In the market for a furry friend? You might want to consider a Kombai Dog. This ancient and rare unique breed of dog is native to the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and gets its name from the villages of Cumbam-Uthamapalayam, where it is thought to have originated. The Kombai is a large, muscular dog with a short, coarse coat. The breed is known for its hunting ability and is often used for boar and deer hunting in India.
In India, Kombai is one of the ancient dog breeds that exist today. Several statues celebrate the Kombai war dogs in Tamil Nadu’s ancient temples. If you plan on owning this pet, you’ve come to the right place. We have mentioned all the relevant information to help you make an informed decision. So, let’s get started.
What’s the Cost of a Kombai Dog in India?
Typically, you’ll have to pay between INR 5000 to 9,000 for a Kombai. But, this depends upon various factors you’ll learn in upcoming parts of this article. To get an idea about the price of Kombai Dog in different states of India, have a look at the table mentioned below:
Factors Responsible For the Purchase Price of Kombai Dog
Age of Kombai Dog: Purchasing “Pup” Vs “Adult”
Puppies are more expensive to buy than adult dogs for several reasons. Puppies are simply adorable, and people are willing to pay a premium for that cuteness factor!
However, they require more care and attention than adult dogs. They need to be fed more often, and their immune systems are not as developed, making them more susceptible to disease.
Additionally, puppies have not yet been trained, so it becomes an advantage for you to teach them according to your standards. Whereas, Adult dogs have already been through the initial stages of growth and development.
However, most adult dogs in your house will likely have gone through a neglected past. So, they may take time to get along with you and show behavioural issues. But, with true love and affection, they will be better again!
To Adopt or Buy?
For one, adoption is usually cheaper than buying a dog. Millions of dogs in shelters across the country are waiting for homes, and many of them will be euthanized if they aren’t adopted. So, you can also feel good about giving a home to a needy dog.
When you factor in the cost of vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and other initial medical care, adopting a dog from a shelter is usually cheaper than purchasing one from a breeder, as many of these dogs have already gone through all these processes.
Adopted dogs are often already house-trained and used to being around people. However, it’s not always the same case; some dogs also have a neglected past that makes them show behavioural issues.
Breeder Factor
Obtaining a pup from a licensed breeder ensures its excellent health. If you buy a poorly bred dog, chances are very likely that you may end up with big vet bills, and your dog can lead to serious health problems, and, in the worst case scenario, they may lose their life too.
Here are some places where you can expect to get a Kombai Dog.
Buying a Kombai Dog From Puppy Mill ( Never Go For This Option)
When people hear the term “puppy mill,” they might think of a cute, idyllic farm where puppies frolic and play. But the reality is that puppy mills are large-scale commercial dog breeding facilities that place profit above the welfare of their dogs. Puppy mills often keep dogs in crowded, unsanitary conditions without adequate food, water or veterinary care.
Although buying a puppy from a mill may seem like a great deal because of the low purchasing cost. But these are one of the gimmicks puppy mill owners pull to lure you into buying from them.
Puppies from mills often have genetic defects and have a higher risk of developing health problems later in life. They also may have behaviour issues due to the poor conditions they were raised in.
Many puppy mill dogs are bred for specific physical features desired by some buyers, such as small size or unusual fur colour. This can lead to health problems down the line for these dogs.
Buying a Kombai Dog from Pet Shops
Pet stores have been getting a bad rap lately, and rightfully so. Many people need to realize that only some pet stores are created equal. Some pet stores are run by people who care about their animals and want to provide them with the best care. Other pet stores, however, are nothing more than puppy mills in disguise.
Although, the price difference is nothing less than a puppy mill. Doing your research first is always advisable if you’re opting for this option. Look for reviews online or ask any of your relatives or friends who have bought from a pet store. Your best bet can be your town’s veterinarian, as they get to meet many pet owners daily.
Buying a Kombai Dog from a Broker
A broker’s job is to help you find the right dog for your family. They will work with you to understand what you are looking for in a dog and then help you find a breeder that has the perfect match for you. They will also help you negotiate the dog’s price and ensure that all paperwork is in order.
Their services come with a price; you can expect to give about 10-20% commission on the total cost of the dog. It is also necessary to find the right broker, as many practices illegally and will try to scam you.
Buying from Reputable Breeders
Here are some tips on how to know if the breeder you are buying from is good:
1. Make sure the breeding facility is clean and well-maintained. A good breeder will take pride in their facilities and keep them clean and comfortable for their dogs.
2. Ask about the health testing done on the puppies’ parents. A good breeder will have their dogs’ health clearances before breeding them.
3. Get references from people who have purchased puppies from the same breeder. A good breeder will have people who are happy with their dogs and willing to share their experiences.
