The Telomian is a rare breed of dog from Malaysia.  These dogs were originally kept by the aborigines, and even today that is where they are most commonly found.  Two separate pairs were brought to the United States, and there is a very small stock of Telomian there.
   
    Telomian stand between 15-19 inches and weigh between 18-28 pounds.  They are similar in appearance to the African Basenji, but without the curled tail.  Their coat is short and smooth.  Telomians are brown and white with an occasional black mask. 
   
    Kept by the aborigines the Telomian was an important part of their lives, their primary duty to protect the villagers from snakes.  They were also used for hunting small game and catching fish.  The aborigines’ huts were built on 6-8 foot stilts, and the dog would climb the ladder to enter the home first.  They would kill any snakes or small animals that had taken up residence throughout the day.  In 1963 anthropologist Dr. Orville Elliot discovered the breed being kept in the jungles of Malaysia.  He named the breed for the Telom River that was near them.  He brought a pair back to the United States and they dogs were used in a study on animal behavior, later they were introduced to the public in 1970.  With the then current population inside the United States being inbred Dr. Elliot traveled to Malaysia to bring another pair, which arrived in 1973.  Still the Telomian is virtually unknown.
   
    Telomians are very similar to Basenji and other pariah breeds.  They do not bark, but instead make other dog-like noises.  They love to play, and are excellent pets for children.  The breed is highly intelligent, and can also use its paws to climb, open doors, and get into almost anything.  It is recommended they receive extensive handling and bonding between 4-6 weeks of age, without this experience the Telomian can have difficulties adjusting to situations.