Thai Bangkaew Dog Breed

  • Other names:
  • Tbd
  • Bangkaew
Overview

The Thai Bangkaew Dog is a medium size, Spitz type companion dog that originated in Thailand. Its ancestors are believed to be a native Thai domestic dog and the now extinct Asiatic wild jackal, which were crossed over 100 years ago. These are intelligent dogs though some may be stubborn and difficult to train; owners who are weak willed or lazy might find this breed a challenge, but for those with the energy and the confidence this dog is not only an excellent family pet but is also an adept hunter.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Breed Details

Breed Specs
TypeLifespanHeightWeight
Purebred12-14 yrs.16-22 in.35-45 lbs
  • Friendliness
  • Overall
  • Family Friendly
  • Kid Friendly
  • Pet Friendly
  • Stranger Friendly
  • Maintenance
  • Easy to Groom
  • Energy Level
  • Exercise Needs
  • General Health
  • Shedding Amount
  • Behavior
  • Barks / Howls
  • Easy to Train
  • Guard Dog
  • Playfulness
  • Watch Dog
  • Ownership
  • Apartment Friendly
  • Can Be Alone
  • Good for Busy Owners
  • Good for Novice Owners
  • Intelligence
* The more green the stronger the trait.

Below are the details and specs for the Bangkaew:

Thai Bangkaew Dog Breed Description

These are considered medium size dogs. Adult males will reach a height of 18-22 inches and a weight of 40-45 lbs. Females will reach a height of 16-20 inches and weigh between 35-40 lbs. They carry themselves proudly and confidently and make for great guard dogs.

This dog is fiercely intelligent and loyal though it may be a handful for inexperienced owners. It will be a great friend to its family but may be wary of strangers and aggressive towards other dogs.

This is a low to medium maintenance breed. The double coat is very resilient and will need grooming once or twice a week. It is an energetic breed and will require ample exercise to keep it mentally and physically stimulated.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Breed History

This breed's origin is in a village called Bangkaew in the central region of Thailand. In this village there is a monastery where it is said that the Thai Bangkaew breed originated about 100 years ago. Legend has it that a respected abbot of the Bangkaew Temple named Luang Puh Maak Metharee, who was known for his fondness for all living things, was given a native female dog. Seeing that the dog was pregnant, and knowing of no other dog in the area, her mate was thought to be either a jackal or a dhole. A contemporary study of the Thai Bangkaew dog confirmed that the breed is in fact the result of a domestic dog and jackal interbreeding. Luang Puh Maak Metharee raised the dog's puppies, and so began the famous Thai Bangkaew Dog, which has since been a popular companion amongst the Thai people. These dogs are very rare outside Thailand and may be difficult to acquire if you are from another country.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Appearance

The Thai Bangkaew Dog is a Spitz type dog with a long, soft double coat. The coat is rather long around the body and even longer around the neck and shoulders, giving it a lion mane sort of appearance. The length is shorter on its head and the front of its legs. Its body is square in profile and its head is square with two pointed ears carried perked up on its head. The neck and chest is strong and muscular. The tail is furry and plumed, carried above the body with a slight forward curve.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Coloring

The predominant color for this breed is white which is typically paired with another color in a variety of patterns. Some of the most common combinations are being gray & white, red & white, black & white, white & tan, and brown & white.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Size

Adult males will reach a height of 18-22 inches and a weight of 40-45 lbs. Females will reach a height of 16-20 inches and weigh between 35-40 lbs.

Average Adult Height

16-22 in
*Height is measured in inches from the front paws to the top of the shoulder while the dog is standing on all four legs.

Average Adult Weight

35-45 lbs

Thai Bangkaew Dog Temperament

The Thai Bangkaew is commonly described as active, devoted, watchful, agile, and intelligent. It has long been a companion dog, and should do well with kids in a family setting. These dogs are alert and protective and it should be no surprise if your Bangkaew Dog barks at strangers approaching the family or home. This trait makes them effortless watch dogs. They are very intelligent but can be stubborn during training. This breed is not easy to train, and should probably be avoided by inexperienced or weak owners. The Thai Bangkaew Dog needs a strong and confident owner who can earn the dog's respect. It has been known to show aggressive behavior towards other dogs. In order to avoid this behavior socialization must start at a very young age in order to mold it into a calm and obedient family pet.

Thai Bangkaew Dog and Children

This breed is protective toward and affectionate with its family. It gets along well with children and will provide a playful and watchful companion.

Thai Bangkaew Dog and Other Pets

The Thai Bangkaew Dog is known to be aggressive towards other dogs. Be careful when taking this breed to the dog park, especially if it is a male. These dogs should be good with other non-canine pets as long as socialization occurs at a young age.

Thai Bangkaew Dog and Strangers

The Thai Bangkaew Dog is not inherently aggressive towards strangers but it is not exactly welcoming either. It can be very territorial and protective and will likely bark if it sees someone unfamiliar approaching. However, this does make it a great watchdog.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Photos

Below are pictures of the Thai Bangkaew Dog dog breed.

Thai Bangkaew Dog
White And Red Thai Bangkaew Dog

Thai Bangkaew Dog Maintenance

This breed's double coat is low maintenance and will only need a weekly brushing to keep its sheen intact. The dog is energetic and must be provided with plenty of exercise and playing time to keep it fit and healthy. An under-exercised Bangkaew Dog may become destructive and start to dig or chew at will.

Grooming Requirements

As far as grooming goes, this dog doesn't need much. Brushing once or twice a week and an occasional bath should be all that is necessary.

Exercise Requirements

This is an energetic breed and it must be exercised daily in order to maintain its health and sanity. A brisk walk or jog along with some playtime should be satisfactory.

Living Requirements

This breed has high energy levels and should probably not be kept in an apartment, especially if the owner will not be present much of the day. A house with a fenced yard (to prevent it from chasing other dogs) will suit this breed best.

Temperature Range

Bangkaews hail from Thailand, which is known for being humid and warm-very hot (tropical). Although these dogs are rare to acquire outside Thailand, they likely will do fine anywhere that is not very cold and dry.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Health

These dogs are considered a healthy breed and they have no known hereditary disorders. A properly exercised Bangkaew dog should live 12-14 years.

Thai Bangkaew Dog Breed Recognition

The following dog breed registries and organizations recognize the Thai Bangkaew Dog as a dog breed:

  • Dog Registry of America Inc.