Africa is home to some of the most unique and resilient dog breeds in the world, many of which have evolved to thrive in harsh and untamed environments. These dogs, domesticated and often serve as companions, are still fit and well-adapted to survive in the wild. Let’s take a look at the 10 African dog breeds that have incredible instincts, strength, histories, and the capacity to be man’s best friend.
Understanding African Dog Breeds
Africa is home to many wild and exotic animals. While we mostly consider the continent’s animals majestic beasts only found at the local zoo, Africa is home to some of the strongest, most intelligent, and spirited dog breeds on earth. With high energy levels, hunting instincts uncommon in your average household, and the capability to adapt to a multitude of environments, African dogs have unique looks, interesting temperaments, and rich histories.
1. Boerboel
The Boerboel is known as South Africa’s Mastiff. Historically bred to protect homesteads and farms, this dog is large, muscular, and powerful, weighing up to 200 pounds. As a result of interbreeding between European and African guard dogs, it is often seen as an intimidating breed and formidable opponent against intruders; however, in a loving home, Boerboels are known to be gentle giants with a loyal, intelligent streak.
2. American Pit Bull Terrier
Although not indigenous to Africa, the American Pit Bull Terrier is popular in South Africa. A medium-sized dog with short hair and well-defined musculature, it is known for its strength and loyalty. Often finding roles as a companion, guard, working, weigh-pulling, police, and therapy dogs, pit bulls are considered courageous and confident. As an eager-to-please breed, pit bulls’ temperament is entirely dependent on the environment in which they live. Therefore, in a loving home, they can be friendly, outgoing, intelligent, and comforting companions.
3. Rhodesian Ridgeback
A mixture of native ridged Khoikhoi dogs and European terriers, the Rhodesian Ridgeback was originally bred in Zimbabwe and is known for its bravery. Historically, these dogs were used as hunting dogs due to their muscular build, weighing up to 85 pounds, and keen sense of smell. Ridgebacks, gaining popularity in the U.S., are not just large game (such as lions) hunters but also loyal family protectors, with an intelligent and obedient nature.
4. Basenji
Originating from the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the Basenji is a small but agile breed with high energy levels and stamina for days. The breed is particularly known for its unique “yodeling” sound instead of barking; it is considered a quiet, intelligent, and independent dog with a long history of domestication. Despite being adapted to domestic life, their compact build and independent nature make them well-suited for survival in the wild.
5. Africanis
As a relatively primitive breed, Africanis are native to Southern Africa and have been dismissed as mongrels. However, it has a long history in Egyptian dynasties that now thrives in both urban and rural settings. The breed’s adaptability and resilience are unmatched, and they serve as herders and guardians. These dogs are particularly low maintenance, friendly, independent, and incredibly loyal, making them suitable pets.
6. Coton de Tulear
While the Coton de Tulear, native to Madagascar, is not normally seen as a dog breed capable of surviving in the wild, it is known for its keen senses and vocal nature, making it popular as a watchdog in rural communities. Small in size, and with cotton-like, white fur, the Coton de Tulear was coveted and hidden from the world by nobles of Madagascar until it was introduced to Europeans in the 1960s. The breed is known for its friendly, playful, and affectionate personality, this dog is perfect for families looking for a loyal companion.
7. Sloughi
The Sloughi is commonly found in North African countries such as Morocco, Algeria, and Tunisia. This breed, with its greyhound-like appearance, is known for its speed and endurance, keen hunting instincts, and incredible eyesight, making it the perfect guard dog. Thriving in arid environments, you wouldn’t expect that this dog is also a loyal, affectionate, attentive, and friendly companion.
8. Azawakh
The Azawakh is a sighthound bred for hunting. With a lean build, speed, agility, and striking appearance, it is often used to guard livestock and homes. Originating from the Sahel region, they are well-adapted to living in harsh desert climates but are also known as fiercely loyal companions. The breed forms deep bonds with its families and can be attentive, playful, and gentle in nature.
9. Pharaoh Hound
While technically native to the southern European island of Malta, this breed is believed to have descended from ancient Egyptian hunting dogs. The Pharaoh Hound is both elegant and capable, with a keen sense of smell and lightning speed. It was traditionally used to hunt rabbits. Together with its hunting instincts and endurance, this breed makes for a wonderful pet, as it is friendly, affectionate, gentle, and playful.
10. Aidi
Native to Morocco, the Aidi, or ‘Atlas Mountain Dog,’ is known for its protective instincts and was used to guard livestock and tribespeople. It is characterized by its thick, dense, soft coat, closely resembling traditional sheepdogs. While its wild instincts are hard-wired, with careful and extensive socialization and training, this breed is a wonderful companion, known to be intelligent, playful, powerful, obedient, and loyal.
Surviving the Wild and the Home
These incredible African dog breeds are all known for exceptional adaptability. Whether in arid deserts, open savannahs, or domesticated settings, they excel in their respective roles. Many of these breeds have been shaped by their coexistence with humans, developing unique traits to survive and thrive in Africa’s diverse ecosystems while also fulfilling an important role as man’s best friend. These breeds are a shining example of the deep bond between humans and their canine companions.
