The Canaan dog is a fairly confidential breed in France, with only 6 breeders listed on the Société Centrale Canine website. This breed belongs to the group of so-called primitive dogs, the physique and behavior closest to wild dogs. More and more popular, it has peculiarities that make Canaan dogs special and endearing companions.

The Canaan dog is originally from Israel, of which it is the official breed. Some biblical representations of dogs dating from the 1st century AD show individuals appearing similar to today’s Canaan dogs. The so-called primitive dogs are thus supposed to be very close to the first wild dogs. This proximity to the origins of the canine species is believed to be due to the persistence, until the present day, of wild packs of Canaan dogs. This coexistence between domestic and wild individuals thus allows greater genetic diversity compared to most current breeds and more natural selection. Indeed, wild puppies are sometimes the result of crosses which enrich the genetic heritage of the breed. Moreover, their survival depends on their vigor. It is therefore the physical and behavioral characteristics naturally adapted to the wild environment that will be selected. On the contrary, for most modern breeds, only traits chosen by breed clubs are selected, which often keeps dogs away from wild and self-sufficient canines.

Canaan dogs generally lived near Bedouin villages, in packs of a few individuals. They are easily domesticated and were then used as guard dogs and shepherds. During the 20th century, the Israeli army developed their use as working dogs, particularly as guard dogs or trackers. Canaan dogs were the first animals trained to detect mines.

In the 60s, the first individuals were exported. Since then, the breed has grown in popularity and many countries now have official breed clubs (USA, Germany, France, UK, Finland, etc.).

Canaan dogs are medium-sized dogs, with a size of 50 to 60 cm at the withers for a weight of 18 to 25 kg, according to the French standard. Males are generally taller, with a larger head than females. The coat is rather short with a tight, hard, straight outer coat and a profuse, tight undercoat. Their color generally recalls the color of their native desert: golden, red or cream. We also find white, black or variegated individuals. Some may have a symmetrical mask. The ears are erect and rather short and broad. They are lively dogs and often move with a light trot. Their limbs are powerful and muscular.

Canaan dogs, like all primitive dogs, are rather impulsive dogs and quick to react. They are suspicious of strangers, humans and animals alike, without being fearful. However, they are territorial dogs that can be aggressive towards other dogs.

Very loyal to their owners, Canaan dogs are very good companion dogs. Indeed, they effectively guard their home while being kind and gentle with the whole family. In addition, although close to their owners, they are also independent and able to endure some loneliness.

Given their reactivity and their mistrust of strangers, it is strongly recommended to call on professionals for the education of puppies. Primitive dogs indeed require a quality education, without abruptness. These dogs do not cope well with constraints and thrive when they have established a relationship of trust with their owners. They are also dogs that vocalize more than others of their congeners, whether it is to express their contentment, their excitement or, on the contrary, their frustration.

According to the Israeli Breed Club, Canaan dogs exhibit very few breed-specific illnesses. Indeed, the absence of very marked selection, on a very small number of individuals, did not lead, as in other breeds, to the selection of congenital anomalies or genes predisposing to certain affections. Hip dysplasia, for example, seems almost non-existent in the breed. However, these results concern the Israeli population and it is likely that the results for the French population are somewhat different, given the local genetic heritage and very different living conditions.

In conclusion, the Canaan dog is a primitive dog, with a particular behavior. It is therefore recommended to inquire and call in professionals for the education of the dog. Nevertheless, his qualities are numerous with in particular a great loyalty and a guardian behavior and without aggressiveness within the household.