Tornjak vs Combai - Breed Comparison | Petzlover

Tornjak vs Combai - Breed ComparisonCombai is originated from India but Tornjak is originated from Croatia. Combai may grow 8 cm / 3 inches shorter than Tornjak. Combai may weigh 16 kg / 35 pounds lesser than Tornjak. Combai may live 3 years more than Tornjak. Both Combai and Tornjak has almost same litter size. Combai requires Low Maintenance. But Tornjak requires Moderate Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Hound dog
Working dog
undefined
India
Croatia
Height Male:
43 - 64 cm
16 - 26 inches
58 - 72 cm
22 - 29 inches
Height Female:
43 - 64 cm
16 - 26 inches
58 - 72 cm
22 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
18 - 34 kg
39 - 75 pounds
28 - 50 kg
61 - 111 pounds
Weight Female:
18 - 34 kg
39 - 75 pounds
28 - 50 kg
61 - 111 pounds
Life Span:
12 - 15 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
3 - 8
4 - 7
Size:
Medium
Large
Other Names:
Indian Bear Hound, Indian Bear Dog and Tamil Bear Hound
Croatian Mountain Dog, Bosnian Shepherd Dog
Colors Available:
Brown, reddish, tan
White with tan, brown or black markings, grey
Coat:
Short and smooth
Long and thick
Shedding:
Minimal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Low Maintenance
Moderate Maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

History

combaiThe Combai is a dog from Tamilnadu, Southern India, developed to hunt dangerous animals by the Indian royalty. It is a rare breed in India, believed to be close to extinction.

The dog is also known as the Indian Bear Hound, Indian Bear Dog and Tamil Bear Hound. You can spell the name of the dog with a ‘C’ or a ‘K’, Combai or Kombai.

Accurate records as to the history of this dog haven’t been kept, so much of the dog’s history is on speculation, although it is believed with some certainty, that the breed has been around since the 15th century. It is thought that the Combai was developed from Mastiff-type dogs, Pariah dogs, the Thai Ridgeback and Khoisan dogs.

tornjakKnown also as the Bosnian and Herzegovinian, the Tornjak dog hails from Croatia and Bosnia and is a large mountain sheepdog.

It is thought that this protector of livestock dog has been bred from the Tibetan Mastiff. He is an ancient breed because there are records of its existence coming as far back as the 11th century.

As a working dog, his role of guarding sheep became less and the dog’s numbers diminished. It was during the 1970s that the breed was revived.

Description

combai puppy - descriptionThe Combai is a medium sized dog, standing at between 43 to 64cm in height and weighing up to 34kg. Possibly the most distinctive feature of the Combai is a ridge of fur that runs down its back, with the hair growing in the opposite direction to the dog’s body hair. The coat of the dog is short and smooth with colors being brown, tan or reddish. The dog is medium sized, though size does vary quite a bit . The dog is muscular, lean and athletic with a long tail that curls over the back.

The head of the Combai is fairly narrow with a muzzle which is quite long.The ears of the Combai vary as well and usually drop down or they fold backwards.

Temperament:

The Combai’s temperament is by no means gentle and it is believed to be a fierce, angry breed who will fight other dogs to the death.

It is sometimes hard to believe that the Combai, with training and socialization can make a good family pet. He then loves the company of his human family and remains loyal to them. When trained and socialized they also get on well with children in the home.

It isn’t recommended as a first dog choice for those who have never owned a dog as it does tend to be aggressive. The dog is also very territorial and alert and its why he makes a good watchdog.

tornjak puppy - descriptionThis is a large, strong dog, standing at between 58 and 72cm in height and weighing between 28 and 50kg. He has a long, thick coat which has always protected him from the harsh winters of the countries he comes from.

Common colors for the coat are mainly white with tan, brown, grey or black markings.

Temperament:

The Tornjak is a beautiful dog and also calm by nature, well balanced, intelligent and self- confident. His calm nature doesn’t stop him from being a good watchdog though as he is also alert and brave.

He is more than willing to please his owner and is able to be trained and socialized with ease.

He is a social dog and just loves spending time with hs human family. Therefore efforts should be made not to leave him alone for long periods of time. He forms strong bonds with them and is loving and devoted. Because of his size and energy he won’t suit life in the city on a small property but will be better suited to life in the countryside.

Characteristics

combai dog - characteristicsThe Combai is known for its bravery and fearlessness and this is what makes him such an exceptional watch dog as he also doesn’t take kindly to strangers.

The Combai is full of energy too and won’t like to spend days lying around. He will require regular exercise.

Have him trained and socialized and he becomes the most loyal and devoted pet and companion.

These are quiet, brave dogs but they can be good watchdogs too.

Calm and balanced, he is capable of being alert too and makes a good watchdog.

tornjak dog - characteristicsWith their human family, they become attached and loyal, not wanting to be separated from anyone for too long. Give him the care this beautiful dog deserves and he'll make you a splendid pet and companion.

