If you have adopted an Indian pariah dog, you have welcomed one of the smartest, most loyal and most adaptable dogs in the world. Indie dogs are native to India, which is why they handle our weather so well. But "low maintenance" does not mean "no maintenance". Here is a simple guide to indie dog care in India.
Know Your Indie Dog
Indie dogs are known for being alert, intelligent and quick learners. They usually have a short, easy coat, a strong build and good natural stamina. They tend to be hardy, but they still need regular vet care, a good diet and a clean living space, just like any other dog.
1. Vaccinations and Vet Care
Whether you have an indie puppy or an adult, a vet visit is the first step.
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Complete core vaccinations, including rabies, as advised by your vet.
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Deworm regularly and keep up with a tick and flea prevention plan.
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Consider spaying or neutering, which supports long-term health.
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Get a yearly checkup, even if your dog looks perfectly healthy.
Ticks are a major concern in India, and tick fever can be serious. Check your dog's ears, neck, armpits and between the toes after every walk.
2. Feed a Balanced Diet
Indie dogs can eat well on a complete, good quality dog food. A few simple rules:
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Choose food suited to your dog's age and size.
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Keep fresh water available all day, especially in the Indian summer.
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Never feed onion, garlic, chocolate, grapes or spicy leftovers.
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Treat rice, curd and dal as occasional extras in small, plain portions, not as a full meal.
Avoid overfeeding. Indie dogs love food, and extra weight is a common problem in pets that get too many treats.
3. Daily Exercise and Mental Stimulation
Indie dogs are energetic and curious. Plan for at least one to two walks a day, plus play at home. A bored indie can turn into a digger or chewer, so keep them busy with toys and short training sessions. Indies respond well to positive training with treats and praise, so start socialising early with people and other dogs.
4. Grooming Made Simple
Their short coat is easy to manage, but a basic routine keeps skin and fur healthy:
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Brush once or twice a week to remove loose hair.
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Bathe every 3 to 4 weeks with a dog-safe shampoo. Bathing too often can dry out the skin.
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Trim nails every few weeks and check ears for dirt, redness or smell.
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Brush teeth regularly with dog-safe toothpaste.
5. Keep Them Clean Between Baths with Pet Wipes
Indian roads, parks and monsoon puddles mean your dog's paws and coat get dirty fast. Giving a full bath every time is neither practical nor healthy. This is where pet wipes for dogs make life easier.
Gobinkies Cleansing Pet Wipes are a quick way to freshen up your indie dog without a full bath. Use them to:
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Wipe muddy paws after walks, before your dog steps onto your floor
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Clean the face, especially around the eyes and mouth after meals
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Freshen the coat and body on days between baths
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Clean up after outdoor play or a trip to the park
Wipe gently in the direction of the fur and always check the pack for how to use them. Avoid the eyes and inside the ears, and ask your vet before using any product on broken or irritated skin.
6. Monsoon and Summer Care
Monsoon: Dry your dog fully after getting wet, including between the toes, since damp fur invites fungus and skin infections. Wipe paws after every walk and keep their bedding dry. Watch for extra ticks and fleas.
Summer: Walk early morning or late evening, since hot pavements can burn paws. Offer shade and plenty of water, and never leave your dog in a parked car.
7. Love, Routine and Safety
A regular routine for meals, walks and sleep helps your indie feel secure. Use a collar with an ID tag, and consider a microchip. If your dog came from the streets, give them time to settle. Be patient, and let trust build slowly.
