Mudhol Hound
Also known as Caravan Hound · Pashmi Hound (Feathered Variety)
India, Sighthounds and lurchers
- Size
- Large
- Height
- 56–72 cm
- Weight
- 20–28 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Swift
- Alert
- Loyal
- Reserved
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Mudhol Hound is a tall, lean Indian sighthound from the Deccan Plateau, named after the town of Mudhol in Karnataka. It is usually smooth-coated; a variety with feathering on the ears, tail and underside is called the Pashmi. It is one of India's best-known native breeds but is rarely seen abroad.
Size
- Size
- Large
- Height at shoulder
- 56–72 cm
- Adult weight
- 20–28 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
12–14 years
Most Mudhol Hounds live 12–14 years. Like other large dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 7, 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
Mudhol Hounds are alert, reserved with strangers and loyal to their own family. Like most sighthounds they have a very strong chase instinct and can be independent.
- Swift
- Alert
- Loyal
- Reserved
Food
For a typical 24 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,210 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 960 ml–1.4 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- 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 dayThey need daily walks plus regular chances to gallop in a safe, enclosed area. Recall can fail once something starts to run.
Grooming & shedding
The short coat needs only an occasional brush. Feathered Pashmi dogs need a little more attention.
Health
With thin skin and little body fat, they feel the cold and may need a coat in cooler countries. Keep small pets in mind, because the prey drive is strong. Few dogs live outside India, so breed health data are limited.
The breed can be prone to
- No well-documented breed-specific health problems
- Sensitivity to cold and to some anaesthetics, as in many lean sighthounds
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary examination before breeding
Not every Mudhol Hound is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Local Bedar hunters used these hounds long before the ruler of Mudhol State, Malojirao Ghorpade, revived the breed through selective breeding in the early twentieth century. He presented a pair to King George V. The breed appeared on an Indian postage stamp in 2005, and the Indian Army has trialled it for security work.
- Country of origin
- India
- Type
- Sighthounds and lurchers
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Kennel Club of India (as the Caravan Hound) and the Indian National Kennel Club; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Mudhol Hound right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
- You need a dog you can easily lift or carry
Cost to keep
Higher than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 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.
Mudhol Hound FAQ
How big does a Mudhol Hound get?
Adult Mudhol Hounds typically stand about 56–72 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 20–28 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Mudhol Hounds live?
Typically 12–14 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 Mudhol Hound 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 Mudhol Hound need?
An occasional brush is plenty. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Mudhol Hounds easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Mudhol Hounds shed?
A little. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Mudhol Hounds 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 Mudhol Hound live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Mudhol Hounds have?
The breed can be prone to no well-documented breed-specific health problems, sensitivity to cold and to some anaesthetics, as in many lean sighthounds. Not every Mudhol Hound 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.