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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.

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OriginPolynesia flagPolynesia
Other Names
What other names does the Polynesian Dog have?
KuriMaori DogNew Zealand Indigenous DogNew Zealand Native DogPeropero
Breed Type
What type of dog breed is it?
Purebred

Polynesian Dog Size and Weight

Size
Is a Polynesian Dog small, medium or large dog?

How big do Polynesian Dog get?

What is the average size of a Polynesian Dog?

Medium
Weight
How much does the Polynesian Dog weigh? How much should a Polynesian Dog weight? What is the normal weight of a Polynesian Dog? How much does a full-grown Polynesian Dog weight?
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
How much does the Polynesian Dog puppy cost? What is the price range of this puppy? What is the average price of a Polynesian Dog in the United States? How much money is a Polynesian Dog?

Where to buy a Polynesian Dog with a good pedigree?

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

Intelligent Rank
How smart is the Polynesian Dog? Is the Polynesian Dog breed dumb or smart?
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.

Trainability
Are Polynesian Dog dogs easy to train? Do they go well on dog training? How hard is it to train a Polynesian Dog?
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 Ability
Is Polynesian Dog good as a watchdog? Are they alert at night?
Polynesian Dog dogs are average watchdogs. If they sense something different, they will alert you, but observation isn't considered their main job.
Guarding Behavior / Territorial
Do Polynesian Dog dogs have aggressive behavior to protect their home/house/territory? Do they have guarding instincts?
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

Temperament
What kind of personality does the Polynesian Dog have? What characteristics or traits does the breed have?
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

Playfulness
How playful is this 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.
Barking
Do Polynesian Dog dogs bark a lot? Are they barkers/noisy? Why does my Kuri bark?
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.

Apartment Friendly
Is Polynesian Dog good as an apartment dog? Can they live in a flat? Can you have a Polynesian Dog in an apartment?
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

Adaptability
Are they adaptable and easy-going?
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.
Tolerates Being Left Alone
How long can a Polynesian Dog be left alone? How long can you leave a Polynesian Dog alone?
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 Force PSI
Does the Polynesian Dog has a hard bite? What is the bite force of a Polynesian Dog? How much bite force does a Polynesian Dog have? How strong is a Polynesian Dog bite?

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.

Biting Potential
Do Polynesian Dog bite humans? How likely are you to get bitten from the Kuri? What are the odds of getting bitten by a Polynesian Dog? Why do dog bites happen?

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.)
Mouthiness
How much mouthing/nipping/play biting does the Polynesian Dog do?
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.

Polynesian Dog Health and Lifespan

Health Issues
Is it a healthy or unhealthy breed? Do Polynesian Dog dogs have health problems or genetic diseases?
The Polynesian Dog is a healthy breed, but there are certain health issues that you should check with your vet regularly.
Veterinarian Visits
How often does the Polynesian Dog breed need to go to the vet? How often should you take your dog to the vet? How often should the Polynesian Dog see the vet?
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.
Life Expectancy
How long do Polynesian Dog dogs live? How old can a Polynesian Dog be? What is the age limit of the Polynesian Dog? How many years can the oldest Polynesian Dog live?

What is the average life expectancy / lifespan of a Polynesian Dog?

How long is the lifespan of a Polynesian Dog?

They were usually eaten before they died of a natural death.
Weather and Climate
Which weather condition is preferred by this dog? Can they tolerate hot or cold weather and climate?
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.

Polynesian Dog Energy and Activity

Energy Level
How much energy does the Polynesian Dog have? What is the activity level of the Polynesian Dog?
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

Average daily food consumption
How much food does a Polynesian Dog need? What dog products should I buy? How much food does a Polynesian Dog breed eat per day? What is good dog food for Polynesian Dog? How much food should I feed my Polynesian Dog?
0.5 to 1.5 cups of high-quality dry food a day, divided into two meals.
Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity
How easy to gain weight for this dog? Polynesian Dog risk for obesity:
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.

Polynesian Dog Allergies and Grooming

Coat / Hair Types
What type of coat does the Polynesian Dog have? What does this canine coat/fur look like?
Weather-resistant
Colors
What color is the breed's coat? What color are proper Polynesian Dog coats?
Black White Light Cream
Grooming
How to groom the Polynesian Dog and how often? How often should I take my Polynesian Dog to the groomer?
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.

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.
Bath Time / Bathing Frequency
How often does the Polynesian Dog need a bath? How often should you give a Polynesian Dog a bath? Can I bathe my Polynesian Dog every day?
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.

Hypoallergenic
Is the Polynesian Dog breed hypoallergenic?
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.
Stinkiness
How stinky is this dog? Why does it smell bad and how to get rid of the smell?

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.
Drooling Tendency
Does the Polynesian Dog drool?
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.

Polynesian Dog Good With

Pet Friendly
Are they pet-friendly dogs? How well do Polynesian Dog dogs get along with other pets? Are Polynesian Dog dogs good with pets? What is this canine temperament with other pets?
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.
Child Friendly
Are Polynesian Dog dogs kid-friendly? Are they good with young children? Polynesian Dog temperament with children:
Polynesian Dog dogs are average friendly dogs towards children.
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
Are they good as service dogs? Can Polynesian Dog be a guide dog? Are they used as seeing-eye dogs?

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 Dog
Are they good as therapy dogs? Can Polynesian Dog be a therapy dog? Are they good anxiety dogs? Can a Polynesian Dog be an emotional support animal?

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.

Detection Dog or Sniffer Dog
Are they good as detection dogs? Can Polynesian Dog be a sniffer dog?

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 and Rescue Dog (SAR)
Are they good as SAR dogs? Can Polynesian Dog be a search and rescue dog?

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.

Boat and Sailor Dog
Are they good as boat dogs? Can Polynesian Dog be a boat dog?

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.

Cart Pulling or Drafting Dog
Are they good as cart pulling dogs? Can Polynesian Dog be a drafting dog?

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.

Fighting Dog / Military Dog
Where Polynesian Dog dogs used as fighting / military dogs in history?

Not really

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

Polynesian Dog Reproducibility

Gestation Length
How long is a Polynesian Dog pregnant?How long does it take to have puppies? How to tell if the Polynesian Dog breed is pregnant?

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.

Litter Frequency

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.
Litter Size
How many puppies can the Polynesian Dog have in a litter? How many puppies can the Polynesian Dog breed have for the first time? How many puppies does a Polynesian Dog have? How many puppies can a Polynesian Dog give birth to?
5-8 puppies

Polynesian Dog Recognition

AKC Group
Is Polynesian Dog recognized by the American Kennel Club?
Not recognized by the American Kennel Club.
FCI Group
Is Polynesian Dog recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI)?
Not recognized by FCI.

Polynesian Dog Pros and Cons

Pros
  • Apartment Friendly: Apartment-friendly dog the Polynesian Dog breed.
  • 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
  • Intelligent Rank: Low to average: This canine intelligence is not the brightest one.
  • Hypoallergenic: Polynesian Dog dogs don't do well with allergy sufferers by causing allergic reactions.
  • Shedding Level: Polynesian Dog dogs shed above average.
  • Weight Gain Potential / Prone to Obesity: 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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