Do you want to adopt a dog but are worried about how it will survive in your desi household? Don’t worry; we have the perfect dog for you, The Indian Pariah dog, one of the oldest Indian breeds also called the “Desi Dog,” who will blend perfectly into your fun and loving desi household.
The ancient desi dog excels as an Indian family pet because of its high adaptability to the climate, low maintenance, loyalty, intelligence, and affection for its owners. Ironically, “pariah” means an outcast, which is the opposite of these adorable pups.
Let’s not make them an outcast anymore. Before you welcome the Indian Pariah into your lovely hearts and homes, we’ve created an extensive guide to help you with the expenses and other related costs of owning The Indian Pariah.
How much does the Indian Pariah Dog cost in India?
Indian Pariah is India’s oldest breed; their price depends on several factors like availability, breeder, location, and demand in your region. Indian Pariah generally costs between INR 2,500 to INR 8,000.
Is the Indian Pariah the same as street dogs?

No, stray dogs are not the same as the Indian Pariah. Indian Pariah is a distinct breed that belongs to an ancient landrace of dogs known as the pariah dogs. The stray dogs are mongrels and a cross between many other species. Due to crossbreeding, purebred Indian Pariahs are significantly less in number and are primarily found in remote villages.
Are Pariah dogs dangerous?
Indian Pariahs can be dominant and territorial, making them aggressive towards other animals. But this behavior can be resolved by socializing and training them early. It will make them comfortable and effective around other humans and pets.
Factors that Influence the Buying Price of Indian Pariah in India
Indian Pariah Age: Buying A Puppy vs. An Old Dog
Choosing between a dog and a puppy is the most complicated decision dog owners must make. We advise you to consider your family’s needs and decide what best serves you and them before deciding between the two.
In their initial periods, puppies require loads of their owner’s time, attention, care, feeding, training, and patience. However, if you raise your pet the way you want, they’ll grow up to be the ideal pet.
Because they have previously been trained and groomed to make your job much more accessible, adult dogs don’t need to be prepared. The drawback is that you will have to deal with their undesirable habits, which are ingrained and unchangeable. Puppies can be costlier than adult dogs as people find adult dogs less appealing due to their shorter lifespan.
Adopting the Indian Pariah vs. Buying

Let’s say you’re considering adopting an Indian Pariah. If so, we advise you to adopt animals from reputable organizations or non-profits rather than on the street. Adopting an Indian Pariah from the roads can put your dog in danger of diseases like rabies and reveal aggressive tendencies.
Researching adoption options and waiting for your puppy to become available might take a while. The Indian Pariah can be purchased from reliable breeders if you don’t want to deal with the fuss. However, buying from breeders can cost more than adopting from shelters.
Breeder Factor
One of the healthiest breeds, the Indian Pariah can survive in any setting and has a high level of disease resistance. But it doesn’t mean they don’t need routine checkups with the vet and immunizations to stay fit and healthy. Therefore, ensuring the Indian Pariah you purchase is in good physical shape is crucial for their health.
For your convenience, we have listed below a few of the various alternatives you have for purchasing.
Buying the Indian Pariah from Puppy Mills
(Please don’t go with this option)
When dogs are produced in cages, without sufficient diet, and under unhygienic circumstances, it causes significant health issues, which we call a Puppy mill. Puppy mill owners are unlicensed, unregistered breeders who are only looking for a way to make money and try to trick people by offering low prices, false certificates, and pictures of puppies to lure them in.
To ensure you are purchasing a healthy puppy from a reputable source, you should be wary of such dishonest breeders, conduct adequate research on the breeder, and request certificates to assess their credibility. It can be time-consuming but worth the wait when you hold your healthy puppy in your arms.
Buying the Indian Pariah from Pet Shops
It’s not as simple as it may seem to purchase a puppy from a pet store; you must get the puppy’s medical documents, observe the puppy with its mother, and request information from the breeder to confirm the legitimacy of the source.
Some pet stores purchase puppies at low prices from unscrupulous breeders or puppy mills to make a profit. We recommend you take your time and patience before buying from a pet shop.
