In recent times, the Mudhol hounds have become popular owing to their recruiting in the Indian Armed Forces, the paramilitary Central Reserve Police Force, and the National Security Guard (NSG). However, what’s not widely known about this breed is that the Mudhol hounds are a critically endangered species facing extinction.
In the glory days, the Mudhol hounds were companions of the Maratha warriors, hunted with the fearless Bedar tribespeople, and were loyal friends of the aristocrats. This breed is believed to be originated and been bred in Mudhol by Raja Malojirao Ghorpade of the erstwhile Deccan kingdom. The Raja wanted an agile hunter-dog and developed the traits by selectively breeding over generations.
Bringing this dog home will contribute to saving this dog breed from extinction. To better understand all the related factors of owning this dog, read on as we unfurl each aspect in detail. We’ve covered everything from the financial costs of owning this to the maintenance and upkeep.
How Much Does The Mudhol Cost in India?
In the native place of the Mudhol breed, the Mudhol Taluk breeders sell the puppies for anywhere between INR 8,000-15,000. The Canine Research and Information Center (CRIC) is India’s official breeding facility for the Mudhol hounds. They sell their litter in two seasons: April, May, November, and December. The typical asking price for males at this center is INR 10,000, while the dam sells for INR 9,000.
Factors that Influence the Buying Price of Mudhol in India
Mudhol Age: Buying a Puppy vs. an Old Dog
For Mudhol hounds to reach complete mental, physical and emotional maturity, it takes 16-18 months from birth. The 4-7 months is a period of exponential physical growth during this phase. In comparison, mental and emotional development takes place relatively slower to help the Mudhols adjust to their environment correctly. Therefore, bringing an eight-week-old puppy home requires you to be extra vigilant with nearly every aspect of the dog’s development.
Mudhol hounds aged six to eight weeks are priced the highest. Generally, the asking price drops with the dog’s increasing age. Deciding between a puppy or an older dog comes down to preferences and your expectations from the dog. The charm of puppyhood generally fades with the increasing demands of Mudhol puppies. They can be cheeky and quite a handful; therefore, analyzing your limits before going for a Muhdol puppy is essential.
An older dog is generally more settled but can come with good and bad traits. Therefore, if you’re buying an older dog, inquire about the dog’s previous training regimes.
Adopting a Mudhol vs. Buying
Due to the breed’s rarity, finding the Mudhol hound in a shelter may seem endless and exhausting. However, if you do locate one in a top-notch rescue group, you’re likely to get a dog that has been screened for health issues and behavior problems. In addition, the shelter dogs are usually older, with the first-year expenses of the dog already taken care of.
This is an exceptional circumstance where buying the Mudhol dog breed also saves the species from extinction. Since the widespread popularity of the exotic breeds coupled with the constant neglect of Indian towards indigenous dog breeds, the Mudhol hound’s existence is critically endangered. In this status, buying the dog from a breeder may encourage the breeders who are trying to save this breed. That said, dealing with an ethical breeder is the only way to happy ownership of the Mudhol hound.
Breeder Factor
Indian breeders are required to register with their respective state’s Animal Welfare Board and the Indian Kennel Club. These steps are measures to ensure the ethical breeding of dogs. Therefore, when dealing with a breeder, it is crucial to do a thorough background check of the breeder and all the claims he makes. There are several places you can source your Mudhol hound from in India; we’re sharing our two cents on the popular choices below.
Buying a Mudhol from Puppy Mills (Please don’t go with this option)
The reality of puppy mills is widely known today, but the unscrupulous owners are pretty clever. They devise proficient ways to sell their dogs to keep the profitable business of unethically breeding dogs running. From offering their dogs at unreasonably low prices to using spellbinding sales pitches, the mill merchants stop at anything to make a sale. The only way to ensure you’re not working with a mill merchant is to do your homework and ask questions. Always ask to see the breeding facility and the dog’s parents before finalizing the deal.
