Canaan Dog Breed Profile

Quick Stats for the Canaan Dog Breed

Height (at the shoulders): 19 – 24 inches (48 – 61 cm)
Weight: 35 – 55 pounds (16 – 25 kg)
Life Expectancy: 12 – 15 years
AKC Group: Herding Group – AKC recognized in 1997
Shedding: heavy shedder; seasonal shedder
Living Conditions: okay in apartment (with sufficient exercise); moderately active indoors; best with average sized yard (minimum)

Personality of the Canaan Dog Breed

The Canaan Dog is athletic, graceful, quick, and agile. They are loving and playful with family members, which make them great family dogs. However, they can be aloof and reserved around strangers which make them excellent watchdogs.

These dogs are natural guardians, so they tend to bark more than other herding dogs.

They are very intelligent and usually do really well at obedience. They are also good at agility, tracking, and herding.

History of the Canaan Dog Breed

The origin of the Canaan Dog goes really far back to ancient Israel. The breed developed through many centuries of hardship.

Researchers believe that the breed originated in the biblical land of Canaan. During early times, these dogs were known as the Kelev Kanani, which means the Dog of Canaan.

After the Romans came through Israel some 2000 years ago, these dogs were left to fend for themselves. They survived in the Negev Desert and the Sebulon Coastal Plain. The male puppies were taken in by the Bedouins and used for guarding livestock. Over time the dogs honed their herding skills, becoming excellent herders and protectors.

Dr. Rudolphina Menzel is considered the founder of the breed, and their existence today is largely because of her efforts. Dr. Menzel found feral Canaan Dogs, captured them and started a breeding program. These dogs quickly became great sentry dogs, loyal messengers, and were routinely used for mine detection during World War II.

The breed was officially registered by the American Kennel Club in 1997 as a member of the Herding Group.

The Canaan Dog Breed Care and Grooming

In general, herding dogs require lots of exercise daily and the Canaan dog falls right into this category. These dogs have moderately high levels of energy so take them on at least a brisk walk every day. You can also provide mental and physical stimulation by playing active games with them. If possible, provide them with herding activities, they just love that.

Grooming requirements for their short coat includes a light weekly brushing to remove dead hairs from the coat. You may want to invest in a high quality brush from Chris Christensen products.

These dogs are very clean without the typical doggie odor.

The breed is a seasonal heavy shedder.