The Alaunt is a very rare breed of dog indeed, being close to extinction. This ancient breed of dog has been used as a livestock guard and hunter for many thousands of years. It is believed that the Alaunt is one of the earliest breeds of dogs and that its characteristics have been passed down to many modern breeds of dog today. The Alaunt is thought by some to be the breed from which all bulldogs descended.
The Alaunt was developed by nomadic tribes, the earliest record dating to around 370AD around the areas now known as India and Iran. There were several strains of Alaunts developed, some were bred for their strength and alertness to use as guard dogs, others for their ability to herd and protect domestic animals such as sheep.
The breed spread across Europe and influenced the development of many of the breeds of modern dogs we know today. In some places the term Alaunt refers to a particular kind of working dog, rather than a specific breed.
The Alaunt was bred in Spain from around 1500. As Spanish explored sailed to the new world, there were Alaunts who accompanied them, spreading the breed further across the world.
In France too the Alaunt has been a popular dog. The Alaunt is divided into three separate strains of dog. The Alaunt Gentil was a lighter framed dog with a similar build to the greyhound, this dog was used for hunting. The Alaunt de Boucherie was a fighting breed often used in bull fights. Alaunt Veantre was a hunting dog built for endurance.
Many kennel clubs around the world no longer recognise the Alaunt as a breed and categorise it as extinct, however there are small numbers of Alaunts still.
Appearance
The Alaunt it tall and strong, it has a broad, flat head and is stocky across the head and shoulders. The limbs are long, allowing for speed. The Alaunt has a short and coarse coat.
Temperament
The Alaunt is somewhat of a gentle giant. Alaunts are known to be strong and fierce when their territory has been breached by a stranger, they can also be very loving towards their family. They are an intelligent breed of dog and will do well in training, in particular herding.
Working and Tasks
Historically, the Alaunt was used most often as a sheep dog. Over the years the Alaunt has been put to work at many tasks. Originally a guard dog and protector, in recent times the Alaunt has been bred with other dogs to create dogs who specialise in game hunting. The Alaunt has also been used as a war dog.
In Spain, the Alaunt was used as a bull baiting dog. In France and England the dog was used as both a game dog and a guard dog. Currently in Britain there is a breeding program in place to boost the numbers of the Alaunt and help save it from extinction.
Health
The Alaunt requires only a small amount of grooming as its coat is quite short. There is little record of health problems due to the small number of Alaunts.