Buying a Mudhol from Pet Shops
Pet shops give a luxury buying experience to potential pet parents. However, this experience has its foundation in the unethical practices of puppy mills. Most pet owners source their dogs from puppy mills to stay on top of the demand year-round. Visiting a pet shop at any time of the year and having the puppies of all popular dog breeds available or in transit perpetually is a big sign that the owner is dealing with puppy mills. We recommend our readers not to be swayed by the charm of perfectly groomed dogs with their roots connected to puppy mills. Most pet stores claim that their litter is ethically sourced and charge a premium for their dogs; however, they are no reliable ways in which you can verify this claim.
Buying a Mudhol from Middleman or Brokers
Dog brokers and Middlemen drive most sales in the pet industry and charge a 10-20% commission on each sale that goes through. A good broker may connect you to ethical breeders, allowing you to visit the facility firsthand. They also offer several options and can perform the verification of documents for you. Although this is a relatively expensive option, when dealing with a dog broker, you can bring the dog home in a short period. However, it is important to note that scams in the industry are not out of the ordinary; therefore, only dealing with an ethical dog broker is recommended.
Buying a Mudhol from Reputable breeders
Reputable breeders have gained popularity through consistent hard work and effective results. These breeders produce top-quality litters and show-winner dogs consistently. To do this, they employ the finest breeding techniques, with the dogs a priority.
An ethical breeder wants a permanent home for their dogs, and to determine whether you’re the right owner for the breed, they ask you several questions. This is one of the hallmarks of a breeder who practices ethically and loves their dogs. Due to the top-quality breeding practice, reputable breeders charge considerably more. However, we recommend dealing with a reputable breeder to ensure a good ownership experience and bring a healthy Mudhol hound home.
Questions to ask from a Breeder
A few questions can help you determine whether you’re dealing with an ethical breeder; we’ve prepared this list to help you with this goal.
- Can I see your breeding permit?
- What dog breeds are your specialty?
- Is the breed right for me?
- Can I meet the mother and the littermates of the pup?
- What do the puppies feed?
- What important things should I know about the Mudhol hounds before owning them?
- What vaccinations have been administered to the puppy?
- What are some of the cons of the breed?
- Can I return the puppy if I change my mind?
- How can I contact you if I face any problems with the dog?
Fun Fact: Rumor has it that the Mudhol hound is soon to be recruited into the Special Protection Group (SPG) by the Indian government to serve as a protector for PM Narendra Modi.
Gender
The females of the breed sell for a thousand less than the male breed. Choosing which dog to bring home is a personal preference as there is little difference between the temperant and physical features of the male and female Mudhol hound.
Size
The Mudhol hound is a medium-sized tall breed. Males of species are slightly taller than the females, standing at 26-28 inches at maturity. In contrast, the females are 24-26 inches tall at maturity. The ideal weight for an adult male Mudhol hound is 24-30 kg, while for females, the average weight is 22-26 kg at maturity. If the puppy’s parents fail to meet the above standards, it may sell for much less.
Mix Breed or Purebred
Typically, mixed breeds are cheaper than the purebred variants of the breed. Since the Mudhol hound is critically endangered, a purebred Mudhol is always priced higher than a mutt. Another reason for this could be the low popularity of Mudhol among breeders.
Bloodline
Stud dogs and show ring winners and their descendants are priced higher. This is due to their potential to become show-quality dogs. Pet parents willing to show their dogs should plan their budgets accordingly, as these dogs sell for several thousand more than an average Mudhol dog.
Coat Colors and Markings
The hounds of Mudhol come in two coat varieties; the Mudhol hounds have a single short coat and the Pashmi hounds have a feathery coat that is smooth and silky to the touch. Both types shed minimally and are easy to maintain.
This breed comes in various solid colors: white, cream, brindle, fawn, golden, and tan. The standard markings for this breed are white and colored. Out of these, the brindle Mudhol hound is considered desirable and may sell for more.
