Mahratta Hound

Also called Mahratta Greyhound

Described mainly through its work: a brave and determined hunting companion developed for coursing game.

Size	Medium
Coat	Short
Origin	India, the Maharashtra region.1

Rare breedShort profile

bold, capable hunter

fast sighthound build

hardy working dog

Personality what they are like

Described mainly through its work: a brave and determined hunting companion developed for coursing game.1

Coat and looks how to spot one

short

A lean, medium-sized sighthound of greyhound type, standing around 56 cm at the shoulder.1

Coloursblue and tan (commonly seen)1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Mahratta Hound. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Brushingevery week
Bathevery 8 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 8every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working sighthound bred for chasing game, so it would need plenty of running and daily exercise.1

The story where it all began

The Mahratta Hound is a traditional sighthound of Maharashtra, said to carry Arabian or Persian sighthound ancestry. It was kept and developed by the nomadic Banjara people and used for hunting.1

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
It was valued for hunting remarkably large and challenging quarry, including boar, panthers and blackbuck antelope.1
2
Its development is credited to the nomadic Banjara people of Maharashtra.1
3
Blue and tan is a commonly seen colouring in the type.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The Mahratta Hound is named after the Maratha Empire, a powerful Indian kingdom that used these dogs for hunting. The breed is also known as the Mahratta Greyhound.2

Name ideas for your new friend

RajaChandaVeerKaliBholaMotiArjunIndraTaraNoorRaniKiran

A day in the life told by a Mahratta Hound

Every morning, I stretch my long legs and wait by the gate for my human to pick up the leash. We run through the fields, and I feel the wind in my ears as I chase a rabbit's shadow. My heart beats fast, but I always come back when called. In the afternoon, I nap in the sun, dreaming of the chase. At dusk, we walk to the village, and I greet everyone with a wagging tail. They say I'm brave, but really I'm just happy to be by their side.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Major kennel clubs: Not recognised by any major kennel club; a traditional Indian landrace sighthound.1

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Mahratta Hound, and at what times?

Feed your adult Mahratta Hound at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent times like morning and evening work well. Always follow the food label and your vet's advice for the right amounts.3

What should a Mahratta Hound eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality dog food suited for active sighthounds is a great choice. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as these are especially harmful to dogs. Check with your vet for a complete list of safe foods.4

How often should I bathe a Mahratta Hound?

Bathe your Mahratta Hound about every two months, or at least every three months as a general rule. You can bathe more often if they get very dirty or spend a lot of time outdoors.5 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Mahratta Hound need brushing?

Brush your Mahratta Hound weekly to keep its short coat healthy and remove loose hair. This routine helps maintain a clean and shiny coat.5 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Mahratta Hound's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time and stop before the quick to avoid bleeding.5 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Mahratta Hound need?

This breed needs plenty of daily exercise, including running in a safe area. Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests daily walks and play to keep them happy and healthy.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Mahratta Hound's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth at least twice a week, ideally daily, using dog toothpaste. Check ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears can trap moisture. Never push anything into the ear canal.5 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Mahratta Hound live?

The lifespan of a Mahratta Hound is not specified in our sources. Please consult your vet or a reputable breeder for an estimate.

Is a Mahratta Hound good with children and other pets?

This breed was developed as a hunting companion, so its temperament with children and other pets can vary. Early socialisation and training are important; ask a breeder or vet for guidance.1

Can a Mahratta Hound be left alone?

As an active sighthound, the Mahratta Hound may not enjoy long periods alone. It's best to ask a breeder or vet about its tolerance for being left alone.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.