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Bahamian Potcakes need your help
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Wait, What's a potcake?
what's in a name?
The term "Potcake" in Bahamian culture is a nod to the thrifty and resourceful nature of the islanders. After hearty meals of peas and rice, the leftover layer stuck to the bottom of the cooking pots were offered to stray dogs. Over time, these dogs became known as “Potcakes."
History and mystery
Potcakes are a unique blend of various breeds, their lineage tied to the history of the islands. It's believed that the original settlers of the Bahamas, the Arawak people, brought dogs with them from what we know as South America. Later, European ships traversing the Atlantic introduced terriers who were onboard to protect cargo from rodents, while Loyalists fleeing the American Revolutionary War brought Carolina dogs similar to Retrievers. Centuries of this mix combined with ‘survival of the fittest’, due to rough living conditions, result in today’s Royal Bahamian Potcake, as they were officially named in the 1970s. Most sport a charming “Lab-mix” appearance, with cocked ears, a long face, and a smooth short coat. They're typically small to medium-sized, standing at around 24 inches, with a healthy weight of 45-50 pounds.
not just a pretty face
Potcakes are known for their intelligence, loyalty, athleticism and remarkable resilience. From their history as stray street dogs, Potcakes are incredibly adaptable, thanks in part to their hardy stomachs, allowing them to digest a variety of foods. They're easily trainable and form strong bonds with their human companions.
the struggle of potcakes
While Potcakes have been cherished by many, they face challenges particularly as strays. Misconceptions regarding spaying and neutering have led to overpopulation and unfortunate cases of abuse. However, local animal charities and spay-neuter programs are working tirelessly to improve the lives of these fantastic dogs.
A shooting star
The Royal Bahamian Potcake is quickly gaining recognition worldwide, thanks to rescue and adoption efforts to find forever homes for these dogs, both in The Bahamas and abroad - YES! Many Potcakes have become international and now live happy lives in the USA and Canada.