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Polynesian Dog Information & Dog Breed Facts

Collection of all the general dog breed info about Polynesian Dog so you can get to know the breed more.

Group Extinct
Popularity Rank459
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OriginPolynesia flagPolynesia
Common Names & Aliases
What other names is a Polynesian Dog known by? Discover all traditional, regional and informal names used for this breed.
KuriMaori DogNew Zealand Indigenous DogNew Zealand Native DogPeropero
Breed Classification
What type of dog breed is a Polynesian Dog? Learn about its genetic classification and breeding category.
Purebred

Polynesian Dog Size and Weight

Size Classification
What size category is a Polynesian Dog? Learn how big the Polynesian Dog breed typically grows.
Medium
Weight Statistics
How much does a Polynesian Dog weigh? Discover typical weight ranges for adult males and females of the Polynesian Dog breed.
10-25 pounds (6-11kg)
Average Weight
What is the average weight of a Polynesian Dog?
17.5 pounds (8 kg)
Height
How tall is the Polynesian Dog? Polynesian Dog height:
8-15 inches (20-38 cm)
Average Height
What is the average height of a Polynesian Dog?
11.5 inches (29 cm)

Polynesian Dog Price and Availability

Price Range
How much does a Polynesian Dog puppy cost? Find current market prices and factors affecting Polynesian Dog costs.
Unavailable
Unfortunately the Polynesian Dog is an extinct dog breed, so there isn’t any available price range or breeder in the world for purchasing this breed.
Availability
How easy is it to get a Polynesian Dog? How many Polynesian Dog are there in the world?
Unavailable: This dog breed, unfortunately, is no longer available, it may even be extinct.

Polynesian Dog Trainability and Intelligence

Intelligence Rating
How intelligent is a Polynesian Dog? Discover the Polynesian Dog's intelligence ranking and learning capabilities.
Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one. Keep in mind that if you want to teach them any tricks, they understand and memorize new commands in 40-80 repetitions. Polynesian Dog obey the first command 30% of the time or better. So if you want to have a smart dog, you might have to reconsider your choice with this breed.

The Polynesian Dog ranks below average in the intelligence ranking of dogs.

Training Difficulty
How easy is it to train a Polynesian Dog? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's trainability and response to training methods.
Polynesian Dog dogs are quite easy to train. Sometimes they can be challenging, but if you're consistent in teaching new commands they will obey for sure.
Watchdog Rating
How good is a Polynesian Dog as a watchdog? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's alertness and guarding instincts.
Polynesian Dog dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Territorial Protection
Is a Polynesian Dog protective of its territory? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's guarding instincts and behavior.
Polynesian Dog dogs strongly protect their territory. This breed is a complete security guard, so you don't have to be afraid in case of danger.

Polynesian Dog Personality and Temperament

Personality Traits
What personality does a Polynesian Dog have? Learn about characteristic Polynesian Dog temperament and behavior traits.
HuntingLazy
Sensitivity Level
How sensitive are they? Polynesian Dog sensitivity:
Polynesian Dog dogs have an average emotional level and are not the most sensitive dog breed. Sometimes it's okay to change the daily routine, have guests and listen to loud music.

Some dogs handle moderate punishment very well, while others crumble apart at a dirty look. This breed is not affected emotionally by moderate punishment.

Affection Level
How affectionate are they? Is a Polynesian Dog a good family dog?
Average: Polynesian Dog dogs are average dogs regarding their affection level. Some breeds are forthcoming and friendly, while others are independent and don't bond too closely with their owners.
Social Needs
How much social interaction does the Kuri need? Polynesian Dog social needs:
Polynesian Dog dogs need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don't mind being left alone for a few hours either.
Impulse to Wander or Roam
How likely is the Polynesian Dog to run away? Does this breed explore or wander a lot? Does Polynesian Dog roam?
The wanderlust potential of the Polynesian Dog is strong enough to escape from home. They have a strong desire for exploring the world. Safer to walk them on a leash unless you teach them how to get back to you on command.
Prey Drive
Do this canine have a strong prey drive? Does Polynesian Dog have high prey drive?
Polynesian Dog dogs have a higher impulse to chase and catch something than other dog breeds. Cats or any other small animals might be in danger. It's a natural instinct, doesn't necessarily mean that Polynesian Dog dogs are aggressive. Better to keep this breed on a leash.

