Mucuchies vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison | MyDogBreeds

Mucuchies vs Canaan Dog - Breed ComparisonMucuchies is originated from Venezuela but Canaan Dog is originated from Israel. Mucuchies may grow 10 cm / 4 inches higher than Canaan Dog. Mucuchies may weigh 36 kg / 80 pounds more than Canaan Dog. Mucuchies may live 3 years less than Canaan Dog. Both Mucuchies and Canaan Dog has almost same litter size. Both Mucuchies and Canaan Dog requires Low maintenance.

History

mucuchies - historyThe Mucuchies are a breed born in the Venezuelan mountains, in the late 1700s. They are rare today but were popular in the mountains for hundreds of years. They are believed to be a cross between the dogs brought by the Spanish Conquistadors in the 14th and 15th centuries and the local dogs. However, by the 1960s this rare breed was close to extinction.

Bred primarily as herders and watchdogs, their ancestry likely included the Algerian Mastiff, the Spanish Mastiff, the Great Pyrenees, and the Atlas Shepherd, otherwise known as the Aidi. The early development of the Mucuchies is attributed to Wilender Ferrari, DVM. At the time, Simon Boliva was fighting for Venezuelan independence in the city of Mucuchies. He adopted a member of the breed and named it for the city. The name stuck as the name for the breed.

Later in this timeframe, the Mucuchies was crossbred with the Pyrenean Mastiffs that friars brought to the Andes from their monasteries. With them, they also brought the sheep for the dogs to herd and guard. During the 1920s the breed spread throughout the country, but by the beginning of the 1960s there was a major decline in the breed. This was partly due to changes in culture and lifestyle in the Andes.

In 1961 a Mucuchies club was formed for the breed preservation and the breed was formally named the National Dog of Venezuela. The club was disbanded in the mid-1960’s and this led the breed to the edge of extinction. By 2008 there was another major push to save the breed. This effort came from the government who wanted to preserve the breed. In 2008, they created the Fundacion Nevado and sent six Mucuchies to the Waraira Repano Cable Car System in the El Avila National Park so that the dogs would be in a climatic environment as similar to the Andes mountain as possible. This was successful and the program was increased by Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez.

As the breed continued to develop the shepherding instincts were lost and the guarding aspects were strengthened. This left today’s Mucuchies as a breed of gentle, active dogs with strong characters and a loving disposition. They are gentle with their families but protective and aggressive with strangers. They are the only native breed of Venezuela and currently, there are programs in the mountains to re-establish and strengthen them.

In addition to their name for the town of Mucuchie, the breed is also called the Paramo’s Dog or the Snowy. These programs exist because in Venezuela they are near extinction once again. This is the result of inbreeding and more cross-breeding, this time with larger dogs like St. Bernards. Thus, the continued efforts by the Nevado Foundation with the assistance of the government to restore the original Mucuchies breed to Venezuela.

canaan dog - historyThe Canaan Dog is an attractive dog and is Israel’s national breed. Research reveals that the dog’s history can be traced way back to 2200BC.

The dog’s origins go back to the pariah dog of the Middle East. It is believed that the dog has been perceived as a sacred animal and that he was both guard- and herd dog of the ancient Israelites.

A certain Dr Rudolphina Menzel moved from Vienna to Israel and was asked to establish a service dog organization. She trained and bred them, finding them to be highly trainable. She began a breeding program in 1934, providing working dogs for the military and starting a selective breeding program for the Canaan dog. The Israel Kennel Club dog recognized the Canaan for the first time in 1953.

Description

mucuchies puppy - descriptionThe appearance of the Mucuchies is that of a breed of large dogs who stand two feet at the shoulder and can weight one hundred pounds. They have a deep chest, heads that are wedge-shaped and skulls shaped like domes. Their muzzles are straight, and their nostrils are large on their black nose. The Mucuchies have dark eye and eyelids along with ears that are triangular in shape and medium in size. Their lips are black but this and he has a well-developed ruff.

