Mahratta Hound

The Mahratta Hound is a sighthound of the Deccan, kept by Maratha households for coursing hare and small game.

History

It belongs to the family of Indian sighthounds that also includes the Mudhol and the Chippiparai, descended from dogs brought along caravan routes into the Deccan plateau. It is associated with the Maratha country of western India and survives with rural keepers rather than through any breeding programme.

Temperament

The breed is known for being reserved, loyal to one household and highly independent, tolerant of heat and quiet at rest.

Care and training

It needs room to run and secure fencing; the prey drive is genuine. The short coat needs nothing.

Health

Generally hardy; the sighthound sensitivity to anaesthesia applies and nothing else is documented. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.