4. A good breeder can tell you a lot about the breed’s history and what makes them unique. You should be able to discuss the breed’s history, temperament and health risks openly.
5. A good breeder will offer you a written contract guaranteeing the puppy’s health and giving you certain rights in case there are any problems with the dog or if you need to re-home it.
With such excellent facilities comes a great price! It is why buying from them can make your wallet light. However, many illegal breeders are operating in India, So it is advisable to research the particular breeder you’re visiting.
Gender
Male dogs cost more than female dogs. Male dogs typically weigh more than female dogs, and this is due to their larger size and muscular build. They’re more desirable for pet owners who want a guard dog.
But, female dogs generally come with a soft deposition making them suitable for the family with kids and senior citizens.
Size
The standard weight of a Kombai Dog ranges from 15-24 Kilograms, whereas they can grow as long as 17-25 inches. The price will depend upon how large the Kombai Dog is.
Purebred and Mixbreed
Purebred dogs come from only one breeding pair. They are more expensive than mixed-breed dogs because purebred dogs often have more specific genetic characteristics that make them better suited for particular tasks or roles. They can turn out to be more healthy with no genetic problems in the long run.
Mix Breed dogs, however, can be made up of different breeds, so they’re not as specialized. And chances are they may develop genetic defects in the long run.
Bloodline
A dog’s lineage is important to know before purchasing because it can affect how much the dog will cost. A dog’s pedigree can tell much about its ancestry and genetic background.
This information can impact your price for the dog and its potential health and behavioural traits. For example, if the dog comes from a good background and is Purebred, it is likely to cost more.
Some dogs may also have unique characteristics or traits that make them more expensive, such as being able to jump high or being good at tracking.
Kombai Dog Markings and Coat Colours
Most Kombai dogs are tan, red, or brown. Most Kombai have darker colours on the back and sides than on the chest and beneath the belly.
Almost all members of this dog breed have black marks on their noses, and their ears also have black marks. Likewise, some have a white underbelly, legs, and chest marks. The price depends upon how rare the coat colour and markings are, and the rarer the coat, the higher the price.
Location
Location is key when looking to buy a dog from a breeder. The cost of purchasing a dog can vary depending on your site. In some cases, the price of a dog will be higher in more populated areas due to the high demand and competition among breeders. On the other hand, rural areas may have lower prices because fewer people are looking for dogs, and there is less competition.
Another factor affecting the price is buying a dog from a distant location, and buying from there adds extra expenses such as travelling and shipping.
Certificates
Some certification organizations may require an extensive application, including a vet check and DNA test. This leaves individual municipalities or counties responsible for regulating dog ownership and ensuring that all dogs within their jurisdiction are licensed and vaccinated accordingly.
This process may take some time as well as money. Breeders who sell their puppies with such certificates put a high price on that. It is also advisable to research the breeder before buying puppies from them. Most of the time, they will show bogus certificates to justify their high selling price.
Yearly Keeping or Maintenance Cost of owning a Kombai Dog
Owning a Kombai Dog can be a lot of fun, but it also requires regular maintenance for them to strive.
Here are the costs associated with owning a Kombai Dog for over a year:
Dog Food Factor
The Kombai dog is an indigenous breed and does well off homemade dog food. They have eaten everything once available, and their digestive systems are accustomed to processing homemade food.
“Homemade” Food vs “Purchased Food”
Puppies and dogs of all ages thrive on a diet containing lean protein and complex carbohydrates. While there is no right or wrong answer regarding what kind of food to feed your dog, in the case of Kombai Dogs, homemade food is generally considered the go-to option.
Opt for purchasing food to avoid the hassle and go the easy way. But If you’re feeding your dog commercially prepared food, make sure it’s made with high-quality ingredients and is balanced for all life stages.
Some commercial food comes with artificial additives and flavours, which can harm your dog’s health. Whatever option you choose, please consult your veterinarian first and do as they advise.
Depending upon the brand and ingredients, these commercial foods can cost you anywhere around INR 6500-9500. You can also give your Kombai dog a mixture of homemade and commercial food to make it more economical. You can quickly bring the total monthly cost to INR 3000-4000.
Kombai Dog Feeding Frequency and Portion Size
To have a basic idea about their feeding schedule, look at the table mentioned below:
The information in this table gives you a general idea; consult your pet’s vet for a more detailed feeding schedule.
| Age | Times a day | Amount of Food |
|---|---|---|
| 3 months to 12 months | 4 servings | 100 grams of rice with 1 boiled egg along with other calcium and supplements suggested by the vet.. |
| 18 months to 5 years | 3 servings | 150 grams of boiled chicken or 150 grams of rice with 1 boiled egg along with calcium and other supplements as suggested by the vet. |
| 9 years to 13 years | 3 servings | 150 gram of boiled chicken or 150 grams of rice with 1 boiled egg or 7-8 pieces of indian bread |
Vet Factor
A dog’s health is essential to its owner, just as it is to a veterinarian. Veterinarians play an integral role in keeping dogs healthy by providing vaccinations and diagnosing and treating illnesses and injuries.