Polynesian Dog Activity and Playfulness

Barking Frequency
Does a Polynesian Dog bark a lot? Learn about typical Polynesian Dog vocalization patterns and triggers.
Low to Average: The Polynesian Dog rarely barks. This breed could be a good choice if you're looking for a quiet breed. They don't bark unless there is a good reason.

Top reasons for barking: protection, alarm, fear, boredom, attention-seeking, greeting, separation anxiety, compulsive barking.

Playful Nature
How playful is a Polynesian Dog? Understand the typical play drive and energy level of the Polynesian Dog breed.
Average: Polynesian Dogs, like any other dog breed, like playing. Sometimes they bark in excitement for playing, but they are not the most playful dog breed.
Apartment Adaptability
Can a Polynesian Dog live in an apartment? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's suitability for apartment living.
Apartment-friendly dog the Polynesian Dog breed. It is best if you have a small garden where it can occasionally go out to do its business, but this is not important at all. You can exercise him enough with a walk or two a day, so he's comfortable in an apartment.

Polynesian Dog Adaptability and Independence

Lifestyle Adaptability
How adaptable is a Polynesian Dog to lifestyle changes? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's flexibility to new situations.
Polynesian Dog dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments. They don't mind moving from one place to another with their owner.
Alone Time Tolerance
Can a Polynesian Dog be left alone? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's tolerance to solitude.
Just like every puppy, they are prone to panic, cry, bark, whine when they left alone by their owner. With proper socialization and quality time with the dog can solve this problem.

Polynesian Dog Bite Characteristics

Bite Risk Assessment
What is a Polynesian Dog biting potential? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's bite risk factors.

Moderate

The Polynesian Dog has an average chance of biting somebody. Top reasons for dog bite: protection, pain, excitement, herding instinct, being provoked. (Data based on the available online bite statistics.)
Mouthing Tendency
Is a Polynesian Dog mouthy? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's tendency to use mouth during play.
Polynesian Dog dogs have an average tendency to nip, chew, playbite, or herd people. It's a common habit during puppyhood, not aggressive behavior. These "bites" don't hurt, but Polynesian Dog dogs need to be taught a good attitude.
Bite Strength Rating
How strong is a Polynesian Dog bite? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's bite force measured in PSI.

Between 200 and 400 PSI

Polynesian Dog bite force: Ordinary. Bite force Polynesian Dog measurements typically fall within the range of 200 to 400 PSI. The bite force of a Polynesian Dog is considered ordinary when compared to other dog breeds, but it is still quite powerful. This Polynesian Dog bite force PSI can cause bite wounds. Polynesian Dog bite PSI is not something that should be feared if the dog is well-trained and managed. To avoid any issues, it's essential to learn how to train a Polynesian Dog puppy not to bite from an early age.

The Polynesian Dog, and many others, have a fearsome presence because they have significant jaw strength, so it is important not to anger the dog and have it around strangers until it is fully trained.

However, they are usually quite calm and good companions, they work well in families and are easy to care for.

In conclusion, while the Polynesian Dog bite force is certainly an interesting aspect of the breed, it is important not to let it overshadow the many other reasons why these dogs are so loved and respected. With proper training and socialization, a Polynesian Dog can be a loyal and protective companion for your family.

Polynesian Dog Health and Lifespan

Average Lifespan
How long does a Polynesian Dog live? Learn about the typical lifespan of the Polynesian Dog breed.
They were usually eaten before they died of a natural death.
Climate Tolerance
How well does a Polynesian Dog handle different weather? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's climate adaptability.
Tolerates warm and cold weather
Dogs that tolerate hot and cold weather are typically those that have a double coat of fur. Dogs with a double coat of fur have a layer of fur that insulates their skin and helps protect them from the cold and the heat.
Health Concerns
What health issues are common in a Polynesian Dog? Discover typical conditions affecting the Polynesian Dog breed.
The Polynesian Dog is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Vet Care Frequency
How often does a Polynesian Dog need vet visits? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's veterinary care requirements.
Average
The Polynesian Dog should have a complete physical check-up at least once per year. If your dog shows any symptoms, call your veterinarian.

