Canaan Dog

Breed Type: Herding
Common nicknames: Canaan
Coat: Smooth, double
Hypoallergenic: No, they will likely trigger allergies.
Temperament: Devoted, loyal, energetic, independent
Life expectancy: 12-15 years
Color & patterns: White
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The Canaan Dog is an excellent choice for those seeking a loyal, intelligent, and adaptable pup. With their medium-sized build, these dogs are known for their intelligence and quick learning abilities, making them highly trainable with consistent and positive reinforcement. They are natural protectors, forming strong bonds with their families and being alert to their surroundings. If you’re looking for a devoted and versatile pup, the Canaan Dog will stand by your side.

Canaan Dog characteristics

Learn about about Canaan Dog basics like their fur colors, shedding levels, how much grooming they need, and other Canaan Dog facts.

Average height

19-24 inches (48.3-61.0cm)

Average weight

36-64 pounds (16.3-29.0 kg)

Average lifespan

12-15 years

Exercise needs
Low-key activityHigh-energy workouts
Grooming needs
OccasionallyFrequently
Full-grown size
Teeny tinySuper size
Good with cats
Likely to chaseHey, new pal!
Good with kids
Needs lots of supervisionReady to play
Training aptitude
HeadstrongEager to please
How long do Canaan Dogs live?

Canaan Dogs can live between 12 to 15 years, making them a relatively long-lived breed for their size. Their lifespan can be attributed to their natural development as a hardy, resilient breed that adapted to harsh desert conditions.

To help a Canaan Dog live a full, healthy life, regular exercise, enrichment, and companionship are key. They’re active dogs with a strong working background, so providing them with physical activity helps maintain their health and prevent obesity, which can shorten their lifespan. A well-balanced, nutritious diet also supports their overall health and longevity.

Regular veterinary care is crucial, too. Keeping up with routine check-ups, vaccinations, dental care, and screening for any potential issues can catch health problems early and help manage them before they become more serious.

How big do Canaan Dogs get?

Canaan Dogs are medium-sized, typically weighing between 36 to 64 pounds and standing 19 to 24 inches tall at the shoulder. Males tend to be on the larger end of this range, while females are usually a bit smaller. 

They have a lean, athletic build, which contributes to their agility and endurance. Their size makes them sturdy enough for various activities, but they’re still compact enough to live comfortably in a variety of environments as long as they get enough exercise.

When do Canaan Dogs stop growing?

Canaan Dogs typically stop growing in height by around 12 to 14 months of age, though they may continue to fill out and build muscle until they’re about 18 months to two years old. Like many medium-sized breeds, their growth in height ends around their year, but they may gain a bit more weight and muscle as they continue to mature.

What colors do Canaan Dogs come in?

Canaan Dogs come in a variety of coat colors, including black, cream, golden, liver, red, tan, and white. Many Canaan Dogs have white coats with large colored patches, particularly on the head and body. They can also have a mask of color on their face, which is common in the breed. Some may have ticking or spots as part of their coat pattern. Overall, their coats can range from solid to a mix of patterns, giving them a unique and diverse appearance.

Do Canaan Dogs shed?

Canaan Dogs are moderate shedders most of the year, and heavy shedders when they blow their undercoat seasonally. This seasonal shedding typically occurs in spring and fall, and more frequent brushing might be needed to manage the excess hair at those times.

Canaan Dogs have relatively low-maintenance grooming needs. Their double coat naturally repels dirt and requires only weekly brushing with a bristle brush or grooming mitt to remove loose hairs and keep it looking clean. Baths are only necessary occasionally, as their coat tends to stay fairly clean on its own. Ear checks, cleaning, and brushing their teeth a few times a week will help prevent dental and ear issues. Additionally, trimming their nails every few weeks is important to avoid overgrowth and discomfort.

Are Canaan Dogs good family dogs?

Yes, Canaan Dogs are good family dogs. They are incredibly devoted to their family and usually wary and aloof towards strangers, though typically not aggressive. The Canaan Dog does need a lot of exercise to be happy, though – they are not a couch potato type of pup, so active households are the best fit for this athletic breed.

Canaan Dog history

Learn about where this Canaan Dog came from!

Are Canaan Dogs rare?