Certification and Warranties
KCI-certified dogs are usually priced more, as this may be an indicator of ethical breeding. Well-vaccinated dogs are less likely to contract any significant diseases and therefore are desirable for potential buyers. We recommend being thorough in your inspection and verification of documents because, in India, there’s easy funding.
Fun Fact: The Mudhol hound has an expansive terminology, with the most famous names of the breed being Caravan Hound, Kathewar dog, Maratha Hound, and Pashmi Hound.
Yearly Maintenance Cost of Owning a Mudhol
This slender hunting dog is perfect for the Indian climate, and despite the critically endangered nature of the breed, the hounds do not cost nearly as much as the exotic breeds. You can expect to spend INR 36,000-40,000 yearly on the maintenance of the Mudhol puppies. This section covers all the financial expenses you’re likely to incur during the ownership of a Mudhol hound.
Dog Food Factor
In their native place, the townspeople feed their Mudhol hounds a special bread made from sorghum grain, goat milk, and meat. This breed thrives on a meat-based diet as they need large protein to keep their glistening muscles healthy. A typical adult Mudhol hound with moderate activity levels requires 1,400-1,500 kcal daily. An active working Mudhol dog may need 1,700 kcal per day. Let’s discuss the best diet options and feeding frequency for your Mudhol dog.
Home Food vs. Purchased food
Typically, Mudhols thrive on a homemade food diet that consists of plenty of proteins, vitamins, carbohydrates, and minerals. Both a vet and the breeder you choose to buy your Mudhol from can best guide you on the kind of food this breed enjoys most. Conventionally, the Bedar tribes people feed the dogs Bhakhari (bread made from jawar and bajra), milk, half-cooked or raw meat, and cooked rice. The homemade diet tends to be cheaper but requires careful consideration of the quantity of food you’re supplying.
Commercial dog food is expensive but is prepared to keep the dog’s nutrient demands in mind. Most breeders provide a mixed diet composed of both homemade and store-bought food. You can expect to spend INR 2,500-4,000 monthly to feed your hound a high-quality, nutritious diet.
Some Mudhol owners are keen on “fattening up” their Mudhol hounds, as this breed looks emaciated and malnutrition. However, note that typically the hounds have a low body fat percentage, so fattening up may be unnecessary.
Portion Size and Daily Frequency
It’s crucial to structure your dog’s daily life by consistently feeding him at a fixed time. The Mudhol’s portion size and frequency vary based on the dog’s weight, age, and activity levels. However, feeding 3-4 times a day may be best for puppies to sustain them throughout the day. In comparison, the adult Mudhols can provide two smaller portions each day. Below are a few pointers to give you a general idea of the feeding frequency and portion size. Getting a customized diet plan drawn up by your vet may be the best way to a happy and healthy Mudhol.
| Age (Months) | Weight (kg) | Food Type | Portion Size | Meals/Day |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | 5.4 | Dry (Puppy Formula) | 0.3 Cups | 3 |
| 3 | 9 | Dry | 0.5 Cups | 3 |
| 6 | 13.6 | Dry | 0.7 Cups | 3 |
| 9 | 18.1 | Dry (Puppy/Adult) | 1.25 Cups | 2 |
| 12+ | 22.6 | Dry (Adult Formula) | 1.5 Cups | 2 |
Vet Factor
The popularity of the Mudhol breed can be primarily attributed to its disease-resistant nature, among other factors. This breed enjoys a long lifespan of 12-15 years. Several years of selective breeding have made this breed highly tolerant to most canine diseases, but due to the limited gene pool, this breed is predisposed to specific ailments. Some health concerns include seizures, bloat, hypothyroidism, Mange, and dental issues. To ensure the good health of your Mudhol dog, regular vet visits are essential. You can expect the annual medical expense of your Mudhol to be INR 6,000-10,000. These include vaccination, deworming, and other recurring health-related costs. Let’s run through the yearly medical expenses of the Mudhol.