Polynesian Dog Energy and Activity

Energy Rating
How energetic is a Polynesian Dog? Understand daily activity needs of the Polynesian Dog breed.
Polynesian Dog dogs have an average energy level, so if you live a semi-active life, this breed can be a good choice for you.
Activity Requirement / Exercise Need
How much exercise does a Polynesian Dog need? How much exercise do Polynesian Dog dogs require per day?

Do Polynesian Dog dogs need a lot of exercises?

Polynesian Dog dogs have an average exercise need. This breed is satisfied with short walks every weekday and a long ones on weekends.
Sleeping Need
How much sleep does the Polynesian Dog breed need?
Polynesian Dog dogs sleep 12-14 hours a day as an average dog and they're not considered a lazy breed.

Polynesian Dog Diet and Weight Management

Obesity Tendency
Is a Polynesian Dog prone to weight gain? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's obesity risks.
Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Polynesian Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight. More than one daily walk should be on schedule. To make your dog happy and fit, feed him with quality dry dog food and live an active life together. Try to find the happy medium between exercise and feeding.

If you notice any weight gain, consult your veterinarian and make a diet plan. Reduce unhealthy food and snacks, and measure the Polynesian Dog weight regularly.

Food Consumption
How much food does a Polynesian Dog need daily? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's feeding requirements.
0.5 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.

Polynesian Dog Allergies and Grooming

Allergy Friendliness
Is a Polynesian Dog hypoallergenic? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's suitability for allergy sufferers.
No
Polynesian Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions. Some dog breeds are even considered to higher possibility of an allergic response. Coat type isn't necessarily relevant, because most people are allergic to dander (flakes on the dog's skin) or saliva, not actually to dog hair.
Coat Colors
What colors does a Polynesian Dog come in? Discover all possible Polynesian Dog color variations.
Black White Light Cream
Grooming Requirements
How much grooming does a Polynesian Dog need? Learn about Polynesian Dog coat maintenance requirements.
Average: The Polynesian Dog requires average grooming effort. Cutting the dog's hair by a professional groomer isn't essential.

Brushing the dog's coat is useful to reduce shedding. Ears and eyes should be cleaned regularly to avoid infections.

Don't skip the seasonal flea treatment too. Dog nail trimming and dog bath can be helpful sometimes.

Check the local pet store for dog grooming supplies and find the best dog shampoo to keep its coat healthy and give your dog a pleasant experience of a dog bath.

If you don't have the time, skill, or money to take care of your Polynesian Dog, search for a dog groomer or clipping service in your area and book an appointment.

Maybe you're lucky to have a dog boarding service that includes grooming or walk-in dog bath places nearby.

Drooling Tendency
Does a Polynesian Dog drool a lot? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's drooling habits.
The Polynesian Dog is an average drooler. Drooling is the unintentional saliva flowing outside of the mouth. It can be completely normal or a sign of a health problem.

If you notice any change in your dog's drooling habit, you should contact a vet as soon as possible.

Stinkiness Rating
Does a Polynesian Dog smell bad? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's natural odor levels.

Medium

The Polynesian Dog has an average chance of bad smell. Top reasons for dog stinkiness: infection of bad tooth/ear/skin folds, gas attacks.
Coat Characteristics
What type of coat does a Polynesian Dog have? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's fur characteristics.
Weather-resistant
Bathing Needs
How often does a Polynesian Dog need baths? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's bathing requirements.
8-12 weeks
Very rarely. Bathing your dog is beneficial to them in more ways than just one. It’s also a good time to look for unusual scratches, bumps, fleas, and other irregularities. When their hair is wet and flat against their body, these details are more visible.

For example, short-haired dog breeds can go a very long time in between baths. These short-haired breeds shed regularly and that shedding works to naturally remove excess dirt and oil. So unless your weenie dog got into the garbage can, you can probably hold off on a bath for a while.

Shedding Level
How much do Polynesian Dog dogs shed? How to control, reduce and prevent the shedding of the Kuri? Do Polynesian Dog dogs shed a lot?
Polynesian Dog dogs shed above average. It's a natural process of the hair growth cycle. The amount and frequency of hair loss mostly depend on their health status and breed type. If you don't like vacuum cleaning, you might have to reconsider your choice of having a puppy from the Polynesian Dog breed.