Health Problems

combai puppies - health problemsMost dog experts will agree that the Combai is a breed that enjoys excellent health, and that in fact it seems as though the dog is disease- and parasite resistant.

There are however, always common dog illnesses that every dog owner should be aware of and it is always to a dog owner’s benefit to have their pet tested by Foundations such as the Orthopedic- and Canine Eye Registration Foundation who can perform tests to identify potential health defects before they show up.

Some of the ailments of concern in hounds include progressive retinal atrophy, demoid sinus and hip dysplasia.

Progressive Retinal Atrophy:

The Retina is the light sensitive part of the eye and also part of the central nervous system. In retinal degeneration, the cells of the retina decline in function and this is what leads to possible blindness.

Progressive retinal atrophy worsens with time. If your pet doesn’t seem to react to light properly it may be wise to have him checked by the vet.

Demoid Sinus:

This defect is found in newborns as well as later on in life, and found primarily in Ridgeback dogs. Dermoid sinus is a neural tube defect that is typically found along your dog’s back, the tail and the neck.

The role of the tubes is to drain out dead cells for example. Not correctly formed, they become infected and an abscess forms with discharge. You will have to get your pet to the vet who will proceed with treatment as your pet can experience pain and discomfort.

tornjak puppies - health problemsMost dogs face one or two health challenges in their lives, but most Tornjaks are healthy and won’t easily get sick.

They’re large dogs so they typically don’t live as long as small dogs. They can live to be between 10 and 12 years of age.

Patellar Luxation: 

This is a dislocation of the kneecap, caused by an injury or it can be present at birth. It can cause pain and a limp.

Hip Dysplasia:

This is a joint condition that is more often seen in large dogs. The ill-fitting joint rubs and chafes, and osteoarthritis and more pain is the result.

You will have to speak to your vet about relieving the pain for your dog and making him more comfortable. Don’t think hip dysplasia is something only old dogs get – it can develop with young dogs – even puppies. Your veterinarian will examine your pet and suggest different medical and surgical options.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

combai dogs - caringThe Combai is an active dog and he will require quite a bit of exercise. A good way of giving him exercise is to take him on walks or allow him to go jogging with you or cycling.

Denying him exercise will make him frustrated and destructive. His high exercise needs mean that he won’t do well in small apartments but will do well in the suburbs or in the country.

Grooming:

With his short coat, the Combai is a low maintenance breed.  This breed should never require professional grooming, only an occasional brushing.  Other than that, he will require his nails being clipped, his ears checked for infection and his teeth cleaned 2 or 3 times a week.

Diet:

High energy dogs like the Combai will require a top quality kibble diet recommended by your vet with raw meat included in his diet from time to time as well as nutritious cooked food added in such as brown rice, vegetables and cooked chicken. Fresh water must be available to him night and day non-stop.

Exercise:

tornjak dogs - caringThe Tornjak needs exercise every day to keep him fit and happy. He will love it when you take down his leash for his daily walk. He is a social dog and will want to be involved with all your activities. He gets on well with other dogs too.

●Grooming:

The Tornjak will require quite a bit of grooming because the hair is fairly long and it sheds. Some dog owners have the hair cut by a professional groomer. Regular brushing certainly helps to reduce lots of dog hair flying around.

The insides of his ears need to be checked for signs of redness as well as the eyes. The eyes should be checked for pus and redness. Occasional dog nail trimming will also be required.

● Vaccines:

Keep his vaccines up to date to avoid deadly canine diseases.

● Diet:

Provide your Tornjak with top quality food. If you feed him with one of the commercially manufactured foods, make sure it is one of the better brands. The inferior brands are filled with bad ingredients that can actually make a dog sick.

Try to include some home-made food which can be added to the dry kibble twice a week as a treat. Avoid human foods such as chocolates, grapes, onions, peanuts and chips as these can give him stomach pain and more vet bills for you.

Stick to wholesome, simple foods such as boiled chicken, brown rice or pasta and spinach, sweet potatoes and carrots. Your Tornjak will love it and it will ensure he has bright eyes ad a wagging tail. Never leave him without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Tornjak vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. Tornjak vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Tornjak vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. Tornjak vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. Tornjak vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. Tornjak vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Tornjak vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. Tornjak vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. Tornjak vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. Tornjak vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. Tornjak vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. Tornjak vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. Tornjak vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. Tornjak vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. Tornjak vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. Tornjak vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. Tornjak vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. Tornjak vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. Tornjak vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. Tornjak vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. Tornjak vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. Tornjak vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. Tornjak vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. Tornjak vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. Tornjak vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Combai vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Combai vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Combai vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Combai vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Combai vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Combai vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Combai vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Combai vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Combai vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Combai vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Combai vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Combai vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Combai vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Combai vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Combai vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Combai vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Combai vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Combai vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Combai vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Combai vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Combai vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Combai vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Combai vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Combai vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Combai vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison