Explained: Potentially tasked with protecting the PM, what are Karnataka’s Mudhol hounds?

Source: The post is based on the article “Explained: Potentially tasked with protecting the PM, what are Karnataka’s Mudhol hounds?” published in Indian Express on 18th August 2022.

What is the News?

Mudhol hounds, a breed of hunting dogs native to north Karnataka, could be inducted into the Special Protection Group(SPG), the elite force protecting the Prime Minister of India.

What are Mudhol Hounds? 

Mudhol Hound also known variously as the Maratha Hound, the Pashmi Hound, the Kathewar Dog and the Caravan Hound is a breed of sighthound (a type of dog) from India.

Named after: It is named after the erstwhile princely state of Mudhol.

History: The Mudhol hounds are believed to have been bred first by Raja Malojirao Ghorpade of the erstwhile Deccan kingdom of Mudhol.

– The Raja is said to have presented a couple of these dogs to King George V on a visit to England, whereafter the breed got the name of Mudhol hound.

Features: These dogs have athletic legs, an elongated skull and a 270-degree vision and a sharp sense of smell. They are also swift runners and come with great stamina. Hence, they are ideal for hunting, guarding, and surveillance.

Indian Army commissioning: In 2016, the Indian Army took a batch of Mudhol Hounds into its Remount and Veterinary Corps training centre in Meerut for their specific qualities. 

– This was the first time that the centre — with a long history of training foreign breeds such as German Shepherds and Labradors — trained an indigenous breed for possible induction into Army service.