility, and herding dog sports.
CARE & HEALTH
HOW MUCH DO CANAAN DOGS SHED AND WHAT ARE THEIR GROOMING NEEDS?
Canaan Dogs are seasonal, twice-yearly heavy shedders. They only require minimal grooming and occasional baths.
Their short double-coats developed to help Canaan Dogs survive extreme desert temperatures — their hair traps air and insulates against both the heat and cold.
WHAT HEALTH PROBLEMS DO CANAAN DOGS HAVE?
This is a generally healthy breed. A few have developed hypothyroidism or epilepsy.