We are not saying all pet shops are wrong, some do sell healthy purebred puppies at reasonable prices, but it takes time to find a good puppy, just like all the other good things in life.
Buying the Indian Pariah from Middleman or Brokers
Assume you don’t want to go through the hassle of researching and locating a breeder. In that case, you can contact intermediaries or brokers to put you in touch with reputable breeders directly, saving you time and effort. The commission that brokers charge fees for their job drives up the cost of your dog, but it depends on their commission rates. They generally charge a 10% to 20% fee.
Some brokers are dishonest and are linked with illegitimate breeders, and they will try to trick you by offering low prices or wrong certificates. We recommend being thorough with your research before finalizing a broker or breeder.
Buying the Indian Pariah from Reputable breeders
A safe and practical choice is to purchase from respected breeders. A reliable breeder will give you information on everything from the puppy’s medical records and parents to the puppy’s vaccination regimen, health issues in the parents, and what they are feeding him. Reputable breeders must be registered with The State Animal Welfare Board or the Kennel Club of India. Before closing the deal, they answer all of your questions and offer a warranty. Buying from a quality breeder can be expensive.
Questions to Ask A Breeder
Are you unsure what to ask your breeder? We’ve compiled a list of questions to assist you in resolving this problem.
- Are the parents members of KCI? If so, will they be able to provide certificates?
- What is the parents’ medical history? Did they have any significant hereditary health issues?
- How long have you been breeding dogs? Could you please tell me more about the Indian Pariah breed?
- Is the puppy immunized, dewormed, and socialized?
- What is my puppy’s temperament, and what are you feeding him?
Before you make the deal, ask if you can meet the parents and the puppy.
Gender
Male puppies are usually more expensive than female puppies. We advise picking the gender best fits your personality, though either any of them will make wonderful pets.
Size
Indian Pariah is a medium build dog weighing between 14 to 32 kilograms, and its height ranges from 18-35 inches. But the dogs in the south region of India are taller than their northern counterparts. Dogs originating from the south have a height between 45-55 cm, making the prices higher in the south.
Mix Breed or Purebred
Buying a purebred is preferred over mix bred because purchasing a purebred puppy reduces the chances of your dog developing hereditary health problems, as occurs in mixed breeds, which makes the price of a purebred Indian Pariah dog much higher.
Bloodline
A dog breed with a history of 1500 years and a pure bloodline is the Indian Pariah. Unlike mixed breeds, a pet’s lineage symbolizes its descendants. It ensures positive behavior and a healthy dog and fits according to breed standards.
If your dog belongs to its bloodline, it means they will be more healthy, fit, and well behaved according to their breeding standards which makes them cost higher than mixed breed dogs.
Coat Colours and Markings
The Indian Pariah is brown primarily or in various shades like tan, light tan, black tan, black, white, or reddish brown. They either have a solid color or markings of different colors like white. The dogs in the south have a darker color like red.
The price varies depending on your chosen color; if you go for rare colors like white in Indian Pariah, they will be expensive. On the other hand, common colors like brown or tan will cost lower.
Location
Owing to their Indian origin, The Indian Pariah is available throughout India, mostly in remote villages. The availability and demand for the breed in your area influence the price. Assume you have no trouble locating reliable sellers or breeders of The Indian Pariah dog in your area. In that case, it will be less expensive than in cities with high demand.
Certification and Warranties
You must purchase from a reputable breeder licensed to sell and breed dogs, which requires certification and warranties.
Many unlicensed breeders attempt to sell unhealthy puppies by using phony certificates as proof. To prevent falling for such scams, we advise you to conduct thorough research and give yourself plenty of time before deciding on the breeder that is right for you.
Yearly Maintenance Cost of owning The Indian Pariah
Taking care of your pet means providing nutritious food, accessories, frequent vet visits, preventive medications, etc., their entire life without fail or delay. All of this can take a significant leap on your expenses.
To give you an idea, we’ve curated a list of expenses you will incur once or recurring in a year to maintain your Indian Pariah dog.
