Built to survive | Why 'Spotty' and 'Fluffy' are among SA's toughest dogs

Before becoming a common household pet in South Africa, the Africanis breed thrived alongside humans in some of the most challenging environments on the African continent. As August marks Africanis Month, it's an opportunity to appreciate a breed whose evolution was primarily driven by nature, rather than human intervention.

According to the SPCA, what sets the Africanis apart is that it's predominantly the product of natural selection, unlike many Western dog breeds that were deliberately bred to meet specific physical standards. The Africanis' adaptability is rooted in its history, which dates back thousands of years. The breed's lineage can be traced back to dogs depicted in ancient cave art and Egyptian murals.

Archaeological evidence also suggests that the first domesticated dogs in Africa were found in the Nile Delta, dating back to 4,700 BC.

Further south, remains of domesticated dogs appeared around the same period. In South Africa, the earliest recorded presence of domestic dogs dates back to 570 AD, discovered at Diamant farm in the Ellisras district near the Botswana border. By 650 AD, dogs had made their way to the lower Tugela Valley, and by 800 AD, they were documented at a Khoisan settlement at Cape St Francis. Over centuries, these dogs adapted to the African environment, developing physical and behavioral traits that enabled them to survive.

The Africanis is a medium-sized, slender, and well-muscled dog, known for its agility and speed. Its appearance can vary greatly, from a wide range of colors and markings to different ear positions, and even a ridge along its back. However, the SPCA emphasizes that these physical characteristics do not directly impact the dog's overall health or well-being. The breed's coat also adapts to seasonal changes, requiring minimal grooming.

Resilient and healthy, the Africanis has shown few medical issues throughout its history. Its robustness is a testament to its evolutionary journey in challenging environments, which equipped it with a natural resistance to parasites. While like all dogs, the Africanis still requires vaccinations, proper nutrition, and regular veterinary care, its physical endurance is just one aspect of its unique nature.

Beyond its physical attributes, the Africanis is highly intelligent and closely linked to the people and territories it inhabits. Its alertness makes it an excellent watchful companion, while its eagerness to please can make training a rewarding experience. The SPCA notes that Africanis dogs form strong bonds with their human families and are known for remaining close to their owners. These dogs will follow their owners on long walks without a leash and are obedient, demonstrating their loyalty and attachment.

In essence, the Africanis' story is one of adaptation, from ancient dogs captured in African art to animals that coexisted with communities across Southern Africa. The breed's ability to survive and thrive is a result of its capability, adaptability, and suitability to its environment.