Polynesian Dog Good With

Child Compatibility
Is a Polynesian Dog good with children? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's behavior around kids of different ages.
Polynesian Dog dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
Pet Compatibility
How well does a Polynesian Dog get along with other pets? Discover the Polynesian Dog's compatibility with other animals.
Polynesian Dog dogs are generally with other pets.
Stranger Friendly
Are they aggressive or friendly towards/with strangers? Polynesian Dog temperament with other people:
Polynesian Dog dogs are not the most stranger-friendly dogs.
Cat Friendly
How well do Polynesian Dog dogs get along with cats? Are they good with kittens? What is this fido's temperament with cats? Can they be good with cats? Can the Polynesian Dog breed live with a cat?
Polynesian Dog dogs are average friendly towards cats.
Dog Friendly
Is Polynesian Dog good with other dogs? Are they dog-friendly dogs? How well do Polynesian Dog dogs get along with other dogs?
Polynesian Dog dogs are average friendly towards other dogs.
Good For First Time Owners
Is Polynesian Dog breed good for first-time owners? Do they make a good dog for novice owners? Is Polynesian Dog breed suitable for first-time owners?
Yes
Polynesian Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Office Friendly
Are Polynesian Dog dogs good office canines? Do Polynesian Dog dogs make good office-friendly pets? Can they be office dogs?
No
Polynesian Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.
Senior Citizens Friendly
Are they senior citizens friendly dogs? How well do Polynesian Dog dogs get along with the elderly people? What is the Kuri temperament with senior people? Are Polynesian Dog dogs good for elderly owners?
Polynesian Dogs are commonly okay with elderly people.

Polynesian Dog As a Working Dog

Service Dog Capability
Can a Polynesian Dog be a service dog? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's service work potential.

Not really

This breed generally not used as a service dog. A service dog is a term used in the USA to refer to any type of assistance dog specifically trained to help people who have disabilities, such as visual impairment, hearing impairments, mental disorders, seizures, mobility impairment, and diabetes. Service dogs are protected under the ADA (Americans with Disabilities Act).

Polynesian Dog is not the best breed for service purposes.

Therapy Work Suitability
Is a Polynesian Dog good as a therapy dog? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's therapy work aptitude.

Not really

This breed is generally not used as a therapy dog. A therapy dog is a dog that might be trained to provide affection, comfort, and love to people in hospitals, retirement homes, nursing homes, schools, hospices, disaster areas, and people with anxiety disorders or autism.

Polynesian Dog is not the best breed for therapeutic purposes.

Scent Detection Ability
Is a Polynesian Dog good at detection work? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's scenting abilities.

Not really

They are not typically employed for this type of work, but there may be exceptional cases. A detection dog or sniffer dog is a dog that is trained to use its senses (mostly its smell) to detect substances such as explosives, illegal drugs, wildlife scat, currency, blood, and contraband electronics such as illicit mobile phones.

Polynesian Dog is not the best breed for detection purposes.

Search & Rescue Potential
Can a Polynesian Dog do search and rescue? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's SAR capabilities.

Not really

This dog breed is not typically used as a search and rescue dog. The use of dogs in search and rescue (SAR) is a valuable component in wilderness tracking, natural disasters, mass casualty events, and locating missing people.

The Polynesian Dog is not the best breed for SAR purposes.

Maritime Work Ability
Is a Polynesian Dog good on boats? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's maritime capabilities.

Not really

Polynesian Dog breed usually doesn't like being on a boat.

Boat dogs were typically bred for their strength, stamina, and water resistance, as they were often required to perform tasks such as pulling in fishing nets, and jumping into the water to retrieve ropes or lines, or helping to move cargo.

Sailor dog is a type of dog that was bred to accompany sailors on their voyages. They were typically used for three purposes: as a working dog, a watchdog, and as a companion. A boat dog is a term used to describe a type of dog that was traditionally bred and used as a working dog on boats.

Draft Work Capability
Can a Polynesian Dog pull carts? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's drafting abilities.