Dog Food Factor
Food is an essential and consistent factor influencing the Indian Pariah’s maintenance cost. Because they are scavengers, Indian Pariahs have a healthy metabolism and can eat and digest almost anything. But that doesn’t mean they don’t need a nutritious, well-balanced diet. Some food-related concerns are addressed below.
Home Food vs. Purchased Food
Indian Pariahs are adaptable because they are not picky eaters and can survive on homemade food high in nutrients and protein. To keep them healthy, you must provide them with a well-balanced diet that includes cooked eggs, vegetables, and meat. You can also feed them store-bought commercial food if it appeals to their tastes and does not cause allergies.
We recommend feeding them mixtures or both because they can thrive on homemade food; however, you can also provide commercial food for your pets. Commercial food is expensive, with a month’s supply costing between INR 9,000 and INR 12,000 in India.
Portion Size and Frequency
Puppies need more nutrition as compared to adult or senior dogs. But it’s essential to understand how often your pet needs to be fed to avoid overfeeding.
We’ve created a feeding chart to help you feed your Indian Pariah better.
Age | Meals per day |
---|---|
Puppy ( 3 to 6 months) | 2-3 meals |
Adult ( 12 to 18 months) | 2 meals |
Senior ( 3 to 7 years) | 1-2 meals |
Fun Facts of Owning a Pariah
# The movie ‘Chillar Party’ has the Indian Pariah in the lead role. The film focuses on saving and protecting the Indian Pariah.
# Tushar Kapoor and Abhay Deol are proud celebrity owners of this breed.
# The National Geographic channel special documentary- Search for the First Dog (2003) featured The Indian Pariah and other breeds. The movie is based on a quest to find the origins of the first dog.
Vet Factor
Keeping your dog healthy will necessitate frequent vet visits and other expenses as they grow. Puppies need more vet visits than older dogs because their immune systems are still developing. All the vet and additional costs you might incur in a year are discussed below.
Vaccination Cost
Vaccinating your dog is the first and most crucial step toward keeping him healthy. We do not recommend bringing a dog home before it has been immunized because being bitten by an unvaccinated dog can spread diseases and viruses such as rabies.
If your dog has received any vaccinations, you should inquire with the breeder and get the necessary information. If not, we advise you to have a professional vaccinate them. Vaccinations range in price from INR 500 to INR 2,000.
Neutering or Spaying Surgery Cost
Neutering or spaying surgery is the surgical sterilization of your pet by removing their reproductive organs to prevent further reproduction and unwanted litter. It has several health benefits for you. Neutering is done to remove male testicles, and spaying is the removal of a female dog’s uterus and ovaries.
You should consult an expert to perform these surgeries and not attempt them at home. It can cost anywhere between INR 10,000 to INR 15,000 for these surgeries.
Deworming Cost
The Indian Pariah is nosy and can serve as a host for several worms, including roundworms and tapeworms, which can cause dehydration and weight loss in your pet.
To avoid such problems, they must be dewormed regularly, which can be done at home after discussing with your veterinarian or with deworming tablets that cost between INR 150 and INR 400. You can also treat your dog with organic deworming medicine such as dried neem leaf paste.
Preventive Medications Cost
Throughout your pet’s life, they will experience a variety of injuries and health issues that can be resolved at home with the right tools and preventive medications, some of which are listed below.
- Minor injuries can be treated with antiseptic spray, cotton, and bandages. It can cost up to Rs 500.
- Ear drops reduce inflammation and redness in your dog’s ears to help prevent ear infections. It ranges in price from INR 150 to INR 300.
- Tick and flea powder kill parasites, making your pet less susceptible to infections and health issues. It can cost as much as INR 500.
Housing and Confinement Cost
Your pet will be comfortable while sleeping or enjoying themselves if you buy them a suitable bed or crate. We advise getting your pet a crate while it is still a puppy, costing between INR 1,000 and 2,000. A crate can be utilized as a travel carrier for trips such as flights. We advise providing adult dogs with a suitable bed that is roomy and appropriate for their size. Depending on the size of your bed, the price can range from INR 2,000 to INR 3,000.