Understanding what your dog needs and when they need it can help keep them healthy for years.
Here are some costs associated with the healthcare of your dog that you should be aware of:
Vaccinations
Puppies, like human babies, are not born with natural immunity to fight some common diseases. As a result, vaccinating them at an early age is essential. Generally, your puppy will receive its first vaccine dose at 6-8 weeks. After that, a booster shot every three weeks is recommended until you turn 16 weeks of age. Then, they may require vaccination shots annually.
To have a general idea about the vaccination schedule, have a look at the table mentioned below:
| Age | Vaccine |
|---|---|
| 6-7 Weeks | DHPP, Bordetella, |
| 9-10 Weeks | DHPP, Bordetella, Leptospirosis |
| 12-13 Weeks | DHPP, Leptospirosis, Canine Influenza, Lyme Disease |
| 15-17 Weeks | DHPP, Rabies, Canine Influenza, Lyme Disease |
| 12 - 16 months | Rabies, DHPP |
| Every 1 - 2 years | DHPP |
| Every 1 - 3 years | Rabies (as required by law) |
This table gives you a basic idea about the vaccinations your Kombai Dog may need; however, your dog may need different healthcare needs. So, it is essential to consult your vet before registering them on any vaccination schedule.
Spaying and Neutering Cost
Spaying and neutering are surgical procedures commonly used to prevent dogs from becoming pregnant. The surgeries remove the ovaries and testes, respectively, and often decrease blood testosterone levels.
This can significantly reduce the chance of your pet becoming aggressive or reproducing early. Additionally, spayed females tend not to get mammary cancer, and neutered males tend not to get prostate cancer.
In India, depending on your location, you can expect your vet to charge you around INR 4000 to 15000 for these surgeries.
Deworming Cost
Deworming is the process of removing parasitic worms from a dog’s body. It is necessary because parasites can cause health problems for dogs, including coughing, difficulty breathing, diarrhoea, and vomiting.
Deworming is typically done as part of a routine care regimen, but it can also be prescribed by a veterinarian if your dog has specific health concerns. Generally, your vet will prescribe tablets and syrups that cost around INR 100-200.
Preventive Medications Cost
Preventive medications help keep your dog healthy without needing surgery or medicine in an emergency. You can use preventive medications to prevent diseases, injuries and malformations.
Some of the dogs’ most common preventive medications include-
Ear Infection Prevention: Ear drops are the standard medication used to treat ear infections in dogs and would generally cost you around INR 150-250.
Flea and Ticks Prevention: Flea and tick powder is a product that kills fleas and ticks on dogs. You can expect to spend anywhere between INR 200-350.
First Aid Kit: This kit includes general first aid items like Antibiotic ointments, gauze, scissors, tape, and gloves which helps to treat minor injuries at home. Depending on your frequency, it can cost anywhere between INR 300-500.
Always consult your veterinarian before starting a new preventive regimen or changing an old one.
Housing and Confinement Cost
Dogs are domesticated animals that humans have kept for centuries. While they are known to be loyal companions, dogs can also be aggressive when unsupervised.
This is why confinement is necessary for dogs; if they are not confined, they may become territorial or attack other animals or people. In addition to providing a secure environment, confining a dog helps to keep them from injuring themselves or others.
The best place for a dog will depend on its size, breed, personality and activity level. The most common methods of confinement are crates and dog beds.
Crates are most commonly used for puppies and are preferred due to their easy mobility. In India, you can expect a good quality crate to cost anywhere near INR 1,000-2500.
If you want your dog to have more open space, consider buying dog beds once they grow large. It would generally cost you around INR 500-1,500.
Accessories Cost
Training Harness
Training harnesses are necessary for dogs because they offer a way to control their body and head while engaging in obedience training. Without a harness, a dog’s neck may become tense and strained from trying to pull against the leash. A properly fitted harness allows trainers to restrain the dog during force-free exercises like recalls or come-when-called tasks.
These training harnesses can typically cost you around INR 1000-2000.
Toy Cost
Dogs need toys to keep them entertained and mentally stimulated. Toys can also help to reduce boredom and encourage exercise. You can easily find toys at most convenience stores or pet stores. Some popular dog toys include kong, balls, chew, and ropes. Toy prices typically range from INR 100-1,200.
