The Philippines has its own “national breed” of dog, and it is not the “askal” or street dog, or the “aspin” or Filipino dog. This is the Philippine forest dog – also known as the “asong gubat” or “witch dog.”
According to GMA News Online on January 12, 2023, a petition is set to be filed to recognize the Philippine forest dog as the national breed of the Philippines. Currently, the documents are being prepared to be submitted to the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI). The FCI, established in 1911 under the sponsorship of the kennel clubs of Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, and the Netherlands, aims to have global uniformity in breeding, exhibiting, and judging of purebred dogs worldwide. According to Fred Salud, corporate secretary of the Philippine Canine Club, Inc, “The Philippine forest dog’s claw shedded every year. That is not normal for dogs.” The Philippine forest dog is also known as the “witch dog” because it is said to be very good at climbing trees. It is used by indigenous people for hunting and it is recognized by its yellow color, similar to a tiger, which is why it is also called the “tiger dog.”
The Philippine forest dog is a strong jumper, with sharp ears and a tail that curls because of its length. On January 14, the Philippine forest dog will be officially introduced at the Philippine Circuit, one of the prestigious dog shows in Asia. According to an article in Esquiremag.ph, the Philippine forest dog is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, estimated to be 36,000 years old, and the only indigenous wild dog in the country. Wild and brave, it does not interbreed with other breeds, thus preserving its pure bloodline. It is commonly found in Bukidnon in Mindanao. Indigenous canine researcher Tom Asmus has been taking care of the Philippine forest dog in his conservation area. He says that this breed is the only one that has survived independently in the jungle. However, it is also said to be challenging to keep as a pet as it has little resistance to common domesticated canine illnesses and needs to be constantly monitored as it kills domestic dogs, goats, cats, and all kinds of poultry. Despite this, the Philippine forest dog is said to be amazing.
Apart from being the only local pure breed in the Philippines, it also has a high killer instinct. And because it is so rare, many people believe that the Philippine forest dog is just a myth. Tom Asmus said, “Most Filipinos think that the asong gubat is only a myth and doesn’t exist. The Lumads of Bukidnon believe them to be a legend that can curse your family if they are killed. The Lumad also see these dogs as forest spirits more than living creatures, believing they should be respected.” Apart from Bukidnon, the Philippine forest dog can also be found in Luzon and Vizayas, often used by bird hunters. By Jason E.
