Kintamani

The Kintamani is a native Indonesian dog found mostly on the island of Bali. This breed is considered to be still evolving and is indigenous to a region called Kintamani in Bali. These dogs frequently breed with street dogs of Bali. According to folklore, however, these dogs are said to have originated from a Chinese breed of dogs called Chow Chow, about 600 years ago. These dogs are very popular as pets among the Balinese people mainly due to their physical traits and temperament. In a recent study to trace the genetic origins of Kintamani dogs, they were found to be most closely related to Australian Dingo dogs. Only recently, these dogs have been recognized as a distinct dog breed indigenous to Indonesia.

These dogs are much more than just common village dogs. Their coats are much longer and quite remarkably these dogs burrow into the ground to house their young. Some of these dogs have even been seen living in the caves hidden by boulders in and around the Kintamani region. In recent times, the attractive appearance of these dogs is allowing them to gain more and more popularity as household pets. These dogs have broad, thick set faces and their cheeks and foreheads are flat. In this capacity, they closely resemble the Chow Chow.

The Kintamani are mid sized dogs with thick, furry coats. Their ears are typically erect and can sometimes have apricot-shaped tips. Their tails are heavily feathered and curled up on the back. The coat typically forms a frilly mane around the shoulder. The most common and most preferred coat color is white and a mixture of white and red hairs on the very top layer of the coat, on the tail and on the hind part of the body. Some dogs may have black coats and some others have been seen with black and tan and white, gold and black patterns. These dogs have almond-shaped eyes, which are typically brown in color.

These dogs can grow up to a height of 45-55 cm, which is very similar to the specifications of Balinese street dogs. Burrowing into the ground to raise their young is one other trait they share with the street dogs. However, unlike the street dogs which can be quite ferocious towards humans and can rarely be tamed even as pups, Kintamani dogs are quite gentle and affectionate towards their families. They can, however, be fiercely territorial. They have enough aggression in them to make good watch dogs without being vicious or dangerous.

By temperament, these dogs are well known for their fierce independence. They make excellent guard dogs and are quick to alert their owners about the presence of guests or intruders. There is also a gentle side to their natures, which makes it generally safe for them to be around children. One unique characteristic of these dogs is their skill in climbing heights. Much like cats, these dogs can frequently be found sleeping or sitting on walls and other high places. They are nimble climbers, unlike most other dogs.