Yes, Canaan Dogs are a rare breed. While they have ancient origins and have existed in the Middle East for thousands of years, their numbers are relatively low worldwide. They’re not commonly seen outside their native region, partly due to their unique history as a naturally occurring breed and the fact that they haven’t been widely bred for specific purposes like other more popular dog breeds. Their rarity makes them a distinctive breed, often appreciated by enthusiasts for their intelligence, loyalty, and adaptability.

Where are Canaan Dogs from?

Canaan Dogs come from the Middle East, specifically from the regions of Palestine and Lebanon. They are one of the oldest breeds, dating back at least 2,000 years, where they were used as herding dogs and guard dogs for nomadic people. This history helped them develop strong instincts and independence, making them smart and loyal companions today.

Canaan Dog temperament

Learn about about the Canaan Dog temperament and how well they fit into your lifestyle, home environment, and family.

Do Canaan Dogs bark a lot?

No, Canaan Dogs don’t often bark a lot and are known to be moderately vocal. They tend to bark when they want to alert their pet parents to something unusual or when they’re playing. Their natural guarding instincts may make them more inclined to bark at strangers or new noises, so early and thorough socialization is key to helping them feel comfortable and secure in the world around them, reducing the likelihood of barking from anxiety.

Providing daily enrichment, exercise, and companionship will also support their emotional and physical well-being and can prevent boredom or frustration-related barking.

Are Canaan Dogs easy to train?

Yes, Canaan Dogs can be easy to train with positive reinforcement and relationship-based training. They can be quite independent thinkers, so setting up rewarding training sessions that encourage problem-solving through games can keep them engaged with learning.

Are Canaan Dogs friendly?

Yes, Canaan Dogs can definitely be friendly, but their natural temperament leans more toward being reserved and cautious, especially around strangers. As a breed with strong guarding instincts, they are typically loyal and affectionate with their family but may take time to warm up to new people. Once they trust someone, Canaan Dogs can be very affectionate and friendly.

Early socialization is key to helping them develop more outgoing, friendly behavior. With proper training and exposure to different people, animals, and environments, they can become well-rounded dogs who are both protective and sociable.

Are Canaan Dogs good with kids?

Yes, most Canaan Dogs are good with kids. They are known for their friendly and protective nature, which makes them great companions for children. Their playful and energetic disposition means they often enjoy interactive play and activities with kids. 

However, as with any breed, it’s important to supervise interactions between dogs and young children to ensure that both the dog and the child are safe and comfortable. Teaching children how to properly interact with dogs and respecting their space can help foster a positive relationship. Overall, Canaan Dogs can be loving and loyal family members, making them a suitable choice for households with children.

Are Canaan Dogs good with cats?

Yes, Canaan Dogs can be good with cats, especially those they have been raised alongside, and they may even become protective of their feline friends. They are adaptable pups and can often coexist quite well with household kitties. 

Gradual introductions, supervised interactions, and providing separate spaces for both pets to relax can help foster a harmonious relationship. With positive reinforcement training and socialization, many Canaan Dogs can live happily alongside cats. 

Of course, individual personalities vary, so it’s important to assess the specific dog’s behavior around cats before committing to an adoption.

Canaan Dog health

Learn about about the Canaan Dog health outlook and what diseases they may be prone to at various stages of their life.

Do Canaan Dogs have a lot of health problems?

No, Canaan Dogs don’t have a lot of health problems and are overall a healthy breed. A balanced diet, exercise, enrichment, and a loving home environment can help ensure they stay happy and healthy.

What diseases are Canaan Dogs prone to?

While they are a healthy breed, Canaan Dogs may still be prone to developing certain health conditions, including:

  • Hip dysplasia: This is a genetic condition in which the hip joint doesn’t fit properly into the hip socket, leading to wear and tear over time. It can cause pain, inflammation, and arthritis, eventually limiting mobility. Symptoms include stiffness, limping, or reluctance to move. Early detection through X-rays and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage the condition.

  • Elbow dysplasia: Elbow dysplasia occurs when the bones of the elbow joint don’t align correctly, causing abnormal wear and potentially leading to arthritis. This can result in pain, lameness, or reluctance to use the affected leg. Treatment may involve weight management, physical therapy, or surgery in severe cases.

  • Hypothyroidism: Hypothyroidism occurs when the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones, leading to symptoms like unexplained weight gain, lethargy, hair loss, and skin problems. It’s typically managed with daily thyroid hormone supplements and regular blood tests to monitor hormone levels.

  • Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA): PRA is a degenerative eye disorder that leads to the gradual loss of vision and eventually blindness. It starts with night blindness and progresses to daytime vision loss. While there is no cure, dogs with PRA can often adapt well to blindness, and responsible breeding practices can reduce the risk.

  • Epilepsy: Epilepsy is a neurological disorder that causes seizures ranging from mild to severe. Seizures can be caused by genetics, head trauma, or underlying health conditions. While there’s no cure, anti-seizure medications can help control the frequency and intensity of seizures, allowing the dog to lead a mostly normal life.

  • Patellar luxation: This occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of its normal position, causing discomfort and difficulty walking. It can vary in severity, from occasional slipping to chronic dislocation. Mild cases may be managed with physical therapy, while more severe cases might require surgery to prevent long-term damage.

Keeping Canaan Dogs healthy with proper diet, exercise, and regular veterinary check-ups can help reduce the risk of these conditions.

Popular Canaan Dog mixes

Canaan Dogs can be mixed with a variety of breeds, resulting in unique combinations of traits. Here are some examples of breeds that mix well with Canaan Dogs:

  • Canaan Shepherd (Canaan Dog + German Shepherd)

  • Canaan Collie (Canaan Dog + Border Collie)

  • Canador (Canaan Dog + Labrador Retriever)

  • Canaan Cattle Dog (Canaan Dog + Australian Cattle Dog)

  • Canusky (Canaan Dog + Husky)

  • Candoodle (Canaan Dog + Poodle)

Canaan Dog Mixes picture

Find Canaan Dog puppies near you

Adopting a Canaan Dog

We don't see any Canaan Dogs available for adoption in your exact location or cities near you, but here are some adorable similar breeds in Columbus, OH.

Photo of Jasper

Jasper

Basenji Carolina Dog

Male, 7 yrs 5 mos

New Albany, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn - with White
Size
(when grown) Med. 26-60 lbs (12-27 kg)
Details
Good with dogs
House-trained
Spayed or Neutered
Shots are up-to-date
Story
Name: Jasper Gender: Male Age: 6 Current Weight: 60 Expected Adult Size: Large (50-100 lbs) Breed: Shepherd mix Energy Level: Low-Medium Dog Friendly: Yes outside the home, but prefers to be only dog in their home. Cat Friendly: No Kid Friendly: No Apartment Friendly: No Physical Fence Requirement: Physical fence preferred but not required with regular walks/exercise Crate Trained: Yes Potty Trained: Yes Ideal Home/Adopter: asper thrives in an environment where he can be the center of attention, without having to share the spotlight with other pets at home. Quiet evenings, gentle walks, and the companionship of a loyal friend are what are guy is looking for. Likes: Jasper loves the attention from humans , he’d rather be snuggled up with you on the couch than playing . He loves being around other dogs in day care setting but at home he’d rather be an only pup . He loves all the snacks as well Dislikes: Jasper is pretty easy-going; there’s not much he doesn’t like, What makes this dog special: Jasper is a sweet loving boy! He has a goofy personality & just wants to spend his evenings being a couch potato with you. Although he loves going on walks and adventuring. His ears are the cherry on top - expressive, unique, and utterly adorable! Jasper's adoption fee is $350. All fees include spay/neuter, microchip, vaccinations, worming, flea and heartworm current. All dogs over 6 months of age have been tested and are heartworm negative. If you are interested in Jasper, apply at rescuedohio.org to become an approved adopter and a meet & greet can be set up once approved. ##194704##
Photo of Benji (Squirt)

Benji (Squirt)

Basenji Chihuahua

Male, 4 yrs 11 mos

Lewis Center, OH

Color
Tan/Yellow/Fawn
Size
(when grown) Small 25 lbs (11 kg) or less
Details
Spayed or Neutered
Story
Remember little Squirt? He found himself on the naughty list for poor behavior. He thought if he would bite, spit and spin the shelter would open the door and set him free. That turned out to be a bad plan One of our experienced dog fosters immediately drove to the shelter and brought him home! She named him Benji to start his new life. Benji spent some time pouting, but finally caved when he realized life was better on a lap. Benji is good with other dogs, has worked on his social skills with strangers, has learned to walk on a leash, is house broken, plays with toys and alerts to strangers!Benji is ready for his forever home with a loving family who will be understanding of his tarnished past.He is 12 pounds and approximately 4 yrs old.You can apply to meet Beni at ricopetrecovery.org! Adoption fee is $250