Overview
The Mudhol Hound, also called the Caravan Hound, is a sighthound from the Deccan Plateau of southern India. It takes its name from Mudhol in Karnataka, where families still raise and sell the puppies.
It is a lean, hardy working hound with a keen eye and plenty of speed. Indian kennel clubs register it under different names, and a longer-haired variety is known as the Pashmi Hound.
History
Local Bedar tribespeople hunted with these hounds for generations. In the early twentieth century the ruler of Mudhol State, Malojirao Ghorpade, used selective breeding to restore the dogs and give them a royal standing.
On a trip to England he presented a pair to King George V, which brought the breed wider fame. Today the Indian Army has tested the dogs for surveillance and border duties, and the breed appeared on an Indian postage stamp in 2005.
Appearance
The Mudhol Hound is a tall, slim, deep-chested dog built for speed, with long legs and a tucked-up waist. It has a narrow head and a keen, watchful expression.
Most have a smooth, short coat. The Pashmi variety carries more hair, especially feathering on the ears, tail and underside.
Temperament
This is a devoted, watchful dog that bonds closely with its own people and can be reserved with strangers. Like most sighthounds it is independent and quick to chase anything that moves.
It is quiet indoors when exercised well, but it is not a dog that obeys blindly, so patient, reward-based training works best.
Care and exercise
Mudhols need daily running in a safely fenced space, as their chase instinct is strong and they will outrun most owners. They should not be walked off lead in open country.
Grooming is easy: an occasional brush and wipe is enough for the smooth coat, while the Pashmi needs a little more attention to the feathering. They do best in a warm, dry home with a soft bed.
Health
The breed is generally regarded as hardy and robust, with few well-documented hereditary problems. As with other lean, deep-chested hounds, owners should be aware of bloat and take care with anaesthesia.
