Rampur and Mudhol Hounds Join BSF to Guard Borders

The Border Security Force (BSF) has started training 150 dogs from two Indian breeds - the Rampur Hound and the Mudhol Hound, to strengthen its canine squad for border guarding, counterinsurgency operations, and special tasks.

This initiative marks a major step in the use of India’s indigenous dog breeds in national security roles. The Mudhol Hound has previously served with the Indian Army and other paramilitary forces, while this is one of the first large-scale deployments of Rampur Hounds for active duty.

The Mudhol Hound, known for its stamina, agility, and sharp sense of smell, originates from the town of Mudhol in Karnataka. The breed was first developed by Raja Malojirao Ghorpade, who refined dogs used by local tribal communities. The Mudhol’s speed and endurance make it ideal for fieldwork, though experts note that its performance can dip in extremely cold regions.

In 2016, the Indian Army’s Remount and Veterinary Corps began training Mudhol puppies for the first time, breaking its tradition of relying mainly on foreign breeds such as the Labrador and German Shepherd. Six of the eight dogs trained at that time were successfully deployed for evaluation in Kashmir-based units.

The Rampur Hound, also called the Rampur Greyhound, traces its history to the Nawab of Rampur in Uttar Pradesh. The breed was developed over 300 years ago through a cross between the Afghan Hound and the English Greyhound to combine speed, strength, and endurance.

Rampur Hounds are among the fastest sighthounds, capable of running at over 40 miles per hour. Historically used by royalty for hunting and guarding, they are known for their loyalty, alertness, and protective instincts. Though purebreds are now rare, conservation efforts are underway to preserve this native breed.

By including these two Indian breeds in its ranks, the BSF aims to reduce dependence on imported dogs and promote the use of local species suited to Indian terrains. The move also supports the government’s broader initiative to recognize and revive indigenous animals for national service.

Globally, military forces use a range of breeds for duties such as explosive detection, search and rescue, and patrol operations. The Belgian Malinois, German Shepherd, Labrador Retriever, Dutch Shepherd, and Bloodhound are among the most commonly deployed worldwide due to their agility, intelligence, and scenting abilities.

With Rampur and Mudhol Hounds now being trained for BSF operations, India is taking a proud step toward integrating native breeds into its security forces, showcasing their potential, resilience, and loyalty in protecting the nation.