SM Super Pets Breed Feature: Aspin

We’re doing this week's Super Pet Feature on the native dog of the Philippines!

We’re doing this month’s Super Pet Feature on the native dog of the Philippines! 

Here are some fun facts about the Aspin! 

Did you know that the Aspin… 

• Stands for Asong Pinoy or Philippine Dog? 

Animal advocacy groups in the country gave this name to uplift the image of our native dogs and foster more pride. 

• Is always one-of-a-kind? 

Since aspins are a blend of different local and foreign dogs, each aspin comes with its own set of traits. In fact, no two aspins are alike! Even aspins from the same litter can look very different from one another. 

• Can trace its lineage to about 15,000 years ago? 

A research study published in Nature back in 2015 traced the genetic codes in dogs from Southeast Asia to an ancient dog diaspora from thousands of years ago. Another study found that some modern American and European dogs actually hailed from village dogs in the Philippines.

• Has a lower risk of overheating? 

With their shorter coats and long history in the country, aspins are generally more used to Philippine weather than other dog breeds. However, that doesn’t mean aspins don’t need shade and a steady clean water supply. 

•  Is known to be a natural guard dog? 

Throughout history, aspins took on the responsibility of looking after farms, families, and communities without formal training. An aspin at home will probably use its natural sharp sense and protective instincts to warn you about possible intruders. 

• Can be a called a war hero? 

Speaking of their guard dog instincts, aspins actually alerted families when soldiers were approaching during the Japanese occupation! These days, the Philippine Army and police have trained aspins for search-and-rescue or disaster response missions.

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