Grooming Cost
Kombai dogs are low-maintenance, domesticated dogs that you can groom at home with regular medicated baths. Their fur does not shed much because it is thick and possesses a single coat. Although, if you’re caught up in work or need to learn to groom them at home, you can hire professional services. These services would cost you anywhere around INR 500-2000 a session.
If you decide to do it yourself, you can buy a home grooming kit that includes all the essentials like towels, nail clippers, brushes etc. Generally, this kit would cost around INR 2,000-3,000.
Walker Cost
One of the many things that homeowners enjoy is having their furry friend by their side. However, due to work or other commitments, there are times when they can’t take their dog for a walk. In these cases, hiring a dog walker can come in very handy.
Dog walkers provide regular exercise, which benefits the dog’s physical health and mental well-being. Furthermore, dog walking services can be affordable, depending on the length of time and number of walks that need to be conducted. It can cost around INR 200-500 a session or INR 2000-4000 monthly.
Training and Socialising
Proper training and socialization help the dog be obedient and behave around people and other animals. Although you can do this at home, it is better to hire professional services if you need to possess the skill and time for this activity.
The cost of providing such care can vary depending on the size and activity level of the dog, but on average, it will cost between INR 4,000-8,000 per month.
Treat Cost
Treats provide rewards and motivation for good behaviour and help keep them healthy. Choose high-quality treats that are healthy for your dog and contain the necessary nutrients.
Depending upon the brand and its nutritional value, a good quality treat can range from INR 200-300.
Insurance Cost
Dogs are man’s best friends, and as such, they deserve the best of everything. This includes having the best health care possible and covering any unforeseen expenses that may come up while they’re with their owner. One way to do this is through dog insurance.
There are a few different policies, but they all cover accidents, sicknesses, vet bills, third-party liabilities and even cremation costs if your dog dies. These policies will vary depending on the company you choose to insure your pet, but on average, they can cost anywhere from INR 5000-15,000 yearly.
It is essential to speak with a pet insurance specialist to discuss what type of coverage is right for you and your dog.
Travel Cost
Many domestic airlines allow dogs to travel in cargo holds and on some flights as part of regular passenger seating. So, it is essential to research before you book a ticket. It would help if you also carried dogs in a crate or kennel large enough for them to move around. Additionally, airlines will ask for health certificates and proof of vaccination.
So, make sure you have all those documents. Depending upon the location, airlines can charge anywhere around INR 20,000 if you’re travelling domestically, and for international travels, you can expect this cost to reach INR 2 lakhs to 3 lakhs.
Daycare Cost
Dog daycare services offer an alternative for dog owners who need to work or are away from their pets for extended periods. Daycare centres provide supervised playtime, feeding, and watering for dogs of all ages and breeds. Many centres also offer a variety of training programs to help your dog become more obedient and well-behaved.
Depending upon the location and type of program, these services can cost you around INR 200-500 a day.
Registration Cost
Registration of a dog assures you that the dog is properly licensed and vaccinated and alerts law enforcement in case of theft or escape.
You can get your dog to register in any local animal welfare governing body or Indian Kennel Club. Depending upon the location, you can expect this to cost INR 400-1000.
Miscellaneous
Some other essential things you might need to raise your dog: are a poop bag, food and water bowls, food storage containers, and a pee cleaner. Make sure you have plenty of these items before bringing your new furry friend home.
Hidden and Related Costs of Kombai Dog Ownership
Dogs rely on humans for their food, companionship, and protection. Dogs require socialization to develop healthy habits and avoid bad habits such as chewing on furniture or jumping up on people.
If you don’t dedicate your time to your dogs, they may become bored or destructive, negatively impacting their overall health and well-being. So, if you’re bringing a dog to your home, prepare to give them adequate time so they don’t develop separation anxiety.
Essential Things to Consider Before Buying Kombai Dog
Kombai Dogs come from south India, which means they’re biologically suited to live in areas with tropical climates.
Kombai is a breed that’s naturally healthy and independent. It requires less grooming and veterinary care than most canines do.
They can easily live up to 9-13 years.
The Kombai is a working dog, but it is a fierce and courageous dog that has also been utilized in dog fighting.
Kombai dogs come into the aloof and reserved category of dogs and often won’t welcome strangers, but they get along well with kids.
Kombai dogs are typically territorial and do not appreciate other dogs in their area, but they are friendly to other pets.
Summing it Up
In conclusion, keeping a kombai dog is a commitment, but it’s also very rewarding. These dogs will provide years of loyal companionship with regular care and attention. If you’re thinking of adding one to your family, read up on the necessary care and supplies to keep them healthy and happy. Finally, remember to brush your teeth!