They are large, sturdy dogs with a grand appearance and tremendous energy. Their neck is strong, short and very muscular with wide shoulders and a straight back. The tail is much longer than their hocks and it is shaped like a fan and he raises it when he is alerted. They have a short, thick coat and most are white or white with gray, honey or black. This is a very attractive breed.

Appearance:

canaan dog puppy - descriptionThe Canaan Dog is lean, standing at between 51–61cm and weighing roughly 18-25kg. The medium sized Canaan Dog’s coat is medium length and can be sandy to brown, white or black or a mix of these. The eyes are dark and inquisitive, the ears are erect and the high set bushy tail is curled over the back.

Temperament:

The Canaan Dog is alert, intelligent, confident and territorial. They are wary of strangers and because they’re alert they’re constantly aware of movement, making them a superb watchdog. However, the dog isn’t aggressive and he makes an excellent family pet, even around children and other pets.

He will need training and socialization though to make him obedient and amicable. He is a strong-willed dog. He is co-operative when being trained and responds well. They are energetic and will make a good companion for runners and cyclists.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

mucuchies dog - characteristicsGood with children and very good with their own families. Might be a little standoffish with others.

Special talents

They no longer have the strong herding instinct but are outstanding guard dogs.

Adaptability

Yes but need land to run in. Don’t put this giant dog in an apartment. You will both be miserable.

Learning ability

Very intelligent and their ability and willingness to learn is very good.

canaan dog dog - characteristicsThe Canaan Dog is an intelligent dog and this makes him easy to train. He is a strong-willed, independent dog and will require training and socialization to make him obedient. He is an affectionate and loving dog and will make a wonderful family pet.

The Canaan Dog is also a fairly healthy, robust breed and appeals to many dog owners who don’t have to spend money on professional grooming for him. He doesn’t require much – isn’t high maintenance at all and he is just waiting to become a member of a human family where he can be loved and cared for just like any other family member.

Health Problems

mucuchies puppies - health problemsBecause of their rarity and somewhat isolation, they do not have many genetic health concerns. They do however face at least a couple of the issues that most large dogs face.

Hip and/or Elbow Dysplasia

This can be a serious issue for such a large dog. It can cause arthritis and lameness.

Accidents

This might be the biggest threat to the Mucuchies’ health. They are big dogs and if they injury limbs it can be quite serious.

Bloat

The distension or inversion of the stomach and intestines is potentially fatal and must be treated immediately. Large dogs are prone to bloat and feeding schedules can go a long way in preventing it.

canaan dog puppies - health problemsThe Canaan Dog has a strong immune system and with good care from his owner he can reach 15 years of age. He has been used to living in harsh conditions in the deserts of Israel.

If you want to buy a Canaan dog, as with any dog, a good breeder will be able to produce health certificates for the puppy's parents. These certificates confirm that the dog has been tested and cleared of certain common conditions that affect dogs.

Because hip dysplasia is such a common problem with dogs, you may want to see health certificates from the Orthopedic Foundation for Animals (OCA).

A form of cancer that you might expect to see in this breed is Lymphosarcoma, a cancer which affects the lymphoid system. The lymphoid system is a critical part of the dog’s immune system to fight off viruses and bacteria.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

mucuchies dogs - caringAs mentioned in health concerns, feeding appropriately is critical to the Mucuchies’ health. Puppies need a high quality, large breed dry food 2-3 times per day at ½ cup each time. Don’t overfeed. Don’t exercise before or after eating to prevent bloat.

Feeding the adult

The adult Mucuchies should eat at least twice a day for a total of two and one-half cups. So, you might feed one and ¼ cup at each meal. Again, it is critically important that you don’t overfeed. Don’t feed before or after strenuous exercise and don’t let your Mucuchies eat too quickly in order to avoid bloat.

Points for Good Health

This is a large dog with generally very good health. His stamina and heart will impress you.

Games and Exercises

The Mucuchies is not an active inside dog, but he is a large dog that needs daily exercise. They need to be able to run or at least to trot. A large yard or dog bark is necessary. However, this big, double coated dog hates the hot weather and needs a cooler climate. Winter is fine with him. Don’t overwork them while they are growing. Walks are the best exercise for this breed.

