Indie Dog Breed Information - All You Need to Know

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Meet the Indie !

Naturally Smart. Endlessly Loyal. Totally Indie

India’s very own native street dog, the Indie (also known as Desi or Pariah Dog), is a hardy, intelligent, and loving breed. Adaptable to both city life and rural settings, Indie dogs are known for their loyalty, low-maintenance care, and incredible survival instincts. With the right love and care, they make some of the best family companions.

At a Glance

Size

Medium

Shedding

Moderate

Life Expectancy

12–16 years

Coat Type

Short to medium, low-maintenance

Temperament

Alert, loyal, intelligent, independent

Weight

15-30kg

Weather Tolerance

Excellent — thrives in Indian climates

Suitable For

Families, singles, apartments, active lifestyles

Nutrition

Grooming

Training

Puppy Care

Lifestyle

Vet Care

Indie Dog Nutrition

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What to Look For

High-quality protein (chicken, lamb, fish)
Healthy fats for skin and energy
Digestible carbs like rice and vegetables
Essential vitamins and minerals
Easily digestible kibble if feeding dry food

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Feeding Guidelines

Age	Daily Quantity	Meals per Day	Feeding Tips
Puppy (2–6 months)	½–1 cup dry food	3–4	Start with small-breed puppy food; monitor growth and digestion
Puppy (6–12 months)	1–1.5 cups dry food	2–3	Gradually transition to adult formula
Adult (1–7 years)	1.5–2.5 cups dry food	2	Mix with wet food or home-cooked meals if preferred
Senior (7+ years)	1–2 cups dry food	2	Opt for senior diet with joint and immune support

Note: Always provide fresh water and consult a vet for custom meal plans, especially for rescued dogs or those with special needs.

Indie Dog Grooming

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Coat Maintenance

Brush once or twice a week to remove loose hair
Use soft brushes or grooming gloves

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Routine Hygiene

Bath once every 4–6 weeks or when needed
Clean ears weekly to avoid buildup
Trim nails every 3–4 weeks
Brush teeth 2–3 times a week

Training & Exercise

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Why Training Matters

Builds trust, especially in rescued Indies
Helps socialize them into household routines
Reduces anxiety or fear-based behavior

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Essentials to Include

Early training and socialization are crucial
Use rewards, praise, and consistency
Teach basic commands and leash manners
Introduce new environments gradually

Puppy Care – Bringing an Indie Home

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Puppy Prep

Puppy-proof your home
Create a cozy den or crate for rest
Provide chew toys and soft bedding

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First Weeks at Home

Schedule initial vet check and vaccinations
Begin parasite control (ticks, fleas, worms)
Start socialization and basic training
Stick to regular feeding and sleeping routine

Indie Dog Lifestyle

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Daily Life Must-Haves

Daily walks and free play to expend energy
Enrichment games and chew toys
Social interaction — they bond deeply with their humans

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Ideal Living Setup

Thrive in both apartments and houses
Need daily walks and occasional off-leash play in secure areas
Extremely adaptable to Indian weather — both hot and cool

Accessories & Essentials

Durable collar and leash
Orthopedic bedding or mat for rest
Cooling mat for summers, light clothing in winters if needed

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Vet Care for Indie Dog Health

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Key Health Practices

Routine vaccinations and deworming
Year-round tick/flea protection
Annual checkups, especially in early and senior years

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Common Health Concerns

Skin infections (especially in humid areas)
Tick-borne diseases
Joint issues in older dogs
Gastrointestinal sensitivities in early rescue phase

Vet Tips

Monitor for signs of allergies or infections
Use vet-recommended food and supplements
Keep up with dental hygiene and parasite control

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Fun Trivia: Did You Know?

Indie dogs are one of the oldest known dog breeds native to the Indian subcontinent.
Known for their high intelligence and survival instinct, many Indies have served in police and military roles.
They’re often referred to as “Desi Dogs,” “Pariah Dogs,” or just “Street Dogs,” but they are a true breed of their own.
Many Indie dogs have gained fame as social media stars and therapy pets.