The Chippiparai is a sight hound breed of dog from the south of India. Thought to be a descendant of the Saluki today it is found in the area around Periyar Lake. It is used primarily for hunting wild boar deer and hare. It is also used for guarding the home. Bred by royal families in Chippiparai near Madurai district Tamil Nadu it was kept as a symbol of royalty and dignity in tirunelveli and madurai rulers.