In the Beginning

Drs. Rudolph and Rudolphina Menzel developed the Canaan Dog as a breed in the 1930‚Äôs from modern day Israel. The Canaan Dog was derived from ancient pariah dogs. Therefore, the breed itself is not an ancient, but the stock from which the Drs. Menzel selected from is. The Menzel’s wrote the first breed standard for which all other standards are and should be based upon. The first four Canaan Dogs were imported to the United States in the 1960‚Äôs.
Read more about the Menzels and history of the Canaan Dog.

A Range of Styles

The range of style in Canaan Dogs is often confusing. Because desert pariah dogs exhibited a range of appearances, the Menzel’s classified these canines into four types:

• Types I ‚Äì heavy, sheepdog appearance
• Type II ‚Äì dingo-like
• Type III ‚Äì noble, aristocratic collie appearance*
• Type IV ‚Äì greyhound appearance

Canaan Dogs are a derivative of the Type III pariah dog Рthe noble, aristocratic collie type*. Although ideal Canaan Dog type is indicated as Type III, the observer must remember the Menzel’s indicated Canaan Dogs style has a range. The ultimate goal of the Canaan Dog breeder is to approach the Type III pariah dog (collie-type). Read more about the range of Canaan Dog styles.

*Collie type refers to the type of farm collie found in the 1930’s. A medium dog of moderate head type more similar to today’s border collie, not the refined rough coated collie.

Canaan Dog Temperament

The Canaan Dog is a unique and versatile companion dog. An apt partner for any area of dog sport, whether conformation, agility, herding, tracking, or obedience, the Canaan Dog is equipped to compete.

Intelligence, keen senses, and versatility are common traits. Canaan Dogs are sensitive and independent creatures that need a firm, yet benevolent leader willing to invest significant time and effort toward early training and socialization.

Naturally clean and mild-mannered, the Canaan Dog is a welcome house pet.

Things to Consider…

Canaan Dogs require a lot of time, energy, and patience from their owners during their first two years of life. The ideal owner of a Canaan Dog is a person who believes in firm rules that are enforced, has a sense of humor, and a genuine interest in natural dog behavior.
Canaan Dogs do best with a leader who is in control. Insecure adolescent Canaan Dogs gain confidence when their handler exudes a sense of confidence. This is a breed which needs a leader, a manager, and someone with whom to foster a bond of mutual trust.

Read more about the pros and cons of owning a Canaan Dog.