They are medium-sized and squarely built, with a wedge-shaped head with pricked ears and a bushy tail. It has a thick double coat consisting of a dense outer coat of harsh, straight short to medium-length hair and a profuse undercoat. They come in a range of colours including sand, red, and black usually with white markings or all white with colour patches. Canaan dogs are highly alert dogs with an inquisitive nature and excellent herding instincts. They have a responsive personality and are affectionate and loyal to their owners. Well-socialised Canaans will be gentle with children, which they will regard as part of their pack. They will also do well with other pets they have been raised with, even cats, but may be instinctively challenging to unknown dogs. Having been used for centuries as herding and guarding dogs, they are naturally protective of their owners and can make vocal guard dogs. They are super watchful and may assess strangers and new situations carefully which can make them come across as distrustful, however, they are simply being hyper-vigilant. Canaans will enjoy plenty of exercise and enjoy dog ability, flyball, herding and other activities which will stimulate their keen minds. This is a breed that can be independent and requires an experienced owner that can provide firm but gentle leadership. They also require excellent early socialisation to counteract their natural aloofness and potential aggression to unfamiliar dogs. This is a unique breed which retains many of its natural instincts, making it best suited to an owner who can understand and appreciate the breed. In return, they will have a loyal companion and protector.