Top African Dog Breeds That You’ll Want to Add to Your Pack

Dogs have been a part of African life for centuries, playing important roles in both rural and urban communities.

In many parts of Africa, dogs are still used for hunting and herding, as well as guard dogs and property. They are also beloved companions, often treated as members of the family.

How did Africa get Dogs?

The history of African dog breeds is a long and varied one.

Dogs were first brought to the continent by Arab traders in the seventh century, and they quickly became popular pets among the wealthy classes.

By the ninth century, dogs were so common in Egypt that they were regulated by law.

In the centuries that followed, dogs spread throughout Africa, becoming an integral part of many cultures.

The Khalidah, for example, is a small dog that was once used by Egyptian royalty to catch rats and mice.

Today, however, they are more likely to be found lounging on a couch than chasing vermin. 

No matter what their breed or history, all African dogs are special.

They play an important role in the continent’s cultures and traditions, and they bring joy to the lives of those who own them.

If you’re looking for a furry friend, there’s no better place to look than Africa.

What Breed of Dog Comes from Africa?

1. Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a dog breed originating in Southern Africa.

The name “Ridgeback” refers to the characteristic ridge of hair running along its back.

This breed was originally developed for hunting purposes and is still used for this purpose in some parts of the world.

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is a large, muscular dog with a dense coat.

They are intelligent, loyal, and affectionate dogs that make great family pets.

However, they can also be strong-willed and stubborn, so early training and socialization are important.

You can check out the best Rhodesian Ridgeback dog names if you are thinking of getting this breed.

2. Africanis

The Africanis is a type of landrace dog native to sub-Saharan Africa.

These dogs are of no particular breed or type and vary greatly in appearance.

However, they all share certain common characteristics such as being hardy, intelligent, and resourceful.

Africanis dogs are not recognized by any major kennel club, but there is an increasing interest in them as pets.

3. Boerboel

The Boerboel is a large, solidly built mastiff-type dog breed from South Africa.

Originally bred to be a working farm dog, the Boerboel is a versatile and intelligent breed that excels at many different tasks.

Today, the Boerboel is still used as a working dog on farms, but they also make excellent family pets.

Boerboels have short, thick coats that come in a variety of colors including black, brown, fawn, brindle, and piebald.

The Boerboel is an intelligent breed that is easy to train. Due to their loyal and protective nature, they make excellent guard dogs.

4. Basenji

The Basenji is a small hound dog that originates from the Congo Basin in Central Africa.

These dogs were originally bred to hunt game birds, and they are still used for this purpose today in some parts of Africa.

Basenjis are known for their distinctive bark, which is actually produced by their unique larynx.

Basenjis do not bark like other dogs but make a yodeling sound known as “barroo” instead.

These dogs are also very curious and playful and make great companions for active families.

They are also very clean dogs, groom themselves as cats do.

5. African Wild Dog

The African Wild Dog, also called the Painted Wolf, is a large canine that is found in sub-Saharan Africa.

These animals are highly social creatures that live in packs of up to 30 individuals.

African Wild Dogs are excellent hunters, and they use their keen sense of smell to track down their prey.

These animals are endangered due to habitat loss and persecution by humans, but there are several conservation efforts underway to protect them.

6. Pharaoh Hound

The Pharaoh Hound is a breed of dog that originates from the Mediterranean island of Malta.

The breed is named after the ancient Egyptian god Anubis, who was often depicted as a jackal-headed deity.

The Pharaoh Hound is one of the oldest known breeds of dogs and has been described in documents dating back to the 16th century.

The breed has a short, fine coat that comes in a variety of colors, including red, fawn, brindle, black, and tan.

The most distinguishing feature of the Pharaoh Hound is its large, erect ears, which are said to resemble the ears of a jackal.

The Pharaoh Hound is an intelligent breed that is easy to train.

They are quick learners and excel at obedience and agility trials.

Pharaoh Hounds are also known for their friendly and outgoing personalities.

You can check out the best Pharaoh dog names if you have this breed as a pet.

Final Words

African dog breeds are known for their loyalty, courage, and love of family.

These loyal dog breeds make great companions and are excellent protectors.

Many of these breeds are also very intelligent, making them easy to train.

As they have a low incidence of health problems they are relatively low maintenance compared to other dog breeds.

If you’re looking for a loyal, loving, and intelligent dog, an African breed may be the perfect choice for you.