Vaccination Cost
Leptospirosis, Canine Distemper, Canine Parvovirus, Rabies, and Hepatitis vaccines are all required legally. These vaccination treatments start as early as 4-6 weeks, as the younger dogs are more vulnerable to contracting diseases. We stress that acquiring the health-related documents of the pup from the breeder/shelter you get your dog from facilitates drawing up an apt schedule for vaccination for your Mudhol. Usually, a vet can walk you through the best vaccine for your dog. Each shot of the vaccine may cost INR 1,700-2,000. The table below gives a general idea of how to go about the vaccination procedure.
| Puppy Age | Core Vaccines | Non-Core Vaccines | Worms |
|---|---|---|---|
| 6-8 Weeks | Distemper | Bordetella, Parainfluenza, Measles | |
| 10-12 Weeks | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus | Coronavirus, Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease | Begin Heartworm prevention medication monthly or bi-monthly |
| 14-16 Weeks | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Rabies (required by law) | Parainfluenza, Coronavirus, Lyme disease, Leptospirosis | Begin/continue Heartworm prevention medication monthly or bi-monthly |
| Adult (renewed every 1-3 years) | Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Rabies | Parainfluenza, Coronavirus, Leptotspirosis, Bordetella, Lyme disease | Continue Heartworm prevention medication monthly or bi-monthly |
Neutering or Spaying Surgery Cost
Mudhol dogs are predisposed to aggression, and managing a Mudhol with hormones raging in their veins is no easy task. Breeding and managing unneutered/unspayed dogs require skills that a layman does not possess. Additionally, neutering/spaying your dog comes with a host of benefits. For this reason, pet parents are encouraged to get their dogs spayed or neutered.
As this procedure is purely surgical, it should only be performed by expert vets. In metro cities, you can expect to pay INR 6,000-12,000. While in the suburbs of India, the same surgery may be cheaper, costing INR 4,000-6,000.
Deworming Cost
Worm infestations are extremely dangerous to the dog’s health and often fatal. Deworming regularly helps avoid infestations and keeps your dog healthy. Speaking to your vet about the proper deworming procedure is vital, as the treatment is customized according to the dog’s age and weight. Deworming tablets are pretty cheap, costing only INR 100 each.
Preventive Medications Cost
The silky smooth coat is a dream home for ticks and fleas and a consistent source of annoyance for your Mudhol. We recommend brushing the dog’s coat regularly to detect fleas and ticks. Preventative measures include using a powder designed to keep the ticks away. Stocking up on these is essential as it can relieve you and your dog from the chances of skin allergies; this powder may cost INR 500.
Additionally, antiseptic spray, band-aids, cotton, and ear drops should constitute this high-energy dog’s first aid kit. This can be a real lifesaver if your dog gets any accidental injuries. All these essential items may cost up to INR 500.
Housing and Confinement Cost
Crate training is crucial in housebreaking your dog; all pet parents swear by it. There are several options and sizes of crates. Picking one that can house your Mudhol comfortably is essential. The dimensions of the crate will depend on the size of your dog. Ideally, a crate should be 3 cm higher and 12 cm longer than your hound to provide enough space for the dog to move around. Equip the box with a bed to help your Mudhol get a good night’s sleep. The crate may cost anywhere between INR 1,500-2,000, while the cost of the bed should be around INR 600-1,000.
Accessories Cost
History can speak for us when we assert that having too many options invariably leads to confusion. Fortunately for us, the writers on this side of the screen, a glammed-up dog is not a norm but an exception. Quite frankly, we barely have a good fashion sense when dressing, let alone dolling up the dogs! However, we have a lot to say about other dog accessories that can make your and your hound’s life easier. Let’s indulge in one such popular argument.
Collar Vs. Harness
Usually, collars give you better control over the dog when walking. These come in different types, from trendy to cute, all suited to make the dog walks a joyful activity. However, most collars intentionally constrict to help train the dog. This constricting puts pressure on the dog’s throat and stands to cause irreparable damage. Since the Mudhol hounds are frequent pullers, a collar is not a good choice. A harness may be a better fit for your Mudhol, as it supports the dog’s spine and chest. Picking one that gives you reasonable control over the dog can make all the difference in the walking experience. A sturdy harness with a good grip may cost you INR 600-1,000.
Toys Cost
Playing fetch and tug can be quite stimulating for the dog, serving its instincts of working for its master. Keeping this in mind, fetch balls and frisbee make wonderful toys for this breed. Treasure hunts and puzzles may also provide a fantastic opportunity to bond with your Mudhol puppy.
We recommend initially investing in a variety of toys to give your puppy excellent exposure to the myriad of activities they can spend their time doing. Once your hound has a preference, you can shop for toys accordingly. Based on how much you want to spend, the monthly expense of toys for your dog may add up to INR 250-500.
Grooming Cost
Mudhol hounds have a single short coat, making them perfect for India’s hot climate. The coat is silky and smooth and relatively easy to take care of. Brushing a regular Mudhol hound can be done weekly. In contrast, the Pashmina variety of the breed with a feathery coat needs brushing daily. Although, despite the feathery silk-like jacket, even the Pashmi doesn’t shed a lot of hair. Bathing these dogs can be done once a month.
Investing in a grooming kit equipped with nail clippers, a brush, shampoo, and conditioner is essential for smoothly managing your dog’s grooming needs. Such a kit may cost INR 500-1,000. Professional grooming services are not a popular choice for the breed due to the minimal grooming requirements of the Mudhol hound. However, if the owner fancies a professional service, those charges can go up to INR 500 per session.
Walker Cost
Not only can these sighthounds reach meteoric speeds of 60-65 km/h, but they can also sustain such a pace over long distances. These hounds are built for activity, shown in their muscular limbs’ structure. Consequently, fast-paced walks and running sessions are indispensable for them. To keep your Mudhol hound healthy and athletic, ensuring these high-energy demands are being fulfilled is vital. Recruiting a dog walker may be a great help in maintaining these hounds at their highest potential. The monthly charges of a dog walker constitute a sum of INR 2,500-5,000.
Training and Socializing Class Cost
The Mudhol belongs to the sighthound group of dogs and was specifically bred to hunt. For this reason, they have a rather aggressive disposition with a high prey drive. The hounds regard anything small that moves as prey; this includes a wide range of animate and inanimate objects. Further, they are one-person dogs and do not warm up to strangers quickly. Due to this, professional training and socializing prove crucial in raising a well-rounded hound.
Training sessions should be short and engaging for the best results. We advise instituting the training regime as soon as the dog comes home. Professional trainers charge INR 5,000-7,000 monthly to harness the dog’s hunting instincts and inculcate good habits in them.
Treat Cost
Treats play a huge role in training any dog breed; the Mudhol hounds’ case is no different. Ensuring your hound feeds on the best high-quality treat is essential as they make up about 10-30% of the daily food intake. Homemade treats like boiled chicken, paneer, egg, and veggies are excellent and cheap options. While commercial dog treats are expensive, they are also tailor-made to stimulate the tastebuds of your hound. We do not recommend free feeding your hound to ensure good health. The monthly treat cost of your Mudhol hound adds up to INR 500-1,000.
Insurance Cost
The native Mudhol dog breed is highly resistant to diseases commonly observed in other dog breeds. However, to avoid unforeseen casualties, we recommend investing in insurance plans that cover essential health concerns and third-party liabilities in case of accidental injuries. Such insurance plans usually cost INR 7,000-10,000 annually.
Travel Cost
Mudhol hounds sustain high speed for long distances and thrive in the hot summers of India. This is good news for travelers who are often deterred by a dog’s low activity level when traveling. Ideally, Mudhols are wonderful road trip companions who enjoy watching the cars go by while gawking at the picturesque sunset. You can also take this sighthound on a train journey at low prices.
Air travel is generally expensive, with the ticket fare varying based on travel distance, weight and size of the dog, and choice of airlines. For domestic travel, you can expect to spend INR 5000-20,000. International travel is on the high end of the spectrum and may cost up to INR 2-3 lakh. The dog’s documents, including a Rabies certificate and other health certificates, are mandatory to travel by air.
