The world’s beloved canine friends are not only known for their companionship but also for their bravery and a natural instinct to protect their masters. Dogs hold a special place in Indian history and commemorative stamps have been issued featuring some of the most loved Indian breeds.

The Himalayan Sheepdog
This livestock guardian dog which has its origins in Nepal, is also referred as the Bhote Kukur and closely similar to Indian Mastiff and the Tibetan Mastiff. They may be related to the long-haired Kinnaur as well. Naturally, Himalayan Sheepdogs enjoy outdoor lifestyles and are rarely seen beyond the regions of India and Nepal. The Himalayan Sheepdog is strong and robust which is why it is regionally popular as both a loyal companion as well as a herding dog. Because of its stubborn nature, training this breed may be difficult. They also are ferocious with strangers at the same time loyal to their owners making them faithful companions. The side profile of this beauty features on one of the four special stamps of India issued in 2005.

The Rampur hound
Native to the Rampur region of Northern India, the Rampur hound is a member of the sight-hound family. The Maharajas used them not only for jackal control but also to hunt lions, tigers, leopards, and panthers. It is so ferocious and brave that it can singlehandedly take down a golden jackal. The Rampur hound has tremendous stamina and can cover great distances at lightning speed. Though it might look lazy at times, they can charge up whenever required. It is extremely faithful and a good guard-dog. They are also known for knocking even their owners down with their excitement. One of the 4 stamps of India respects this faithful dog.

The Mudhol Hound
The Mudhol Hound, also known as Caravan Hound, is an Indian breed of dog of the sight hound type. The feathered variety is commonly referred to as a Pashmi. It is a common companion amongst village folk in India's Deccan Plateau, who use the dog for hunting and guarding. These dogs are very hardworking, productive and consistent on the field even in harsh conditions. They are extremely loyal if you are kind to them but are not very friendly and do not liked to be touched by strangers. If you don’t treat them well they might develop a nervous or vicious nature, either of which are difficult to deal with. The four stamps of India that were specially issued, portrays an image of this dog.

The Rajapalayam
Mostly used for hunting wild boars, the Rajapalayam is another Indian breed formidable guard dog. They are sight hounds by nature but it can also be a Scent hound with a little training. They don’t like to be handled by strangers and are hostile towards them. Although not demonstratives on most times, it is very affectionate towards its owner. Socialization in puppyhood is important. The most prized colour is milk white, with a pink nose and golden eyes. However, other colours including spotted or solid, black, and brown, are known to occur. An extremely handsome and graceful dog, the Rajapalayam has a gait similar to the trotting of a thoroughbred horse. Rajapalayam hounds were primarily used by Nayakar dynasty of Tamil Nadu. These dogs were also used during the Carnatic Wars and Polygar War to attack the British cavalry. This breed with a historic significance is featured on one of the 4 Indian stamps that were issued in 2005.