The Alaunt Dog: A Unique Blend of Mastiff and Sighthound

Author

Reads 1.2K

A Hunter with a Hunting Dog
Credit: pexels.com, A Hunter with a Hunting Dog

The Alaunt dog is a rare and ancient breed that originated from the Middle East. It's a unique blend of a mastiff and a sighthound.

The Alaunt's ancestors were known to be used for hunting large game such as deer and wild boar. Their powerful build and keen eyesight made them an ideal breed for this task.

The Alaunt's short, smooth coat requires minimal grooming, making it a great choice for busy owners.

See what others are reading: Boxer Dogs Health Concerns

Breed Characteristics

The Alaunt breed is a large and varied one, with three distinct types: the alant veautre, alant boucherie, and alant gentile. These dogs were bred for work and were known for their intelligence and trainability.

The Alaunt is a large breed, typically weighing between 25-50 pounds and standing between 22-33 inches tall. Males tend to be slightly larger than females, with an average weight of 42.5 pounds and an average height of 27.5 inches.

In terms of grooming, the Alaunt is a low-maintenance breed that requires minimal grooming and sheds very little. This makes them a great choice for busy owners who don't have a lot of time to devote to dog care.

Here are some key breed characteristics:

Savant: Mastiff Foundation, Sighthound Expression

Two Men in Camouflage Walking in the Field with a Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Two Men in Camouflage Walking in the Field with a Dog

The Alaunt breed has its roots in the Alani tribes, who were known for their exceptional breeding skills, particularly with horses and dogs. They developed the breed for work and created different strains for specific tasks.

The Alaunt's head shape is a key characteristic, and it's often confused with the brachycephalic breeds. However, the Alaunt has a long, broad, flat head that's narrow at the base and long in length.

The Alaunt's bite is a topic of interest, with a preferred reverse scissor bite, similar to the mastiff. This bite type is a result of genetic traits, and it's not to be confused with the modified brachycephalic breeds.

The Alaunt's bite force is considered ordinary, ranging from 200 to 400 PSI. This is a significant amount of strength, but it's not something to fear if the dog is well-trained and managed.

The Alaunt's temperament is often calm and gentle, making them great companions for families. They're also relatively easy to care for, which is a bonus for many dog owners.

Portrait of Dog
Credit: pexels.com, Portrait of Dog

Here's a comparison of the Alaunt's bite force to other breeds:

Keep in mind that the Alaunt's bite force is still quite powerful, so it's essential to teach them not to bite from an early age. With proper training and socialization, an Alaunt can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Worth a look: Dog Bite

Size and Weight

The Alaunt breed is a large and sturdy dog, typically growing to be around 22-33 inches in height and weighing anywhere from 25-50 pounds, depending on its sex and size classification.

On average, a male Alaunt weighs around 42.5 pounds, while a female weighs around 32.5 pounds. This size and weight range is suitable for an active family that can provide regular exercise and a balanced diet.

To give you a better idea, here's a breakdown of the Alaunt's size and weight:

Keep in mind that every dog is different, and regular check-ups with a veterinarian can help ensure your Alaunt stays healthy and within a healthy weight range.

Pros and Cons

Credit: youtube.com, The Yorkie Poo: Complete Breed Guide. Size, Pros & Cons, Health Issues

The Alaunt breed is known for its wonderful characteristics that make it an excellent companion for many families. They have great intelligence, making them one of the smartest dog breeds around.

One of the biggest advantages of owning an Alaunt is how easy they are to train. Their intelligence and willingness to please make them very responsive to commands and training.

Alaunts are also very healthy dogs, which is a huge plus for any dog owner. They require minimal grooming, which means less time and effort spent on keeping them clean and looking their best.

In terms of shedding, Alaunts are a low-maintenance breed, shedding very little to none at all. This makes them a great choice for people with allergies or who prefer a cleaner home.

Alaunts are also known for their low drooling tendency, which is a big plus for anyone who doesn't want to deal with slobbery messes. And, they have a low chance of bad smell, which is always a bonus.

Boy with Old English Shepedog
Credit: pexels.com, Boy with Old English Shepedog

Here are some key pros and cons of the Alaunt breed:

  • Intelligence Rating: Smart
  • Training Difficulty: Easy
  • Health Concerns: Very healthy
  • Grooming Requirements: Minimal
  • Shedding Level: None to minimal
  • Drooling Tendency: Low
  • Stinkiness Rating: Low
  • Watchdog Rating: Excellent
  • Mouthing Tendency: Low
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: Low
  • Child Compatibility: Excellent
  • Dog Friendly: Excellent
  • Senior Citizens Friendly: Excellent
  • Good For First Time Owners: Excellent

Overall, the Alaunt breed is a fantastic choice for many families, offering a unique combination of intelligence, health, and low-maintenance care.

Health and Care

The Alaunt is a relatively healthy dog breed, with very few visits to the veterinarian. They have an average lifespan of 11 years, and with proper care, they can live a long and happy life.

