10 Best Dog Breeds from Africa

Dog breeds that have originated in Africa always get noticed in dog parks – it does not matter what they are doing. They may be hunting with ferret partners such as Pharaoh Hounds or holding the centerstage as treasured pets of the rich such as Coton de Tulears. While they are not as readily available in the USA (United States of America), they are prized across the plateau continent because they can serve specific purposes.

Experts say that a lot of these dog breeds are sighthounds. It means that they hunt based primarily on sight rather than scent. They are lean and exceptional runners.

They also process the medications stored in their body fat differently. It is significant when the vet decides on the appropriate anesthetic protocol for such a dog compared to ones with normal body fat. They further recommend finding vets with knowledge of African breeds if you wish to get such a pup.

1. Basenji

Basenji is sassy and lively (spry), called an “African Barkless Dog. Now, it might seem attractive to you, but experts say you need to wait; till you hear them yodel. They have some pipes – it sounds almost like an air-raid siren. They are so independent in their temperament that it is similar to cats. However, they are always fond of their parents. It is especially so when you can keep this breed of hunting dog from Central Africa engaged with activities that enrich their already sharp minds and bodies.

2. Boerboel 

Boerboel is a breed of massive dogs from South Africa. They are loyal, protective, courageous, and loving. They are referred to as African Lion Dogs or South African Mastiffs. Despite being 200 pounds, they are agile and full of life. They are not found that abundantly in the USA. However, in 2016 a member of this breed named Obilo debuted for them in the well-known Westminster Dog Show.

3. Rhodesian Ridgeback 

Are you an experienced dog parent who wants an affectionate and dedicated pup to take on hunting expeditions? In that case, you would like a Rhodesian Ridgeback. These energetic and powerful dogs are from South Africa and need focused training. Apart from that, they need vets with the highest skill levels. Because of their unique fur that looks like a cowlick, it always sticks up along their backs. It poses problems for them – it is an inverted tissue that creates abnormalities in their development.

4. Saluki 

Saluki is a breed of slender, speedy, and elegant dogs. They can glide across long distances in the most joyful way possible. Hence, make sure that your fences are secure. They can run at 40 mph (miles per hour) on average. They may have flowing locks, but below/underneath, these dogs have strong athletes. This special canine is for active families mainly. They do not like cold weather, but this is something you should expect given that this ancient breed was once the favorite of Middle Eastern and Egyptian loyalty.

5. Pharaoh Hound 

Pharaoh Hounds are yet another Egyptian breed that has been commemorated in hieroglyphics. It must be said that they are aptly named as well. They are noble, playful, and intelligent. However, this African breed is a skilled hunter too. It is especially so when they have a little help from their friends. Pharaoh Hound Club of America says if you have ferrets with bells around their necks, they would find prey in small spaces, and the intelligent Pharaoh hounds would follow those sounds to get the location.

6. Coton de Tulear

It is not as if you would only find a wide range of lemurs if you visited Madagascar. Here, you would find the pampered and fluffy Coton de Tulear. They are energetic, cuddly, and great with children. It is a rare breed that does not share much and is hypoallergenic. If you are interested in this love bug, you must ensure you have researched breeders with much care.     

7. Aidi

Aidi is a rare breed of dog, especially when you think of the USA. They are a superior breed of shepherd dogs from Africa and are found primarily in the Atlas Mountains. It means that you would find them safeguarding livestock across the following countries:

• Algeria
• Morocco

Tunisia  They have thick coats that help them protect themselves from ferocious predators, and they take their work rather seriously as well. They may be devoted family members, but they are rowdy as individuals. Also, they always do better with early training and socialization.

8. Sloughi

The origin story of Sloughi is a tad murky. However, not many dog breeds know the deserts of Northern Africa better than this ancient breed. It is a dedicated sighthound hunter who is fleet of feet. Their nickname is Arabian Greyhound. They are attentive to their humans but tend to be standoffish with people they do not know. They do not weigh over 70 pounds, and at their shoulders, they are not taller than 29 inches. They are lanky and slender dogs with strong muscles that allow them to grab their prey well!

9. Azawakh

The roots of Azawakh dogs are in the following countries in Western Africa:

• Burkina Faso
• Mali
• Niger

It was in the late 1980s that they appeared in the USA. Now, they may resemble greyhounds in appearance, but they have much longer legs, and they are a bit cleaner too. Now, as improbable as that may sound, it is true indeed! They are gentle and sweet and need daily positive physical and mental stimulation. It is something that every dog needs, though!

10. Africanis

Africanis means African dog is easily the best description for this classic and nomadic shepherd dog breed. Experts believe they represent Africa’s indigenous canines, particularly from the South of the Equator. It is one of the few breeds in the world – let alone the continent – that have evolved sans human interference.

They are faithful and friendly. Moreover, these athletic individuals are naturally people-oriented. They also enjoy taking part in activities such as agility training and hiking with their human friends. An interesting thing about these dogs is that they can be anywhere between medium size and giant.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the newest dog breed from Africa?

AKC (American Kennel Club) now recognizes Azawakh as an ancient hunting sighthound that originated in West Africa. Its inclusion in the AKC fold has been a matter of great excitement for the club. After all, this is a wonderful breed that has been there for thousands of years, and with this recognition, dog lovers in the USA have been introduced to it as well.

What are African Wild Dogs also known as?

African wild dogs are known by several common names in English, such as the following:

• African Hunting Dogs
• Cape Hunting Dogs
• Painted Dogs
• Painted Wolves

The common name of this breed is African Wild Dog. However, in the series Dynasties, telecasted on BBC (British Broadcasting Corporation), they were called Painted Wolves. After the series was released, there has been some change in how this species is addressed.

Which is the most famous dog breed in Africa?

Basenji is among the more famous dog breeds in Africa. They are small dogs measuring no longer than 17 inches at their shoulders, and they weigh between 22 and 24 pounds. They have short and shimmery coats, with white being the predominant color.

Conclusion 

If you want to get a dog from Africa as a pet, the worst choice that you can make is to get an African Wild Dog. Please remember that it is hard to find them in the USA. In most states, it is illegal to choose them as pets like other wild canines, such as foxes and wolves. These exotic wild dogs are hyper-carnivores. Thus, 70% of their diet must be meat. So, if you want an African dog, go for a Rhodesian Ridgeback, Basenji, or a Coton de Tulear.