Overview
The Canaan Dog was developed from the semi-wild pariah dogs of the Levant, standardised in the 1930s and used by the Israeli military for guarding and mine detection. It is a medium, square, spitz-like dog with prick ears, a bushy tail and a harsh double coat in white, cream, sand, red or black. The Kennel Club lists it in the Utility group.
Primitive breeds like this keep a wild dog's caution. Canaans are devoted to their family, aloof with strangers, quick to bark at anything unusual, and highly territorial. They are also very clean, very intelligent and not inclined to blind obedience.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a quarter a day in two walks suits most adults. They are moderately active and do not need the mileage of a herding or gundog breed, but they do need variety and mental stimulation.
Quiet, open routes suit them better than crowded parks, where the dog spends its energy watching for threats instead of walking.
On the walk
- Recall: Unreliable in open country. The breed is independent and has strong prey drive. Off lead only in secure areas with a proven dog.
- Strangers: Expect avoidance and barking. Do not let people approach to pet the dog; let it keep its distance and move on.
- Other dogs: Aloof and sometimes sharp, especially with pushy or same-sex dogs. Walk alone or with known companions.
- Alertness: The dog notices everything and reacts to sudden movement. Keep the lead secure and avoid startling it from behind.
Tips for professional walkers
- Build trust slowly; a Canaan that does not know you will keep its distance for several walks.
- Keep the walk calm and the route predictable.
- Check the double coat for ticks after walks through grass and scrub.
- Use a harness the dog cannot back out of; primitive breeds are escape artists when spooked.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to strangers, and what should you do if someone approaches?
- Has it ever bolted or slipped its collar when frightened?
- Which dogs does it tolerate, and which should you avoid?