10 Types of African Dog Breeds

Africa is home to some fascinating dog breeds. From the barkless Basenji to the huge Boerboel, you may be surprised by the variety of dogs that come out of one continent.

Many of these breeds are more obscure. European and American kennel clubs only recently accepted many of these dog breeds. Plus, many potential dog owners still have difficulty finding local breeders for practically all African dog breeds.

Still, that doesn’t mean these breeds don’t make great pets. Let’s look at ten of the most well-known African dog breeds.

1. Basenji

Basenjis are popularly called “barkless.” However, that doesn’t mean quiet. They do make sounds, but these sounds resemble a yodel more than a bark. Basenjis are also unique in a few other ways. For instance, they groom themselves like cats. Many owners also describe them as acting more like cats than dogs, including a high level of independence.

These dogs are relatively small. They only reach 17″ tall and weigh a max of 24 pounds. Usually, they have a brown coat mixed with white and black. Their coat is short, weatherproof, and shiny. They don’t require regular brushing or haircuts. Similarly to cats, they can take care of their own coat just fine.

Originally, these dogs were bred to hunt rabbits in the Congo, which is why they are also called the “Congo Terrier”. Therefore, they are very energetic with a lot of endurance. An active family is best, as this canine isn’t going to lay around all day.

The Basenji is one of the oldest dog breeds on the planet. They have a bit of a cult following, but they aren’t widely popular outside of Africa.

2. Rhodesian Ridgeback

The Rhodesian Ridgeback is one of the most popular African dogs outside of Africa. Many breeders in Europe and American specialize in this breed, making it more widely available than other African dogs.

This canine developed in Zimbabwe, which was known as Rhodesia when this breed was recognized. This canine was original bred as a combination guard/hunting dog. They can run quite fast, allowing them to take down antelopes. However, they also guarded their masters and families from lions and other dangerous animals.

Today, this breed still requires a lot of activity. They’re best for an active family for this reason. Due to their guarding instincts, they can be a bit aloof with stangers. However, they are very affectionate and even-tempered with their family. Early socialization is required to ensure they don’t see everything as a threat.

The Rhodisian Ridgeback weighs between 70 to 85 pounds and can reach up to 27″ tall. They got their name from their distinctive stripe down the middle of their back. Technically, the fur here isn’t a different color. But the fur on their spine runs in the opposite direction as the rest of their coat, so it appears darker.

Despite being a guard dog, the Rhodesian Ridgeback looks quite cuddly with its big eyes and floppy ears. Their adorable appearance may be one reason why they are so popular outside of Africa.

3. Boerboel

The Boerboel is a large African dog breed. They’re known as the “African lion dog,” as their main function was to protect homes and livestock from predators, like lions. To accomplish this task, they had to grow very large. Today, these dogs can stand up to 27″ and many reach 200 pounds. They’re extremely muscular and bulky.

As you might imagine, this canine shares his lineage with Cane Corsos, Pitbulls, and Shepherds.

Despite being a guard dog, the Boerboel loves its family and remains extremely devoted. The phrase “gentle giant” absolutely applies to this dog. They’r particularly known for their fondness of children. Owners describe this dog as easy to train and very obedient. In some cases, the Boerboel has even been used as a therapy dog.

With that said, the Boerboel is a dangerous dog due to their large size and guarding instincts. Many countries have banned them for this reason. However, with proper training and socialization, this canine tends to be more gentle and aggressive.

4. Africanis

The Africanis isn’t technically a dog breed. However, many native dogs in Africa that aren’t in a different breed fall into this umbrella. The term simply means a dog native to Africa. Only a few decades ago, these dogs were considered feral mutts that were often culled. Luckily, work over the last few decades has helped these dogs get along with African families a bit better.

They still aren’t that popular. However, they’re far more likely to be kept as pets than they were a few centuries ago.

Because these dogs don’t have a specific breed standard, they vary a lot. They weigh anywhere between 50 to 100 pounds. Usually, they have a short, practical coat that doesn’t require much brushing. Long legs and a slim body are the norm, too.

As they’ve survived ferally for a long time, they are great hunting dogs. These instincts mean they are very energetic and should be kept on a leash at all times. These dogs are devoted to their families, but they aren’t as affectionate as most other dogs. Breeders outside of Africa are nearly impossible to come by, too.

5. Sloughi

The Sloughi resembles a Greyhound. In fact, they are also called the Arabian Greyhound. However, they are extremely rare, ranking at number 200 in terms of popularity in the United States. Yet, in Morocoo, this breed enjoys a decent amount of popularity.