Daycare Cost
Mudhol dog’s past reflects their close relationship with their masters, for whom they hunted fiercely. This points to their need to stay with humans; although not cuddly or overly affectionate, the Mudhol hound requires its masters’ presence. Therefore, a daycare facility proves consequential for someone who works all day. Daycare facilities offer food and boarding services. Additionally, they also take care of any special requests of the owner. These services’ charges vary based on location; an estimate of INR 500-2,000 daily is fitting.
Registration Cost
The Indian Kennel Club has made it mandatory for dogs to be registered; this organization maintains the dog’s pedigree. The registration procedure is simple and easy and costs anywhere between INR 400-1,000. Enrolling your dog requires essential information about the dog’s parents and the owners’ previous registration records. Microchipping is another necessary procedure that provides your dog with permanent credentials—getting your dog microchipped costs INR 1,000.
Miscellaneous
The one-time cost of the food storage container, poop bag, pee cleaner, food, and water dish are often forgotten. These expenses may add up to INR 2,500-4,000.
Hidden and Related Costs of Mudhol Puppy Ownership
Mudhol hounds are one-person dogs; they are easy to train due to their intelligence but could be stubborn and easily distracted. Due to this reason, the Mudhol hounds are not recommended for novice or inexperienced owners.
The ideal owner of the Mudhol hounds needs to be firm and consistent in training and should match the dog’s energy levels. When properly trained, these dogs are fiercely loyal and quite affectionate to their owners.
Fun Fact: The Mudhol hound is believed to be a part of the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj’s army.
Important Things to Consider Before Buying A Mudhol
The Mudhol hound is famous in the Indian Military and National Security Guard (NSG) due to their loyalty and intelligence. These traits also make them stubborn; let’s discover some hard-to-digest facts about the breed.
- The Mudhol hounds are hunting dogs. This makes them distracted easily during training sessions.
- The breed is vulnerable to cold and rain.
- Due to the high prey drive, the dogs may not be well suited for houses with other small dogs and cats.
- This breed is not friendly and has an aloof and standoffish temperament.
- The Mudhol’s exercise requirements are extensive, and the owner needs to match their energy; otherwise, they tend to be destructive.
Benefits of Bringing A Mudhol Puppy To Home
PM Modi spoke about the Indian dog breeds in Mann Ki Baat, which have contributed widely to the recent popularity of the species. Let’s talk about some benefits of owning this breed.
- This dog breed may be ideal for owners who can’t spare much time to groom their pets.
- When trained and socialized correctly, the dog is eager to please its masters and becomes an excellent companion for jogs and long walks.
- The Mudhol hound is developed after several years of selective breeding, making them highly resistant to diseases.
- This breeds loyalty, and their conservative nature makes them excellent guard dogs.
FAQs
Are the Mudhol hounds aggressive?
The Mudhol hounds are predisposed to aggression due to their hunting instincts. However, this can be managed by training.
Is the Mudhol hound easy to train?
The initial training may be difficult, but employing the proper techniques and strategies will help your Mudhol dog becomes an excellent house pet.
Are Mudhol hounds good for first-time owners?
Novice owners may find it challenging to handle these dogs as they have a mind and can be stubborn.
Is Mudhol an excellent guarding dog?
This breed is famous for its hunting and guarding skills and makes an excellent deterrent for intruders.
Summing It Up
Mudhol hounds are gaining popularity rapidly in the Indian army and taking up roles as guard dogs to protect and serve their human companions. Fortunately, this rise in popularity is slowly and steadily increasing the breed population. With the collective efforts of the government and dog lovers, this breed is all set to lose its critically endangered title. Therefore, bringing this breed home is as much a social decision as a financial one; it can be life-changing for both you and the dog breed. We recommend analyzing your limits and expectation before taking the plunge. Once you’re confident, Mudhol parents all over the country can vouch for the dog’s loyalty and companionship.