Calupoh
The Calupoh is a large, noble dog with wolf-like characteristics. This breed makes an excellent companion for families and adventure seekers.
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Calupoh Traits
General Appearance
The Calupoh has many wolf-like traits, including a powerful head and skull, a strong neck, and a thick mane. This large breed is agile, balanced, and powerful.
Coat and Coloring
This breed has a medium-length, weather-resistant double coat that's rough on the outside with a soft inner layer. Their coats are primarily black or smoky black, though some turn silver in adulthood. White spots on the chest and feet are permitted in the breed standard.
Distinctive Physical Traits
Notable traits of the Calupoh include yellow or orange eyes, large, erect ears, and an elegant but strong body.
Calupoh Temperament
Calupohs are noble dogs known for their loyalty and stable personality. They are tolerant dogs that are well-suited for family life and are particularly good around kids. They typically get along well with other dogs, though they may be shy around strangers.
Calupoh History
The modern recreation of the Calupoh began in the mid-90’s, inspired by the ancient “loberro,” or Mexican wolfdog. Remains of at least 70 loberros dating from 100 BC - 1500 AD have been found and studied by archaeozoologists. These dogs were concentrated in temples, caves and burials in central Mexico, suggesting they were the second most common “breed” at that time.
In the pre-Hispanic culture of Teotihuacan, as well as later cultures, dogs were purposefully hybridized with wolves to create revered animals bearing the dual spiritual significance of the wolf as a symbol of war, night, the underworld and power, and the dog, a symbol of rain, agriculture, good fortune and fertility. These hybrids were used as special sacrifices in rituals to communicate with the gods, as symbols and gifts of the elite, and as emblems of protection by warriors. Appropriately, the modern Calupoh was chosen to be primarily black in color, as early domestic dogs are thought to be the source of this coloration in wolves. The Calupoh is a symbol and celebration of ancient Mexican cultures’ esteem for these wolfdog hybrids.
In 1999, the Federación Canófila Mexicana recognized the Calupoh as the third Mexican dog breed (after the Chihuahua and Xoloitzcuintli).
Calupoh Care
Nutrition
The Calupoh does well on high-quality dog food formulated for their age, size, and activity level. In particular, puppies may benefit from a large-breed growth diet. These specially formulated diets help prevent large breed dogs from growing too fast, which may decrease the likelihood or severity of hip dysplasia as they age.
To help Calupohs maintain a healthy weight, measure their meals to avoid overfeeding and keep treats to 10% or less of their daily calories.
Grooming
The Calupoh's double coat requires frequent brushing to remove loose hair and keep it looking its best. During seasonal shedding, daily brushing will help keep the fur tumbleweeds at bay.
Additionally, regular ear checks, nail trims, and dental care should be part of their grooming routine.
Exercise
The Calupoh is always up for adventure. Daily brisk walks, long hikes, and dog sports are great outlets for their energy.
Training
These pups are always eager to please their people and respond well to consistent training using positive reinforcement techniques.
In addition to obedience training, all breeds benefit from early socialization. Helping them feel comfortable with different people and environments when they're young will help them grow into well-adjusted adult dogs.
Breed Group
Herding
The herding group is a diverse category. These highly intelligent breeds were developed to guard and control the movement of livestock.
Resources
https://www.arba.org/PDF%20Files/Group1/calupoh.pdf
Reviewed July 11, 2023 by Casey Knox, DVM
