Kazakh Tazy Gains Preliminary Recognition as Official Dog Breed by International Canine Federation

The International Canine Federation (FCI) has granted preliminary recognition to the Kazakh Tazy as an official dog breed. Efforts led by Kazakhstan's Presidential Administration over two years paved the way for this achievement, ensuring the breed's cultural preservation and international acknowledgment.

The General Committee of the International Canine Federation (FCI) has granted preliminary recognition to the Kazakh Tazy as an official dog breed, with Kazakhstan named as the breed's standard holder, according to The Astana Times. This decision marks a crucial step towards fully recognizing the Tazy as a Kazakh breed internationally, as confirmed by Kazakhstan's Presidential Administration's press service.

FCI President Tamas Jakkel lauded Kazakhstan on the milestone, emphasizing the significance of the next decade for gathering health tests and data to ensure the Tazy's well-being and cement its status as a recognized breed globally. Since 2022, Kazakhstan's Presidential Administration, led by President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, has focused on Tazy's recognition through legislative changes, scientific studies, breeding shows, and exhibitions.

National cynological organizations with full FCI membership can register dog breeds for international recognition. In August 2023, Kazakhstan's Union of Cynologists satisfied all FCI criteria and achieved full membership, thus gaining the right to declare its national breeds. Union President Bauyrzhan Serikkali expressed pride in the accomplishment, highlighting the Tazy's significant historical and cultural role in Kazakhstan. He underscored the need to preserve and popularize the over 4,000-year-old breed.

Earlier this year, President Tokayev gifted Tazy puppies to French President Emmanuel Macron and Kazakh pop star Dimash Kudaibergen. In 2022, Kazakhstan committed 1.4 billion tenge to the preservation and propagation of Tazy and Tobet hunting dog breeds. The Tazy plays a vital role in Zheti Kazyna, reflecting the deep-seated cultural values and traditions of Kazakhstan's nomadic society.

(With inputs from agencies.)