Aidi
Also known as: Aïdi Atlas Mountain Dog Atlas Shepherd Dog Berber Dog
The Aidi is a Moroccan dog breed weighing 25 kg and standing 52-62 cm tall. The Aidi comes from Morocco, typically weighs 25 kg, and has a thick, medium-length coat. Individual Aidis vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Morocco
- Weight
- 25 kg (55 lb)
- Height
- 52–62 cm (20–24 in)
- Coat
- Thick, medium-length
- Colour
- Black, brown, brindle, cream or cream sable, or red or red sable, all with or without black mask or any amount of white
- Other names
- Aïdi Atlas Mountain Dog Atlas Shepherd Dog Berber Dog
About the Aidi
The Aidi is a Moroccan dog breed weighing 25 kg and standing 52-62 cm tall. Originating from Morocco, it is a medium-sized herding dog.
Overview
The Aidi is a dog breed native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa and is used as a livestock guardian , protecting herds of sheep and goats . It is most commonly found in Morocco , which holds the standard under the Fédération Cynologique Internationale . The Aidi is also found in Algeria , Tunisia and Libya . It possesses hunting capabilities and good scenting ability. In Morocco , it is often paired in hunting with the Sloughi , which chases down prey that the Aidi has located by scent.
History
The Aidi is a breed native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa. Despite being initially referred to as the Atlas Sheepdog in the 1963 standard, the Aidi has never been used as a sheepdog , and this misnomer was corrected in 1969. Known for its courage, the Aidi has traditionally lived and worked in the Atlas Mountains, providing protection to its owner and property against wildcats, predators, and strangers. The breed has also been referred to as the Berber, named after the Berber tribes who utilized the dog. The Aidi shares some ancestral resemblance with the pariah dog . In the past, it played a vital role as a protector for desert nomad tribes, with the most alert and aggressive dogs stationed around the camp perimeter at night. Historically, the Aidi has not received the same level of admiration from the tribes as breeds like the Sloughi, which are considered noble. However, a club has recently been formed in Morocco to preserve the breed''s purity due to its significant contributions as a protector, hunter, police dog , and companion. While the Aidi has primarily been used as a working dog, it has also gained popularity as a household pet in urban areas. When given sufficient tasks and exercise, the Aidi can adapt well to an urban environment and make a content and fulfilled companion. In terms of color and flock-guarding abilities, the Aidi shares many characteristics with other livestock guardian dog breeds.
Appearance
Standing 52–62 cm (20–24 in) in height and weighing around 25 kg (55 lb) , the Aidi''s lean, muscular body is protected by a coarse, thick, weather-resistant coat with a heavy plumed tail. The coat is heavy and soft. The head is bear -like and in proportion to the rest of the body. The breed has a tapered muzzle with a black or brown nose that usually matches the coat. Their jaws are strong with tight black or brown lips. The medium-sized ears are tipped forward and drop slightly. The eyes are medium, with a dark color and dark rims. Coat colours are white, black, black and white, pale red, and tawny. In some regions of Morocco, the ears are cropped and the tail is docked .
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Aidi?
The Aidi is a medium to large-sized dog breed with a muscular build and a distinctive black and white coat. It has a broad head, a black mask, and erect ears. The breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature. Aidis are also agile and have good scenting ability, making them suitable for guarding livestock and hunting.
Is the Aidi a good family dog?
The Aidi is a loyal and protective breed, but it can be wary of strangers. With proper socialization, it can make a good family dog, especially for families with children who are old enough to understand and respect its boundaries. However, it may not be the best choice for very young children or for families with multiple pets.
What health problems do Aidis have?
The Aidi is generally a healthy breed, but it can be prone to certain health issues, such as hip dysplasia and eye problems. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health issues early on. Additionally, the breed's thick coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling.
How much does a Aidi puppy cost?
The cost of an Aidi puppy can vary depending on factors such as location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. On average, a well-bred Aidi puppy can cost between $500 to $1,500. However, prices may be higher for puppies with champion bloodlines or from reputable breeders.
Where do Aidis come from?
The Aidi comes from Morocco. The breed developed there before spreading to dog fanciers worldwide.
Related breeds
Breed information on this page is based on the Wikipedia article on the Aidi, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.