The Alaunt is well-suited for a variety of climates, tolerating both warm and cold weather due to their double coat of fur. They require minimal grooming, with only occasional ear and eye cleaning needed to prevent infections.

The Alaunt's low-maintenance coat is a great advantage for busy owners or those who are new to dog ownership. They also have a low drooling tendency and a low chance of bad smell, making them a great choice for many families.

Here's a quick rundown of the Alaunt's care requirements:

Health and Lifespan

Italian Spinone Dog in a Tranquil Field Setting
Credit: pexels.com, Italian Spinone Dog in a Tranquil Field Setting

The Alaunt breed is known for its remarkable health and lifespan. They are a very healthy dog breed, rarely meeting with the veterinarian.

The average lifespan of an Alaunt is around 11 years, which is a testament to their robust health. With proper care, an Alaunt can live up to 12 years.

If you have an Alaunt, you can expect to take them to the vet for a complete physical check-up at least every 12-18 months. However, it's recommended to visit the vet once a year to ensure your dog stays healthy.

Here's a quick reference guide to help you remember the vet care frequency for your Alaunt:

By following this guide and providing regular care, you can help your Alaunt live a long and healthy life.

Allergies and Grooming

If you're an allergy sufferer, it's essential to consider the Alaunt's hypoallergenic status. Unfortunately, Alaunt dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers, causing allergic reactions in some people. Most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.

Credit: youtube.com, 6 Best ways to cure your Pit bull's skin allergies at home!

The Alaunt requires minimal grooming, making it a great choice for beginners or those who don't have time to care for a high-maintenance dog. Seasonal flea treatment is necessary, but cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't required.

Here are some key grooming requirements to keep in mind:

The Alaunt is a low-drooling breed, making it a great choice for those who dislike being covered in slobber. If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, it's essential to contact a vet as soon as possible.

Weight Management

The Alaunt breed requires regular exercise to stay fit and happy. Daily walks are a must to maintain their physical health.

Feeding your Alaunt the right amount of food is crucial. They need 1.5 to 2.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

If you notice any weight gain in your Alaunt, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure their weight regularly.

To prevent obesity, find the happy medium between exercise and feeding. This will help your Alaunt live a long and healthy life.

Dog Age in Human Years

Credit: youtube.com, The Truth About Dog Years (Your Pupper Is Older Than You Think!)

Dogs age at a different rate than humans, and understanding this can help you provide the best care for your furry friend. For example, a 1-year-old Alaunt is equivalent to a 14-year-old human.

The aging process for dogs is a gradual one, and it's essential to consider this when planning their care. A 2-year-old Alaunt, for instance, is equivalent to a 20-year-old human, but a 3-year-old Alaunt is equivalent to a 21-year-old human.

As your dog grows older, their needs will change, and it's crucial to be aware of these changes. A 4-year-old Alaunt is equivalent to a 22-year-old human, while a 5-year-old Alaunt is equivalent to a 23-year-old human.

Here's a breakdown of your Alaunt's age in human years:

  • 1 year old Alaunt: 14 human years
  • 2 year old Alaunt: 21 human years
  • 3 year old Alaunt: 21 human years
  • 4 year old Alaunt: 22 human years
  • 5 year old Alaunt: 23 human years
  • 6 year old Alaunt: 24 human years
  • 7 year old Alaunt: 25 human years
  • 8 year old Alaunt: 26 human years
  • 9 year old Alaunt: 27 human years
  • 10 year old Alaunt: 29 human years
  • 11 year old Alaunt: 30 human years
  • 12 year old Alaunt: 32 human years
  • 13 year old Alaunt: 33 human years
  • 14 year old Alaunt: 35 human years
  • 15 year old Alaunt: 36 human years
  • 16 year old Alaunt: 38 human years
  • 17 year old Alaunt: 40 human years
  • 18 year old Alaunt: 42 human years

Frequently Asked Questions

What did an Alaunt look like?

The Alaunt was a large, short-coated dog with varying head-types. Its physical characteristics suggest a robust and versatile breed.

What are the descendants of Alaunt dogs?

The Alaunt's legacy lives on in breeds like the Plummer Alaunt, Great Lakes Bulldogge, and American Alaunt, which were influenced by its characteristics and reputation. These breeds, along with others like the Ambullneo Mastiff and Bandogges, carry on the Alaunt's genetic and cultural heritage.

Jenny Koss

Writer

Jenny Koss is a seasoned writer with a passion for storytelling and a knack for uncovering unique tales. Her writing career has taken her from the rolling hills of the countryside to the bustling streets of the city, where she's covered a wide range of topics with curiosity and enthusiasm. With a keen eye for detail and a love of adventure, Jenny has tackled subjects as varied as truffle hunting, where she immersed herself in the ancient art of foraging for the world's most prized fungi.

Love What You Read? Stay Updated!

Join our community for insights, tips, and more.