Diet:

canaan dog dogs - caringThe Canaan Dog needs a steady diet of high-quality food, whether you provide your own home-made food or you buy commercially manufactured food. A healthy diet full of minerals and vitamins is essential for good health. If you’re not sure how to feed your Canaan dog, your veterinarian can advise you according to your dog’s age.

Remember that dogs are carnivorous so even though raw meat can be pretty expensive, you want to include it in his diet from time to time to stave off itchy, dry skin rashes and other illnesses. Always see to it that there is a bowl of fresh, cool water 24/7.

Grooming:

The Canaan Dog is a low maintenance breed who has moderate, seasonal shedding. The coat is easy to groom. He will need a good brush twice a week to keep him free of loose hairs and to keep his coat shiny.

Other kinds of grooming are also important such as brushing his teeth 2 or 3x a week to remove tartar build-up. Bad teeth can affect the immune system and make him ill.

Exercise:

Canaans are going to require a moderate amount of exercise. Just like with any dog, you can’t just buy a cute puppy and when he becomes an adult and no longer cute to you, forget about him in the backyard. A dog is a 15 year responsibility and he will need regular walks and games from you to guarantee his health and happiness.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Working dog
Origin:
Venezuela
Israel
Height Male:
56 - 71 cm
22 - 28 inches
51 - 61 cm
20 - 25 inches
Height Female:
51 - 66 cm
20 - 26 inches
49 - 61 cm
19 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
46 - 61 kg
101 - 135 pounds
20 - 25 kg
44 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
47 - 57 kg
103 - 126 pounds
18 - 25 kg
39 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
10 - 15 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
4 - 6
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Paramo's dog , Venezuelan Sheepdog Dog of Páramos ( Snowy (Nevado)
Kelev K'naani, Kaleb Kanaani
Colors Available:
all white or white with spots of other colors
Sandy, brown, black, white or bi-colored
Coat:
short coats smooth, medium-haired double coat
Medium length and coarse
Shedding:
Moderate
Minimal, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Courageous, Intelligent, Loyal, Protective
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low maintenance
Low maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs Mucuchies - Breed Comparison
  2. Presa Canario vs Mucuchies - Breed Comparison
  3. Pyredoodle vs Mucuchies - Breed Comparison
  4. Sarplaninac vs Mucuchies - Breed Comparison
  5. Native American Indian Dog vs Mucuchies - Breed Comparison
  6. Rafeiro do Alentejo vs Mucuchies - Breed Comparison
  7. Mucuchies vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  8. Mucuchies vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  9. Mucuchies vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  10. Mucuchies vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  11. Mucuchies vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  12. Mucuchies vs Alaskan Malamute - Breed Comparison
  13. Mucuchies vs Bullmastiff - Breed Comparison
  14. Mucuchies vs Great Pyrenees - Breed Comparison
  15. Mucuchies vs Boerboel - Breed Comparison
  16. Mucuchies vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  17. Mucuchies vs Labrador Husky - Breed Comparison
  18. Mucuchies vs Argentine Dogo - Breed Comparison
  19. Mucuchies vs Giant Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  20. Mucuchies vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  21. Mucuchies vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Mucuchies vs Goldador - Breed Comparison
  23. Mucuchies vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  24. Mucuchies vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  25. Mucuchies vs Dogo Cubano - Breed Comparison
  26. Sakhalin Husky vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Catahoula Leopard vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  28. German Pinscher vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  29. Portuguese Water Dog vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Puli vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  31. Griffon Bleu de Gascogne vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  32. German Spaniel vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  33. Canadian Eskimo Dog vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  34. McNab vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  35. Porcelaine vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  36. Finnish Lapphund vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  37. Griffon Nivernais vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  38. Hokkaido vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  39. Petit Bleu de Gascogne vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  40. Pumi vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  41. Griffon Fauve de Bretagne vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  42. Istrian Sheepdog vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  43. Jamthund vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  44. Karelian Bear Dog vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  45. Karelo-Finnish Laika vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  46. Kintamani vs Canaan Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Canaan Dog vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  48. Canaan Dog vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  49. Canaan Dog vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  50. Canaan Dog vs Aidi - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds