Jonangi

Jonangi
Origin	South India
Breed status	Not recognised as a breed by any major kennel club.
Traits Height Males 18–22 in (46–56 cm) Females 18–22 in (46–56 cm) Weight Males 55–85 lb (25–39 kg) Females 45–65 lb (20–29 kg) Coat Short, dense Color White, white with occasional black spots, black, grey, brindle
Dog ( domestic dog )

The Jonangi, also known as Jonangi Jagilam ^[1] or Kolleti Jagilam, ^[2] is an indigenous dog breed from India. Primarily found in Andhra Pradesh, parts of Karnataka, and along the eastern coast from West Bengal to Tamil Nadu, ^[3] it was historically common near Kolleru Lake in West Godavari and Krishna districts. The Jonangi is a short-haired breed traditionally used for hunting, herding, and guarding. ^{[4] [5] [6]}

While not recognized by major kennel clubs, the breed is showcased at local beach festivals in Andhra Pradesh.

Jonangi dogs on guard duty

Characteristics

Temperament

The Jonangi ^[7] is typically loyal to a single person or family. An agile breed, it is capable of covering large distances efficiently.

Most Jonangis serve as effective working dogs, guarding properties and livestock. They coexist well with farm animals including poultry, goats, sheep, and cattle. The breed is known for digging ditches for resting. Proper socialization and positive reinforcement training can produce confident adult dogs suitable as family companions.

Breeding

Females typically come into heat biannually, with litter sizes ranging from 3–5 puppies. Their fertility rates are comparable to other Indian dog breeds.

Historical and current use

Traditionally employed for hunting small game, herding ducks, and as watchdogs, ^[8] their primary function as duck herders around Kolleru Lake diminished with the shift to aquaculture.

Conservation status

Population decline

Previously widespread along India's coastline, the breed's numbers drastically declined as duck farming decreased. Considered pests by some aquaculture farmers, many Jonangis were killed, pushing the breed toward extinction. Surviving dogs developed unique fishing behaviors in their semi-feral state.

Revival efforts

Currently found mainly in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Maharashtra, and Goa, the breed has gained renewed interest among Asil chicken breeders and farmers for livestock protection. ^[9]

A fully grown Jonangi

Jonangi from Konkan Coast. (Courtesy: Shailesh Nabar)

See also

• Dogs portal
• List of dog breeds
• List of dog breeds from India

References

1. "Breed Stewards: Part 2 - The Jonangi's Great Revival by Koteswara Rao Garu | DesiHounds.in". DesiHounds.in. 2017-01-25. Archived from the original on 2017-03-05. Retrieved 2017-03-04.
2. "Jonangi /Kolleti Jagila". Indiandogs.web.com. Retrieved 2017-01-11.
3. "11 Excellent but Endangered Indian Dog Breeds". PetHelpful.com. Retrieved 13 March 2019.
4. Jung, Nawab Nazeer Yar. Strolling through the Jungles. Notion Press. ISBN   9789352067497 . Retrieved 14 March 2019– via Google Books.
5. "Breeds of dog in India". Bihartimes.in. Retrieved 14 March 2019.
6. "Jonangi". The Times of India. April 18, 2020.
7. "Inspired Discussions: The Intrigue of the Jonangi by Monica Cassels | DesiHounds.in". DesiHounds.in. 2017-02-15. Archived from the original on 2017-02-16. Retrieved 2017-03-04.
8. "Woof woof brigade set to wow Bangalore". The Times of India . Retrieved 14 March 2019.
9. Rao, Soumya. "The Indian dogs that are dying out because everyone wants a Labrador". Quartz India. Retrieved 13 March 2019.