Not really

A drafting dog or draft dog is a dog bred and used for cart pulling. Dogs bred for this work have strong builds and qualities that are needed, strength and determination.

Polynesian Dog is not the best breed for drafting purposes.

Military Service Background
Was a Polynesian Dog used in military service? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's military history.

Not really

In history, this breed was not really used for combat dog.

Polynesian Dog Reproducibility

Puppy Litter Size
How many puppies does a Polynesian Dog usually have? Learn about typical litter sizes.
5-8 puppies
Pregnancy Duration
How long is a Polynesian Dog pregnant? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's gestation period.

60-64 days

Reproductive cycle of the female Polynesian Dog: The first period called Proestrus lasts for about 9 days.

During this time the females start to attract males. You can notice by swelling vulva and bloody discharge.

The second part is the Estrus when the female is receptive for the male. It lasts for about 3 to 11 days.

The sign of the proestrus part is the soft and enlarged vulva. The discharge decreases and lightens in color.

The third part is the Diestrus. Normally, it occurs around day 14. In this period the female’s discharge changes for vivid red and coming to its end. The vulva returns to average, and she will no longer permit mating.

The fourth part called the Anestrus. The time frame between heat periods normally lasts about six months.

Breeding Frequency
How often can a Polynesian Dog have puppies? Learn about safe breeding intervals.

Once a year.

More frequent breeding is not healthy. It is very important not to buy a dog from a puppy mill, where the needs of the pups and their mothers are ignored. It's an inhumane high-volume dog breeding facility, where puppies born several times a year.

Polynesian Dog Recognition

AKC Classification
What AKC group is a Polynesian Dog in? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's AKC classification.
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Classification
What FCI group is a Polynesian Dog in? Learn about the Polynesian Dog's international classification.
Not recognized by FCI.

Polynesian Dog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Apartment Adaptability: Apartment-friendly dog the Polynesian Dog breed.
  • Lifestyle Adaptability: Polynesian Dog dogs adapt well to lifestyle changes and different living environments.
  • Good For First Time Owners: Polynesian Dog dogs are good for novice owners, due to their easy-going personality.
Cons
  • Intelligence Rating: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Allergy Friendliness: Polynesian Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Shedding Level: Polynesian Dog dogs shed above average.
  • Obesity Tendency: Average to High: If you don't pay attention to the Polynesian Dog's weight, he can easily gain weight.
  • Impulse to Wander or Roam: The wanderlust potential of the Polynesian Dog is strong enough to escape from home.
  • Office Friendly: Polynesian Dog is not the best dog breed for office environment.

Polynesian Dog History

The Polynesian Dog refers to a few extinct varieties of domesticated dogs from the islands of Polynesia. These dogs were used for both companionship and food and were introduced alongside poultry and pigs to various islands. Unfortunately, they became extinct because of the cross-breeding that happened after other breeds of dogs were introduced. There are several historians who done modern studies on the DNA of the Polynesian dogs that indicate that they are descended from the domesticated dogs of Southeast Asia and may have shared a remote ancestor with the Dingo.

In the past, descriptions of the Polynesian dogs have been found, and among them, one came from Lieutenant – ant King who lived during the 18th century. The King’s journal was used to complete several historians’ expeditions. The King wrote; “The dogs are of the same species with those of Otaheite, having short crooked legs, long backs, and pricked ear.”

Moreover, these dogs were a very important part of the Polynesian narrative as they were associated with the legends of the demigod Maui. According to this legend, Maui transformed his brother in law into the breed which explained the human characteristics of the dogs. The Maori name for the Polynesian dog was Kuri and it was introduced to New Zealand by the Polynesian ancestors of the Maori during their migration from East Polynesia in the 13th century AD. They were bushy-tailed with short legs and a strong body. Their coat color ranged from yellowish-brown to black, white, or spotted. According to researchers, some European explorers described them as lazy as they were said to rarely bark but would howl occasionally.

Furthermore, it is unknown when and how they went extinct but it is said that it happened around the 18th century. Some sources suggest that the dogs’ skins were used for cloaks and their bones were made into fish hooks and necklaces and the dog’s hair was tied onto weapons to distract an enemy as the weapon was moved. Apparently, the famous English explorer, James Cook, said that it tasted as good as a lamb.

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