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Vikhan
Guardian breed from Punjab and Chitral regions (Pakistan)
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Vikhan
The Vikhan is a large, rare landrace dog from the mountainous regions of Punjab and Chitral in Pakistan. It is classified in the Guardian breed group. The breed's wiry coat and athletic build reflect its heritage as a dog used for both hunting and livestock protection. Vikhan dogs are described as alert, courageous, independent, protective, and loyal. However, individual temperaments can vary. Estimated adult weight ranges from 25 to 35 kg for both sexes, with height estimated between 56 and 69 cm. Lifespan is estimated at 10 to 12 years. The breed is not recognized by major international kennel clubs, and recognition status varies by registry.
Quick facts
Vikhan at a glance
Sizelarge
Breed groupGuardian
OriginPunjab and Chitral regions (Pakistan)
Lifespan10–12 years
Male weight25–35 kilogram
Female weight25–35 kilogram
Male height56–69 centimetre
Female height56–69 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Vikhan is an ancient landrace dog originating from Pakistan's mountainous regions, specifically the Punjab and Chitral areas. It was developed by local tribes for hunting, livestock protection, and companionship. The breed was valued for its speed, resilience in harsh terrain, and ability to guard against predators such as wolves and leopards. Because it is a landrace, its history is closely tied to the needs of the people in these regions rather than formal breeding programs. Today, the Vikhan remains rare and is not currently recognized by major international kennel clubs. It lacks formal breed standards, and its recognition status varies by registry. The breed's origins and traditional roles are documented, but much of its history is based on oral tradition and limited written records. As a result, some details about its development and historical use remain uncertain.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
25–35 kilogramAdult weight56–69 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesWiryCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Alertcourageousindependentprotectiveloyal
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Lower shedding tendency
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Vikhan-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Vikhan puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight25–35 kilogramAdult female weight25–35 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Vikhan?
The Vikhan is a large breed. Estimated adult weight for both males and females is 25 to 35 kg, and height is estimated at 56 to 69 cm. Lifespan is estimated at 10 to 12 years. These figures are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Vikhan?
Vikhan dogs are described as alert, courageous, independent, protective, and loyal. However, individual dogs may vary. They were traditionally used for guarding and hunting, so they may be wary of strangers and have strong protective instincts.
How much exercise does a Vikhan need?
The Vikhan has an energy score of 4 out of 5, indicating a high energy level. They likely require regular, vigorous exercise. However, specific exercise needs can vary by individual.
What are the grooming requirements for a Vikhan?
The Vikhan has a wiry coat and a grooming score of 2 out of 5, suggesting low to moderate grooming needs. Shedding is also low (score 2). Regular brushing may be sufficient, but specific care depends on the individual coat.
Is a Vikhan suitable for apartment living?
The Vikhan has an apartment suitability score of 2 out of 5, indicating it is not well-suited for apartment living. This large, high-energy breed likely needs space to roam and may be better suited to a home with a yard.
Is the Vikhan good with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is scored 3 out of 5, suggesting moderate compatibility, but individual dogs may vary. Dog compatibility is scored 2 out of 5, indicating lower tolerance for other dogs. Early socialization and training are important.
Where does the Vikhan originate from?
The Vikhan originates from the Punjab and Chitral regions of Pakistan. It is an ancient landrace dog developed by local tribes for hunting, livestock protection, and companionship.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.