Accessories Cost
To take care of your dog with ease and efficiency, you will need helpful tools and accessories to help you handle and groom your pet’s unique needs and traits. We’ve listed various accessories that you might need.
Collar and Leash
If you use a collar and leash to keep your dog under control and guide their movements, walks with your dog could become more convenient. Before purchasing, it is essential to ensure the collar will fit your pet by examining its material, size, and comfort level.
It is less expensive to purchase a collar and leash together than separately. The price of a collar and leash combination can range from INR 1,000 to INR 2,000. However, they usually cost more when purchased separately.
Training Harness
Using a training harness helps you avoid your dog yanking on the leash, jumping up at strangers, or losing control while you are out on walks with him. A training harness eliminates all of your issues at once by reducing pulling, enabling you to manage your dog’s movements, and reducing strain on the neck, preventing further neck injuries. Between INR 800 to INR 2,500 can be spent on a training harness.
Toys Cost
Toys can only be used for playtime but can engage your dog when bored, provide comfort when anxious, and stimulate their mental and physical abilities. Different toys are available, like active toys, distraction toys, and comfort toys for your puppy. It would help if you bought a toy that suits your dog and is comfortable for them to play with without posing any threats or mishaps during playtime. Toys generally cost up to INR 500 to INR 2,000.
Grooming Cost
The Indian Pariah is a low-maintenance breed that requires little grooming. Their thin fur provides minimal shedding and no overt bad smells.
To maintain a healthy coat, they require weekly brushing and monthly bathing. You can use coconut oil to hydrate your dog’s skin or even incorporate it into your diet to improve your health.
Grooming supplies, including a hairbrush, nail clippers, shampoo, conditioner, and other items, will be necessary to take care of them at home. It will cost between INR 1,000 and INR 1,500.
If professional grooming sessions, which can cost up to INR 2,000 per session, are what you prefer instead of in-home grooming, you can take your pet there.
Walker Cost
To potty train your dog, you must take them on regular walks since childhood to establish a habit and routine. Walking your dog is an essential part of your routine, which helps keep you and your puppy healthy. Generally, it would help if you walked your dog 3-4 times a day, but it can be a little time-consuming.
If you can’t take your dog out for walks, you can hire walker services which generally cost between INR 2,000 to INR 5,000 but can vary depending on your region.
Training and Socialising Class Cost
Indian Pariah is an active dog that needs plenty of exercise (2 hours daily) to keep both an active body and mind. The breed can be aggressive if not appropriately socialized with family members from a young age due to its territorial and dominant tendencies.
They are quick learners and can be self-trained with the owner’s effort and patience. Training your dog will help you bond with them and spend quality time with your pup. However, suppose you don’t wish to devote hours or have a busy schedule for self-training your pet. In that case, you can hire a professional trainer that can cost anywhere between INR 17,000 to INR 22,000 for 3 to 4 months.
Treat Cost
Buying treats can have a variety of functions outside just providing a good supply of protein, including teaching, rewarding good behavior, preventing boredom in your pet, and showing your love.
In place of store-bought snacks, which can cost between INR 500 and INR 1,000 per month depending on how many and how often you buy them, you can utilize homemade goodies like cheese, eggs, meat, fruits, and vegetables that are full of nutrition and less expensive.
Insurance Cost
With the rising expenses of owning a dog, pet insurance is crucial to get medical and legal assistance in case your puppy faces an accident or any unprecedented situation. Insurance plans help cover your pet’s medical expenses, and some insurance plans also cover problems like your pet being stolen and third-party damages.
There are various pet insurance companies in India like Bajaj Allianz. We suggest you take your time finding the right policy for your pet and read the terms and conditions thoroughly before buying the insurance policy.
Travel Cost
It can cost up to INR 20,000 to bring your dog along for local flights, and international flights are expensive, costing between INR 2,00,000 to INR 3,00,000. Prices can vary due to the airline, distance, and weight of your dog.
In addition, you must select a carrier for your dog, adhere to airline regulations, book a hotel with a pet-friendly policy, and consider your dog’s comfort while traveling.
Since frequent travel affects your dog and its health, we advise avoiding taking it everywhere.
Daycare Cost
Daycare is the most sensible alternative in these circumstances if you are concerned about who will care for your dog. At the same time, you are trapped at work for extended hours or traveling.
Daycare facilities look after your pet by offering qualified services by professionals, air-conditioned spaces, and activities to keep your dog socializing with other puppies. Typically, daycare expenses range from INR 2,000 to INR 5,000.
Registration Cost
Getting your dog registered with KCI (Kennel Club of India) is mandatory throughout India. The government uses the registration fees for animal welfare.
- If both parents are registered, non-member fees are INR 500 and INR 400 for members.
- If the parents are unknown, for non-members, the fee is INR 100 and INR 800 for members.
- If one or both parents are imported dogs from another club, non-member fees are INR 500 and INR 400 for members.
You can either register them through an online form or by visiting the local office with the required documents.
Miscellaneous
Other than the accessories we’ve mentioned, you will need different things like food dishes, water bowls, toothbrushes, food storage containers, puppy pee pads, and clothes for your dog, which will increase your expenses by INR 2,000 to INR 3,000.
Hidden and Related Costs of the Indian Pariah Puppy Ownership
Being all hearts for a pet is not enough. Whether you acquire a puppy or an adult dog, the unavoidable cost of ownership is your constant work, love, and care for your dog during their lifetime.
Puppies need time to socialize, train, and adjust to their household. Conversely, adults will require daily exercise, compassion, and extra care as they age and develop health problems. We hope you recognize the enormous responsibility of owning a dog and fulfill it accordingly.
Essential Things to Consider Before Buying The Indian Pariah
Indian Pariahs are great dogs, but we understand that owning a dog is like having a new family member in your home. Knowing the good and bad parts will help you make an informed decision.
We’ve listed some things you should consider before buying The Indian Pariah.
- Aggressive- They are mildly aggressive towards other pets and dogs due to their territorial and dominant nature.
- Discipline- Indian Pariah gets bored quickly, leading to mischief, so avoid this rigid and disciplined routine for your dog.
- Overfeeding- Indian Pariahs are prone to obesity; you should ensure you don’t overfeed them and exercise them daily.
Benefits of Bringing an Indian Pariah Puppy at Home
Besides Indian Pariah being the bundle of happiness of your loving home, we’ve mentioned some more benefits of owning this breed.
- Easy to Groom- With their short coat that withstands India’s tropical climate and low shedding makes grooming easy and only requires brushing their skin once a week.
- Watch Dog- Indian Parish is active and alert by nature, making it an excellent watchdog for your home.
- Longer Lifespan- If adequately cared for and raised, their lifespan can go up to 15 years, much higher than other breeds.
- Adaptable- Indian Pariah is adaptable to India’s climate and environment, making them an excellent companion.
FAQs
How long does The Indian Pariah live?
The Indian Pariah generally has a lifespan of up to 13 years. However, they can live up to 15 years when properly cared for.
Is the Indian Pariah easy to train?
It is an intelligent and adaptable breed that can be easily trained with suitable reinforcements like treats and regular training sessions.
How often can I bathe them?
Bathing will help wash away dirt and natural oils from your dog’s skin and keep them clean and healthy. It is advised to bathe them once in 3-4 weeks.
Is the Indian Pariah loyal to their owners?
Yes, they are loyal and protective of their family members once they get attached and settled into your home.
Are Indian Pariahs aggressive?
Generally, they are mildly aggressive towards other pets and strangers, which can be solved by socializing and training them early.
Do Indian Pariahs drool or snore?
No, you don’t have to worry about drooling or snoring with Indian Pariahs. They neither drool nor snore.
Summing it Up
The Indian Pariah dog is friendly, playful, intelligent, adaptable to the climate, and will quickly settle into your family. They are the oldest breed in India, surviving over 1500 years. However, They have become street dogs due to neglect and ignorance of people opting for exotic species.
We believe that once you buy an Indian Pariah, you will not regret this decision as they are amazing dogs. We hope we’ve helped you with all the information you need to decide to buy or adopt The Indian Pariah for your family.