CHANDIGARH: A shepherd leads his flock of sheep and goats to greener pastures in the remote highlands of Pir Panjal range in Jammu and Kashmir. Beside him trots his loyal Gaddi dog ‘Bhola’. With a shoulder height of around 28 inches and a sturdy weight of about 40kg, the furry friend is a powerful presence, his thick, weather-resistant coat protecting him against the harsh mountain cold.
As the flock ascends the steep, rocky trails, Bhola remains vigilant – his sharp eyes scanning the dense forest edges for any signs of wild predators such as leopards or wolves. Later in the afternoon, a distant growl echoes. Instantly, Bhola’s posture shifts. He stands tall, muscles tensed, ready to confront any threat. A wolf appears at the ridge. Bhola barks – his deep, commanding voice carrying across the mountains. The wolf retreats. As the sun sets, the flock settles down for the night, with Bhola standing guard, ensuring the safety of his charges in the heart of the rugged Himalayas.
Bhola’s loyalty to his owner and the flock is unwavering, embodying the very traits that make the Gaddi dog an essential part of the shepherding tradition in the Himalayas.
The Gaddi dog is now officially recognised as a registered breed by National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR). This recognition makes the dog the fourth indigenous canine breed to be registered, following the Rajapalayam and Chippiparai from Tamil Nadu and the Mudhol from Karnataka. The recognition follows years of scientific study and a formal application process initiated by Himachal’s department of animal husbandry in Dec 2022. The NBAGR team conducted extensive evaluations and engaged with local shepherds to understand the breed better.
