India's rare bear-like hunting dog breed from Manipur joins Assam Rifles: Meet the loyal and fearless Haofa

Time of India

17-07-2025

Haofa, an indigenous dog breed native to Manipur's
Tangkhul region
, is gaining national attention for its unmatched hunting instincts, loyalty, and growing role in India's security forces. Once a vital hunting companion among the Tangkhul Nagas,
Haofa
is now being procured by the
Assam Rifles
for their Dog Training Centre in Jorhat, Assam.
According to ANI, the breed—often likened to a bear due to its robust frame, bluish-black coat, long muzzle, and powerful jaws—is found exclusively in the Ukhrul district of Manipur. Among locals, two main types of Haofa are recognized: a smaller variant used for hunting small game and a larger, more formidable type that serves as both hunter and guardian.
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Tenno, President of the Phungcham Haofa Lover Association, told ANI, "Haofa is an indigenous canine breed of the Tangkhul community. It is found only in this region and nowhere else. Haofa is considered both a guard dog and an excellent
hunting dog
. Its strong sense of smell makes it highly sought-after."
Though the breed once thrived across Tangkhul lands, the population of purebred Haofa has declined significantly in recent decades. Phungcham village remains one of the few places preserving its genetic lineage, thanks to the efforts of dedicated breeders.
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For the Tangkhul community, Haofa is more than just a dog—it is a living symbol of identity and heritage. Now, this indigenous treasure is attracting national interest.
Manipur dog enthusiast Yangpen Yangya highlighted the breed's potential beyond rural terrains. "This dog is very good for us. It can even serve in the country's security forces. Its sense of smell is excellent. It can be used in cities like Delhi and Mumbai. It's extremely loyal to its master and is also great for providing security to children and the elderly," Yangya said in an interview with ANI.
Recognising the breed's significance, a team from the Department of Animal Sciences, College of Agriculture, Imphal, recently conducted a detailed breed assessment in Phungcham. Their findings have been submitted to the National Bureau of Animal Genetic Resources (NBAGR), Haryana, for official recognition at the national level.
Haofa's revival story is not just about a rare breed—it represents a broader movement to preserve indigenous biodiversity, cultural heritage, and the pride of Northeast India.