The Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound (Bankhar) is an ancient breed developed in Russia. This is confirmed by archaeological excavations in the Ivolginsky District of the Republic of Buryatia. These excavations have established the breed's approximate age at approximately 3,000 years.
The breed disappeared completely in the early 20th century, but cynologists Marika Teregulova and Nikolai Batov reconstructed the Buryat-Mongolian wolfhound's appearance and revived it. These shepherds have long been used to guard livestock and farmsteads, in combat, and for hunting. Today, they also make excellent rescue dogs and companions.
In combat, wolfhounds use a technique similar to that used by lions: when attacking, they rush at the enemy's face, cover the nose and mouth, and thus strangle the enemy.
The Buryats call this dog "khotosho" (khotoche), which means "yard wolf" or "pen guard".
A nursery has been established in the Ivolginsky Datsan to breed and restore this breed.
The Buryat-Mongolian Wolfhound is a large dog, reaching 75 cm at the withers and weighing up to 80 kg. Its body is compact and muscular, with a broad chest and a tucked-up belly.
She has a large head and very powerful jaws.
The coat is usually black with red tan markings. It can be long or medium. Black and white, red, and, rarely, wolf-colored coats are also found.
These are strong, balanced dogs, very devoted to their owner, they never attack first, but if necessary, they can decide to attack on their own.
Buryat-Mongolian wolfhounds are very sociable, playful, highly intelligent, trainable, and have excellent memory.
They are good with children and neutral or friendly towards animals living in their territory.
Strangers are greeted with caution.
Bankhars are not picky eaters. They will do well on both dry and natural food.
Bankhars, like all native breeds, are distinguished by robust health and, with good care, live up to 15 years.
This breed isn't designed for apartment living; it's best suited for owners of truly large houses and properties. Thanks to its warm undercoat and water-repellent fur, it can live outdoors in a comfortable enclosure or warm kennel. However, it should be allowed out for a free range several times a day. If you enjoy long walks through the woods, a Mongolian Shepherd will be an excellent companion.
