Despite receiving a ₹5 crore upgrade, Tamil Nadu’s only government-run native dog breeding facility in Saidapet has remained unused and locked for over four months. The centre, which comprises 51 kennels spread across seven row-style structures, currently lacks a functioning operator, and the state is facing difficulties in sourcing purebred native dog varieties such as Rajapalayam, Kombai, Kanni, and Chippiparai.
According to Dr. R. Kannan, Director of the Animal Husbandry Department, the Tamil Nadu Veterinary and Animal Sciences University (TANUVAS) is still in the process of identifying a reliable and scientifically verified gene pool for breeding. “We can only begin once we acquire dogs with proven lineage. Although many breeders claim to offer native breeds, we will only proceed after ensuring their genetic authenticity,” he explained. Currently, officials have only managed to obtain dogs from closely related bloodlines, and they aim to initiate operations within a month.
TANUVAS professor Dr. B. Thilagar highlighted the dangers of inbreeding, particularly among Rajapalayam dogs, which often suffer from congenital conditions like deafness due to limited genetic diversity. “Most cases we examine trace back to dogs with shared ancestry. That’s why it’s crucial to bring in dogs from different regions with diverse genes,” he said.
He noted that in some regions of Tirunelveli, gifting a Kanni pup to newlyweds was once a common tradition. “The dog would move with the bride to her new home and mate there, which naturally diversified the breed’s gene pool. Though rare now, such cultural practices might still exist and could help us find unique bloodlines,” he added. Dr. Thilagar also pointed out that descendants of the historic Palayakarargal (local chieftains) might still possess native breed dogs. During the colonial period, these chieftains are known to have crossbred native dogs with British greyhounds, resulting in strong hounds suited for hunting.
Animal welfare advocate Antony Rubin echoed concerns about breeding within the same gene pool, warning that it could lead to health complications such as deafness or blindness. “People often abandon such dogs after discovering their disabilities. That’s why ethical and scientific breeding is essential,” he said.
(With inputs from Times of India)
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