All about Mudhol Hound, an indigenous breed of dogs
In 2022, the Special Protection Group (SPG) squad, which is in charge of providing security cover for Prime Minister Narendra Modi, included Mudhol Hounds, an indigenous breed of dogs from Karnataka. It is the first Indian canine to be accepted into the Army This breed is renowned for its agility, hunting prowess, loyalty, and guarding abilities. Here's more about it.
SPG officials picked up two puppies from CRIC in April
In April this year, the SPG officials visited the Canine Research and Information Centre (CRIC) at Thimmapur in Karnataka's Bagalkot district. They showed interest in the Mudhol Hound breed and picked up two puppies for training. Later, the security team of PM Modi confirmed their selection after considering the vitality of Rajapalayam dog breed from Tamil Nadu and Rampur greyhound from Uttar Pradesh.
Characteristics of the Mudhol Hound breed
This breed got its name from the kingdom of Mudhol, the rulers of which were the first to breed them. These dogs weigh between 20 to 22 kilograms and can grow up to 72 centimeters tall. They have a slim physical appearance and long legs. They boast an excellent stamina and agility along with a keen sense of smell and sharp vision.
History of Mudhol Hounds
The Mudhol Hound has been recognized by the Indian National Kennel Club - a registry of purebred dogs in the country. It is believed that the Mudhol Hounds were first bred by Raja Malojirao Ghorpade of the Deccan kingdom of Mudhol. He also presented these dogs to King George V on a visit to England, following which the breed got its name.
Their role in the Indian Armed Forces
These dogs can see things from a long distance, which makes them quite vigilant. They were first trained in 2016, with Remount Veterinary Corps (RVC) training them to sniff out explosives. The National Security Guard (NSG) is also training them to track enemy movements along the border. The Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) will also be including them in their canine force.
PM Modi's take on the Mudhol Hound breed
The Mudhol Hound breed was first mentioned by PM Modi in 2018 at a rally in Jamkhandi in the Bagalkot district of Karnataka. He had mentioned that "Mudhol breed dogs were going out to protect the nation with a new battalion." During his 2020 Mann Ki Baat address, he said, "Among the Indian breeds, Mudhol hound and Himachali hound are of excellent pedigree."
