Native to Malaysia, the Telomian is notable for being the only Malaysian dog known outside that Southeastern Asian country. Also, it is an extremely rare dog breed, with patronage coming from only the United States. The Orang Asli of Peninsular Malaysia are credited with originally breeding the dog. The people lived on huts on stilts, instead of the ground, to avoid the dangerous animals and insects that prefer to appear at night. Thus, the Orang Asli trained the Telomian to protect their huts from some of these harmful elements, which included rats and snakes. Also, with time, the dogs developed the rare ability of climbing the wooden ladders that ran from the ground to the doors of their owners’ huts: a distance of 6 to 8 feet (183 to 244 centimeters) Anthropologist Orville Elliot introduced the dog to the West in the early 1960s. Elliot named it after the Telom River in Pahang, which is the third largest state in Malaysia.
The Telomian is more than just a vermin hunter and skilled climber. It can also use its paws to do a variety of things: from holding objects to opening doors. These traits help in securing the Telomian’s reputation as a very intelligent and versatile dog breed. Also, it has a unique howling sound, which lead some cynologists to suggest that it may be the missing link between the African Basenji and the Australian dingo. Early socialization is encouraged after the age of four or five weeks; this helps the Telomian to become very friendly with other people, especially children.
Personality
Described as a small- to medium-sized dog with a sturdy square body, the Telomian stands at around 15 to 19 inches (38 to 48 cm) and weighs around 18 to 28 pounds (8 to 12 kilograms). Although comparatively small, the dog has an elongated back. The coat, which is short and smooth, is usually black-and-white, black-and-tan or fawn-and-white. Dogs with larger color patches are better valued. Some Telomians have black masks, which are common on pugs. Another dog that the Telomian shares a physical characteristic is the chow chow, which has a blue tongue.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 – 14 years |
| Nicknames: | Malaysian Telemonian |
Telomian Build Information
The Telomian is more than just a vermin hunter and skilled climber. It can also use its paws to do a variety of things: from holding objects to opening doors. These traits help in securing the Telomian’s reputation as a very intelligent and versatile dog breed. Also, it has a unique howling sound, which lead some cynologists to suggest that it may be the missing link between the African Basenji and the Australian dingo. Early socialization is encouraged after the age of four or five weeks; this helps the Telomian to become very friendly with other people, especially children.
| Size: | Small – Medium |
Behaviour and Personality
Described as a small- to medium-sized dog with a sturdy square body, the Telomian stands at around 15 to 19 inches (38 to 48 cm) and weighs around 18 to 28 pounds (8 to 12 kilograms). Although comparatively small, the dog has an elongated back. The coat, which is short and smooth, is usually black-and-white, black-and-tan or fawn-and-white. Dogs with larger color patches are better valued. Some Telomians have black masks, which are common on pugs. Another dog that the Telomian shares a physical characteristic is the chow chow, which has a blue tongue.
| Activity Level: | Very active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Very kid friendly |
Appearance
Since the Telomian has a short-haired coat, significant grooming is not necessary. However, a brushing or combing once in a while is recommended for loosening dead hairs. Also, the dog can be cleaned or given a bath if filthy.
| Shedding: | Moderate |
| Grooming: | Low maintenance |
Telomian Common Health Conditions
Due to its rarity, little to nothing is known about the Telomian’s health history. There doesn’t seem to be any common health issues associated with the dog breed, and life expectancy is virtually unknown.
Telomian Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
Get a Free Pet Insurance Quote
Breed Talents and Facts
The Telomian is also known as the Malaysian Telemonian to emphasize the geographic origin of the dog breed. The first Telomian dog club was established in 1970. Today’s Telomians in the West are descendants of two pairs of dogs that were brought over to the US in 1963 and 1973.
| Training: | Easy to train |
