Most countries in the world have a dog breed considered to be indigenous, many of them officially recognized by established dog registries. Until recently, however, the Philippines was not among them. This isn’t to say there aren’t dogs in the country. Indeed, there are over twelve million “asktals” in the Philippines, a Tagalog-derived blended name (or portmanteau) of asong kalye, which literally means “street dog.”
- Sharp claws, more catlike than dog, which are regularly shed (see photos here)
- Genitals less than half the diameter of most domestic dogs
- Disinterest in breeding with any other dog other than its own kind
- Double-sealing anus
The dogs are so special that it is part of ancient lore. Anyone who hurts one of these dogs will be cursed. Anyone who kills one brings a curse upon their entire
family.
The dogs typically have dark brown, brindle coats, often with spots or patterns running down their back leading to another breed nickname, “Tiger Dog.” In the wild, the dog has an unerring prey drive, and some say the wild has never been truly removed from the breed. These dogs do not shy down from other animals and have been known to hunt and kill cobras. Indeed, the dogs were used by indigenous people to hunt iguanas:
Photo by NPDD
According to Tom Asmus, a Philippine indigenous dog researcher, these dogs can survive independently in the jungle, and are difficult to raise at home. That said, Philippine Forest Dogs were showcased on January 14, 2023 at the Philippine Circuit 2023. Check out the video below of that entry:
You can also see the breed’s famous climbing abilities in the video below:
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If it hasn’t already, the Philippine Canine Club, Inc. is petitioning the FCI to recognize the Philippine Forest Dogs as the country’s national breed.
Everyone needs a breed they can call their own, as we see it, and we wish the club the best of success.
Our thumbnail image from Adobe Stock Photos is by rdv27