These dogs are often a bit bigger than a Greyhound. They can weigh anywhere from 45 to 70 pounds and stand at 29″. They’re very tall and lean, as they’re designed for running. They have very little hair, though the fur at the ends of their tail is longer and curly. Their chest is deep, and they have a pretty long head.

The Sloughi has a lot of energy, requiring a lot of exercise. However, their endurance isn’t the highest. They need intense exercise, but not for very long. These dogs also have a high prey-drive, so they shouldn’t be let to wonder. They are affectionate, sweet, and loving.

6. Aidi

The Aidi is a unique dog from the Atlas mountains, where herdsmen use it to protect sheep. However, this dog isn’t a herding dog, despite working with sheep. Instead, the dog barks when danger appears, letting the flock know to run. The dog performs more of a watchdog function than a herding function.

Aidi can also be utilized as hunting dogs, though not as efficiently as other breeds. They’re a great “all-around” working dogs for families that need a bit of extra help.

These dogs have a fluffy double coat that requires regular brushing. After all, they live in the mountains. They can get between 50 and 60 pounds.

This breed requires plenty of exercise, and they can be prone to separation anxiety. Therefore, we recommend only active families who can remain home for much of the day adopt them.

7. Azawakh

The Azawakh remains one of the rarest African breeds. These canines take after the Sloughi in many aspects. As a sighthound, they have a lean and long body. They were bred to chase gazelle and other prey animals and come from the Sahara desert region.

With an affectionate disposition, these dogs make good companion pets. They’re smart but stubborn, making them difficult to train. Typically, you’ll need to put quite a work into socialization, as they can be aloof around strangers.

Many people mistake this canine for Sloughi. They’re about the same hight, but weigh less at 35 to 55 pounds. As you might guess, their body is extremely lean. Usually, their coloration ranges from brown to red. They tend to have white markings on their underbelly and face.

Unlike many African breeds, their ears are floppy, giving them a rather cute appearance.

8. Pharaoh Hound

As you might guess from the name, the Pharaoh Hound originated from Egypt, where they were kept by pharaohs and other nobles. Many consider the Pharaoh Hound to be one of the oldest domesticated dog breeds. These canines remain pretty common in their homeland. However, dog owners often have a hard time finding them in Europe and America.

This canine weights only about 45 to 55 pounds and stands at 21 to 25 inches. Their ears grow to a massive size on the top of their head, adding to their cuteness. Their coat is shorter and requires minimum grooming, usually sporting red or golden hues.

This breed is known for chasing prey relentlessly. Therefore, you must keep them on a leash at all times. They are trainable to some extent, though you cannot override their hunting instincts. This breed tends to have a loving attitude, so it doesn’t makes a good guard dog.

9. Coton De Tulear

Unlike most dogs on this list, the Coton De Tulear comes from Madagascar. This island sits just off the coast of East Africa. Originally, the dog developed naturally due to the very small gene pool on the island. However, a local aristocrat took a liking for the breed and started the first breeding program.

Many dog lovers know of this breed due to its very long lifespan – 19 years on average. Their white coat has a cotton-like texture and is quite poofy. Due to their long fur, this dog requires regular grooming (and even clipping).

While this canine only reaches 15 pounds, they are much more robust and sturdy than other dogs their size. Due to their natural development, they tend to be extremely healthy (which contributes to their long lifespan).

Tulears were bred as companion dogs, so they fulfill this role very well. They love to have fun and are extremely affectionate. Unlike many small dogs, they also do well with children due to their robust build.

10. Chinese Crested Dog

You would be forgiven for thinking that the Chinese Crested Dog was from China. After all, “Chinese” is in the name. However, the dog breed actually originates from Africa. It wasn’t until after its initial development that the breed was taken by Chinese explorers and brought into China, where its breed standard was finalized.

Europe’s first encounter with this breed was through China, which is likely where the breed gets its name from.

Many people also call this breed the Abyssinian Sand Terrier and the Chinese Ship Dog. Even after being transported to China, the breed was often kept as a ratter on ships, helping keep disease-carrying rats in check.

The Chinese Crested Dog is smaller at only 8 to 13 pounds. These dogs stand at between 11 to 12 inches. This dog is mostly hairless, with scruffs of hair on its neck, head, legs, and tail. He is a very unique-looking dog for sure.

Like many smaller breeds, the Chinese Crested Dog was bred as a companion animal. Therefore, they are extremely affectionate and love to snuggle with their family.

Up Next

• African Civet
• African Wild Dog
• African Golden Cat

The photo featured at the top of this post is © Osetrik/Shutterstock.com