Mahratta Greyhound
The Mahratta Greyhound is a sighthound breed from the Maratha Empire region of Maharashtra — used by the Maratha warrior aristocracy for coursing game across the open Deccan plateau.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons
Origin
India
Lifespan
12–14 years
Weight
18–27 kg (40–60 lbs)
Height
58–72 cm (23–28 in)
Diet
Obligate carnivore tendency — high-protein diet. Traditional Maratha diet included meat and grain.
Taxonomic Hierarchy
Kingdom
Animalia
Phylum
Chordata
Class
Mammalia
Order
Carnivora
Family
Canidae
Genus
Canis
The Story
The Mahratta Greyhound is a sighthound breed from the Maratha Empire region of Maharashtra — used by the Maratha warrior aristocracy for coursing game across the open Deccan plateau. The breed bears historical connections to the Maratha Empire's military culture, where fast dogs were prized for hunting and as symbols of the warrior class. Like the Rampur Greyhound of North India, the Mahratta Greyhound developed under royal patronage. It is now rare and at risk of being lost as traditional hunting and courtly practices have ended.
Also Known As
Quick Facts
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Physical Profile
Source: wikimedia
A tall, lean, elegant sighthound similar in build to the Mudhol Hound and Rampur Greyhound — deep-chested, long-legged, and built for speed across open terrain. The coat is short and fine. The build is slightly more muscular than the refined Chippiparai — reflecting the open Deccan plateau terrain and the type of game it was bred to course.
Grooming
Low
Shedding
Low
Coat Colors
Recognized By
Source: wikimedia
Temperament & Personality
Loyal, independent, and aloof — a classic sighthound temperament. Bonds with its owner but reserved with all others. Strong prey drive. Sensitive and responsive to gentle training.
Living Profile
Care & Wellness
Professional Care Protocol
- •2+ hours free running daily. Sighthound anaesthetic sensitivity — inform vet. Low grooming needs. Warm climate suited.
Vaccination Schedule
Vaccination Schedule
Health Overview
Generally healthy due to natural development. Sighthound anaesthetic sensitivity critical. Hip dysplasia can occur. Tick-borne disease prevention important in Maharashtra.
Common Conditions
Fun Facts
The Mahratta Greyhound was reportedly used by Shivaji Maharaj's cavalry forces — fast dogs capable of keeping pace with horses were used to flush game during royal hunts that also served as military exercises.
Like all Indian sighthounds, the Mahratta Greyhound has a very low body fat percentage — this is the primary reason for the breed's sensitivity to standard anaesthetic doses, which are calculated for breeds with higher fat content.
