The purest breed of Indian hunting dog is described by many Indians as the Rajapalayam, or Poligar Hound (learn how to say the name here). Dating back several centuries and known as ‘shikaris,’ these dogs were once the companion of the royalty and aristocracy in Southern India. The slender sighthound is prized for its milky white coat, pink nose, and biddable nature, though some report that the dogs don’t like to be touched or handled by strangers. In the past, puppies with color were typically culled from litters because pure white dogs were preferred. Now, as with some white breeds, deafness can appear in the breed if breeders aren’t diligent.

Exquisitely handsome and graceful, the Rajapalayam is described as having a gait similar to the trotting of a thoroughbred horse, and the attention span of a gnat. Detractors say the breed is easily distracted and will abandon a scent if some other prey is spotted.

When Britain ruled India, these dogs served the army. During the Carnatic Wars and Polygar Wars, Rajapalayam were used to attack the British cavalry in battle.  Currently, they are used by the Indian army as guards along the Kashmir border, and tend to be rare in Indian homes.  “These dogs are essentially sight hounds. They see game and they go for it. But as hunting stopped, so did the use of such pets. Hence, they are a rarity now,” said Lochen Kharawala, President of the Indian National Kennel Club.

Purebred Rajapalayam are now said to be found in the remote villages of Tamil Nadu, and some estimate that there are only about 150 to 200 dogs left. To save the breed, the Kennel Club of India launched a “Save the Rajapalayam” project, and established a breeding center in Saidapet, Chennai in 1980-81.  To raise awareness, the Indian Post launched a postage stamp which you see above.