The Africanis is an old breed developed naturally in South Africa however, it has only been recently recognized as an official breed. Originally AfriCanis referred to all African dogs collectively, but over the years it developed into its own breed. This breed is resourceful with a slim, muscular build.
Africanis History
As mentioned above, the Africanis originated in Africa, after being developed naturally. The lineage of the breed can be traced back as far as 7000 years ago and their ancestors can be seen in cave art and Egyptian murals. They are referred to as “The Original Dog of Africa”, and are endemic to South Africa.
In pre-colonial South Africa, the Africanis was a valued breed for their hardiness and hunting ability, as well as their intelligence and loyalty. In the 21st century there was a shift and they started to be thought of as mongrels and street dogs as they were seen throughout the streets in the villages. There is currently work taking place to change the perception of the Africanis, and it was through this work that the breed found a name.
Africanis Characteristics
The Africanis breed has a comprehensive standard and sees a wide variation from dog to dog. These slender, athletic dogs can grow to be quite big with both the male and female able to become 24 inches and 100 pounds.
They have a short, sparse coat that can come in any combination of colors. However, it is recommended not to breed diluted, or blue coats due to health issues. The same is recommended for those who have blue, or dual colored eyes.
Africanis Temperament/Personality
Africanis make excellent family pets as they’ve developed being by people, and not created by them. They can be great with people of all ages, including children, as they show patience and gentleness towards them.
At the same time, the Africanis has an inherent need to be free, so sometimes they need their space, and may not want to have a lot of physical contact. They get along with other dogs and pets, unless their owners are being directly threatened.
Caring for Africanis’
The Africanis requires very little maintenance. The low maintenance requirements stem from thousands of years of making it on its own, it has naturally evolved to take care of itself.
Africanis Nutrition
On average, Africanis’ should eat about 2 ½ cups of premium kibble a day. The breed is highly active so ensuring your dog is getting enough, of the right type, of nutrition is important so that they don’t become underweight.
Africanis Grooming
When it comes to grooming the Africanis, there isn’t much that is required. Brushing them every week or so is generally enough, just to get rid of any loose hair or debris. Only bathe them when needed, if you bathe them too often, they will lose the natural oils on their skin and that can open them up to environmental hazards.
Africanis Activity Levels
Exercise is one area in which you will need to focus on with an Africanis. They have a great deal of energy and stamina and will need to get a good workout in for about 60 to 90 minutes each day. Running, over walking, is much more appreciated by this breed. Various vigorous exercises and activities are great for the Africanis.
Africanis Maintenance
There isn’t a lot of maintenance required with the Africanis. Their ears should be checked regularly to ensure they are free from debris and wax buildup, and that they are clean and dry.
Africanis Health
The Africanis has naturally built up a resistance to many internal and external parasites, so there aren’t many health issues to be concerned with. One thing that you may want to look out for are dermoid sinus. And occasionally, they have developed entropion or ectropion. Overall though, Africanis are extremely an extremely healthy breed.
Breeds Similar to Africanis
- Chihuahua
- Basset Bleu de Gascogne
- Bavarian Mountain Scent Hound
- Italian Greagle
- Styrian Course Haired Hound
- Labmaraner
- Malinois X
Best Dog Food for Africanis
Upon in-depth analysis of Africanis’ energy requirements and their lean physique, the best dog food for Africanis would be Blue Buffalo Wilderness Dry Dog Food. This dog food is precisely formulated to have natural chicken as its first ingredient, which not only makes it protein-rich but is also the reason behind its rich flavorful taste. The addition of the exclusive LifeSource Bits has further enhanced the quality, as that makes it a better choice for apt maintenance of your Africanis’ digestive and immune system.
- Features a rich blend of fruits, vegetables, and complex carbohydrates which keep your Africanis’ energy levels up round the clock
- Fortified with omega-fatty acids
- The recipe is devoid of any artificial flavors, meat by-products, and fillers.
Best Puppy Food for Africanis
The best puppy food that helps your Africanis puppy develop the sturdiest build and better health is Purina ONE SmartBlend Healthy Puppy Formula Puppy Food. This puppy food has natural meat as its primary ingredient, so it provides a higher fraction of protein to your Africanis, which is vital for your pup’s organ development. The efficient blend of antioxidants and minerals makes this puppy food further suitable for your Africanis puppy’s growth.
- Helps build sturdier muscle
- Does not contain any fillers
- Features a mouth-watering formula
Best Dog Crate for Africanis
To ensure a better and safer abode for your Africanis, you have to buy the best dog crate for him, and the best one in this regard would be Frisco Collapsible Wire Dog Crate. This dog crate is engineered to have a sturdy built, which helps it carry a dog that is as strong as your Africanis. The use of electro-coated wires has made this crate a more reliable and long-lasting option for your Africanis.
- Comes with divider panels to give you the freedom to manage your Africanis’ space as per his size
- Features double doors for greater flexibility in movement
- The doors are securely latched with a dual-latch mechanism.
Best Dog Bed for Africanis
The best dog bed to help your Africanis regain his energy levels after a busy day is Snoozer Pet Products Luxury Overstuffed Dog Bed. This dog bed is an elegant sofa-like bed, which is stuffed with high-quality polyester. The makers have used a soft and durable micro-suede fabric to cover the surface, so your Africanis will have a relaxing experience.
- Provides orthopedic support to joints and muscles and help relieve muscle pains
- Can be washed in a washing machine
- Features bolstered sides to help your Africanis recline and relax.
Best Dog Harness for Africanis
To help you steer your Africanis as efficiently as possible, you have to bring the best dog harness for him, and the most appropriate one in this regard would be the PetSafe Easy Walk Dog Harness. This dog harness has a very simple yet durable design. The presence of a martingale loop at the chest avoids your leash’s chances of getting tangled and causing any difficulties in the walking sessions.
- Features durable front and back leash attaching rings
- Available in a wide range of sizes
- Comes with four adjustment points for greater flexibility in size
Best Dog Collars for Africanis
The best dog collar to provide a unique and comfortable walking experience with your Africanis would be the Blueberry Pet 3M Reflective Spring Pastel Dog Collar. This dog collar is designed entirely using nylon, while neoprene padding is added to enhance your Africanis’ comfort. The entire collar is stitched using a reflective material, so it also helps you take your Africanis out for a walk at nighttime without any fear of losing your pet pal’s sight.
- Available in bright and lucrative spring colors
- Comes in various sizes
- Features a buckle that is made using eco-friendly plastic
Best Dog Muzzle for Africanis
If you are thinking of buying equipment that would help you manage your Africanis’ behavioral ills, the first thing that comes to mind is a muzzle, and the best dog muzzle for your Africanis would be the Four Paws Walk-About Quick-Fit Dog Muzzle. This dog muzzle is fully made of nylon and has been stitched efficiently to provide a durable experience. The fitting of this muzzle is completely adjustable so that you can fix it as per your requirement.
- Available in seven sizes
- Professionals often use this muzzle for behavioral management sessions.
- Helps control barking, biting, and nipping habits
Best Dog Toys for Africanis
You have to bring in some enticing toy to satisfy your Africanis’ active soul, so the best dog toy for Africanis would be KONG Flyer Frisbee Dog Toy. This dog toy is designed to be a durable and long-lasting playmate for your Africanis by having a high-quality rubber as a primary component for its construction. The material is quite gentle on Africanis teeth and gums, so your Africanis can conveniently hold it between his jaws.
- A great choice for fetching games
- Helps improve your coordination with your Africanis
- Features a flexible and buoyant structure
Best Dog Brush for Africanis
The best dog brush to give a glossy and sleek look to your Africanis is Safari Soft Slicker Brush. This dog brush has been designed to have soft stainless steel pins angled at 90o to avoid any possible chances to rake your African skin. It gives your Africanis a smooth look by efficiently removing any loose hair and removing tangles and matts.
- Features an ergonomically designed handle
- Comes with a rubber sheathed handle
- Helps improve blood circulation and stimulate hair growth
Best Dog Shampoo for Africanis
The best dog shampoo for optimizing your Africanis grooming session would be PetAg Fresh ‘N Clean Scented Dog Shampoo. This shampoo helps you cleanse your Africanis’ coat from any tough dirt or debris which you cannot remove with a brushing session. The addition of botanical cleansers makes this shampoo efficient in its task.
- Features a formula that is efficient enough to nourish your Africanis’ skin and coat
- Gives a unique floral scent to your Africanis, which lasts for two weeks
- Features a soap and alcohol-free formula
Recommended Reading:
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- Best Dog House
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