Kanni
Also known as Maiden'S Beastmaster
India, Sighthounds and lurchers
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 64–74 cm
- Weight
- 16–22 kg
- Life expectancy
- 14–16 yrs
- Loyal
- Swift
- Reserved
- Graceful
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Kanni is a lean, rare sighthound from southern Tamil Nadu, traditionally used to course hare. It is tall and light, with a deep chest, tucked-up waist and short coat; the name usually refers to black-and-tan and similar colours. Its close relative, the solid-coloured Chippiparai, is registered separately in India.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 64–74 cm
- Adult weight
- 16–22 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
14–16 years
Most Kannis live 14–16 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Kannis are often shy with strangers but very loyal to their own family and will defend the home. They are generally easy to train, though they think for themselves when hunting.
- Loyal
- Swift
- Reserved
- Graceful
Food
For a typical 19 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,020 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 760 ml–1.1 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayIt needs regular chances to sprint in a safe, enclosed area, plus daily walks. It does best with space and is not well suited to city life.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat is very easy to care for; a weekly wipe or brush is plenty.
Health
Its chase instinct is strong, so off-lead running should only happen where it is secure. With very little body fat, it needs soft bedding and may feel the cold in cooler climates. It is rare outside India and little health research exists.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
Not every Kanni is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
The Kanni comes from villages in the Tirunelveli, Thoothukudi and Virudhunagar districts of Tamil Nadu, where it was kept for coursing hare. Black-and-tan dogs were traditionally given as wedding gifts to brides as guardians, which led to the breed's name. The Kennel Club of India later registered the black-and-tan dogs as Kanni and solid-coloured ones as Chippiparai.
- Country of origin
- India
- Type
- Sighthounds and lurchers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Kennel Club of India; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Kanni right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
- Owners ready for a long commitment — often well into their teens
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 14–16 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Kanni FAQ
How big does a Kanni get?
Adult Kannis typically stand about 64–74 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 16–22 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Kannis live?
Typically 14–16 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Kanni need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Kanni need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Kannis easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Kannis shed?
Very little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Kannis good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Kanni live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Kannis have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published. Not every Kanni is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.