Mudhol Hound
Updated August 11, 2025
Mudhol Hound
Updated August 11, 2025
The Mudhol Hound is a sighthound of Indian origin, bred for hunting and guarding. They are valued for their loyalty, speed, and endurance, and have recently been inducted into the Indian armed forces for their exceptional skills.
Loyal, Graceful, Courageous, Intelligent, Reserved
22-28 kg
64-72 cm
10-15 years
Fawn, Red, Cream, Black, Mouse-grey, Brindle
At a Glance
Maintenance Level
Friendliness
Energy Level
Good with Kids
Jump to Section
About Mudhol Hound
The Mudhol Hound is a sighthound of Indian origin, bred for hunting and guarding. They are valued for their loyalty, speed, and endurance, and have recently been inducted into the Indian armed forces for their exceptional skills.
What Makes Mudhol Hounds Special
The Mudhol Hound is a graceful and athletic sighthound, known for its incredible speed and stamina. They are loyal and protective of their family, with a reserved nature towards strangers.
These dogs are more of a working companion than a playful pet, excelling in roles that utilize their natural hunting and guarding instincts.
Mudhol Hound History & Origin
The Mudhol Hound's ancestry is traced back to the Saluki and Tazi, brought to India's Deccan Plateau by traders and mercenaries from Central Asia and Arabia. They were named 'Caravan Hounds' from their association with the caravans they guarded.
The breed was popularized by the ruling family of Mudhol State in present-day Karnataka, who are credited with reviving the breed.
They were the companions of the Maratha king Chhatrapati Shivaji and are also known as Maratha Hounds.
The Kennel Club of India (KCI) recognizes the breed as the 'Caravan Hound', while the Indian National Kennel Club uses 'Mudhol Hound'.
In recent years, they have gained recognition for their service in the Indian Army.
The cost of a Mudhol Hound puppy from a breeder in India can vary, but is generally more affordable than many foreign breeds.
Mudhol Hound Characteristics
Individual Variation
Dogs are individuals and not all dogs, even those of the same breed, will exhibit all the same qualities.
Care Requirements
Exercise Needs
Grooming Needs
Training Needs
Health Issues
Shedding Level
Mudhol Hound Appearance
The Mudhol Hound has a lean, muscular build that is aerodynamic and built for speed. They carry themselves with an elegant and alert presence.
Their coat is typically short and fine, coming in a variety of colors. There is also a less common feathered variety with silky fringes on the ears, legs, and tail.
Physical Features
Ears
Medium-sized, V-shaped ears that hang close to the head.
Eyes
Large, oval-shaped, and expressive, ranging in color from dark brown to hazel.
Nose
Prominently black and large.
Coat & Build
Coat Length
The coat is short and smooth. A feathered variety also exists with silky hair on the ears, legs, and tail.
Coat Color
The Mudhol Hound comes in various colors including fawn, red, cream, black, and brindle, sometimes with minimal white markings.
Tail
The tail is long, set low, and tapers to a point, carried in a natural curve.
Mudhol Hound Temperament
Mudhol Hounds are deeply loyal to their families but can be reserved and aloof with strangers, making them excellent watchdogs.
They are intelligent but possess an independent streak, which can make training a challenge for novice owners. They respond best to calm, consistent, and positive reinforcement-based training methods.
Bred for hunting, they have a very high prey drive and may not be suitable for homes with smaller pets unless socialized from a very young age.
While they can be gentle with children in their own family, their high energy and sensitivity mean interactions should always be supervised.
They are not overly playful in the traditional sense and are more focused on running and chasing, befitting their sighthound lineage.
Temperament Traits
Good With
Health
The Mudhol Hound is a generally hardy breed with a lifespan of 10 to 15 years. They have evolved to be resilient in their native environment, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health conditions.
Common Health Issues
Preventive Care
Regular veterinary check-ups, a proper diet, sufficient exercise, and early screening for genetic conditions can help ensure a long and healthy life.
How to Care for a Mudhol Hound
The Mudhol Hound is a hardy and athletic breed that requires significant exercise but minimal grooming. Understanding their independent nature is key to a harmonious life together.
Living Conditions
Space Requirements
A home with a large, securely fenced yard is a necessity.
Climate Adaptability
Tolerant of heat but sensitive to cold.
Apartment Living
Not suitable for apartment living.
Best Suited For
Best for active owners in a suburban or rural environment who can provide ample exercise.
Training Tips
Frequently Asked Questions
Specialized Care Guides
Puppy Care
Early socialization with various people, sounds, and environments is crucial. Begin gentle, positive training early.
Senior Care
Adjust exercise to their ability to prevent joint strain. Monitor for age-related health issues and maintain a healthy weight.
First-Time Owner Tips
Not recommended for first-time dog owners due to their independent nature and high exercise needs.