Breed History and Characteristics
BREED HISTORY:
"Bangkaew" is a village located in the Bangrakam District, Phitsanulok Province in the central region of Thailand. In this district, near the Yom River, there is a monastery named, Wat Bangkaew. 100 years ago, the land supported a forest plentiful with timber and inhabited by wild animals such as elephants, boars, wild chickens, jackals, and dholes (Asiatic wild dogs). It is believed that Wat Bangkaew is the place of origin of Thai Bangkaew Dogs.
As the story goes, the third Abbot of Wat Bangkaew Temple, long respected Luang Puh Maak Metharee, was known for mercy and care given to all things living. He kept animals of many kinds like bantam hens, doves, cats, and dogs.
He came to receive a native Thai bitch from an old Bang Kaew villager named Tah Nim. That bitch was large with long black hair. As she was pregnant, her mating may have been to a jackal or dhole, the resulting litter produced longhaired puppies of black and dark brown colouration.
During the time that Luang Puh Maak Metharee had raised four bitches from the litter, there were the migrations by the Song, a race of Thai people, into Huay Chan, a village located a little more than a mile away. These people used their dogs to herd the cattle they brought along on the journey to their new homes. After settling in Huay Chan, they began to interact and established trade with the people in Bangkaew village, and of course, their dogs followed along.
Hence, the breedings between the bitches of Luang Puh Maak Metharee and the dogs of the newly arrived inhabitants took place. Residents of the houseboats along the Yom River took these dogs as their pets.
The bitches' seasons occurred at a time most of the land in that area was flooded by the very heavy rains. Secluded by this natural occurring barrier other dogs were excluded from contributing to the gene pool. Thus the inbreeding that took place in 1957 led to the creation of the Purebred Thai Bangkaew Dogs.
In 1983 it was found that the breed was nearing extinction. Dr Nisit Tangtrakarnpong, a veterinarian in Phitsanulok Province, along with a group of villagers in the Chum Saeng Song Karm community formed a liaison that initiated the resurrection of the breed.
The conservation project, “Bang Kaew Khuen Thin" (Bang Kaew Goes Home) was Dr Nisit’s vision. He set out for the Breed’s home village of Bang Kaew. Unfortunately, he found that the inhabitants had no real interest in the mission. Undaunted by this finding, Chum Saeng Song Kream village was his next stop. Dr Nisit discovered a sizable number of purebred Bangkaew in residence. Villagers agreed to participate in a selective breeding program for the Thai Bangkaew.
It was with the cooperation of the village officials & the residents that Dr Nisit’s conservation project was realized
From then on, this charming, beautiful, clever, honest and loyal breed has been selectively bred and has become one of the most favoured varieties of Thai dogs.
It is still a very rare breed outside of Thailand.
Thai Bangkaew Dog FCI Group: 5 fully approved since 2022 at the World Dog Show in Madrid
(Section 5: Asian Spitz and Related Breeds) provisional accepted in 2011
Thinking of Raising a Thai Bangkaew Dog? Here's What You Need to Know! 
The Thai Bangkaew Dog is a striking breed — intelligent, loyal, and full of personality. They’re more than just beautiful; they’re deeply devoted companions who thrive in a home that understands their needs.
Temperament: Loyal, Protective — and Surprisingly Affectionate
Thai Bangkaews are often described as independent and alert, but that doesn’t mean they’re emotionally distant.
In fact, with the people they trust, Bangkaews are exceptionally affectionate —
I compare them to ragdoll cats for how they relax completely in your arms, snuggling in and going floppy with contentment.
Key traits:
Protective: Naturally wary of strangers, which makes them excellent watchdogs.
Affectionate & Cuddly with Family: Once bonded, they’re incredibly loving, often seeking out cuddles and physical closeness.
Loyal: They form deep attachments and will often follow their trusted humans around the house.
Excellent Communicators: Bangkaews don’t just bark — they talk. Expect howls, whines, grumbles, and even “conversations” when they’re excited, curious, or trying to get your attention.
Intelligent with an Independent Streak: They learn quickly but require motivation; they'll want to know why first during training.
Energetic & Playful: They enjoy both physical and mental challenges and love a good romp.
Their vocal range isn’t just noise — it’s communication. Bangkaews will let you know how they feel, and you’ll quickly learn to recognise their different “tones” for excitement, warning, frustration, or affection.
This dual nature — aloof with strangers but tender with loved ones — is what makes Bangkaews so special. They don't give their trust easily, but once you're in, you're in.
Tips for Raising One:
Socialise early and consistently Use positive reinforcement; they respond best to love, not pressure Give them structure AND snuggles Be ready to listen and "talk" to them!The Thai Bangkaew is a dog of contrast — reserved with outsiders, but a melting, vocal marshmallow with the ones they love.
They’re protectors, communicators, cuddle-seekers, and thinkers — a perfect companion for someone who appreciates a dog with both spirit and soul. 
Sabine Van der Zwan (Roy Hill Bangkaew)