In Bali, dogs have long been understood through observation, measurement, and intuition.
An old Balinese manuscript called Carcan Asu describes a way to read a dog’s personality using simple measurements and counting.
The dog’s body is measured from nose to tail, then from nose to the point between its eyes.
By dividing one length by the other and counting through a sequence of names (Paksa, Jaya, Guna, Ketek, Kiul), the name reached reveals the dog’s natural temperament.
- Paksa – protective, loyal, alert
- Jaya – confident, attention seeking
- Guna – obedient, trainable
- Ketek – rough, instinct driven
- Kiul – calm, relaxed, easy going
For centuries, this system helped families choose dogs suited to home life or specific work roles.
It reflects the deep respect Balinese people hold for animals that share their compounds, protecting homes and sensing unseen energies.
To explore these traditions and the stories behind Bali’s beloved dogs, read A Guide to Bali Dogs, available through karendonaldpublishing.com.
