Kurdish Mastiff
From the Kurdistan Region of Iraq comes the Kurdish Mastiff. The Kurdish Mastiff comes from Kurdistan Region of Iraq. Individual Kurdish Mastiffs vary, so treat this as a general guide rather than a guarantee.
Breed at a glance
- Origin
- Kurdistan Region of Iraq
About the Kurdish Mastiff
From the Kurdistan Region of Iraq comes the Kurdish Mastiff. The Kurdish Mastiff is a rare and ancient dog breed. Known for its loyalty and protective nature, it is often used as a guard dog.
Overview
The Kurdish Mastiff , Assyrian Shepherd , or Pişder dog ( Kurdish : سەگی پشدەری , romanized : Segî Pişderî ) is a dog landrace native to the mountainous Kurdistan Region in Iraq , especially the Pişder region in Sulaymaniyah Governorate . This dog is often used as a livestock guardian against predators and number around a few thousand heads. They have been compared to the Kangal Dog and the Akbash .
History
In 1892, John Paul Dudley published a medical treatise on dogs and mentioned the Kurdish Mastiff: In Kurdistan in northern Asia Minor, and that region of Asia, there is a dog much resembling the English Mastiff, which is the constant companion and friend of the Kurd — a shepherd and watch dog partaking much of the character of his half - barbarous master, and will not well bear a change of country and associations. Nothing owned by the Kurd is valued more highly than this fierce and powerful animal, which is to a great extent treated as sacred, at least so far as the hand of a stranger is concerned. In color the Kurdish Mastiff is mainly tawny; has tail long, and head large, and his body is tall, ponderous, and well proportioned".
Description
The weight of the adult dogs increases with age and can reach 80 kg. The average is at 73.50 kg reaching from 67 kg in Sangasar to 80 kg in Qira Diza. The average body length is about 75 cm with the back length of aged dogs reaching over 88 cm.
Frequently asked questions
What are the key characteristics of the Kurdish Mastiff?
The Kurdish Mastiff is a large, muscular dog with a sturdy build and a short, dense coat that can be various shades of fawn, brindle, or black. They typically weigh between 110-200 pounds and stand 24-30 inches tall at the shoulder. Their broad head, strong jaws, and piercing eyes make them a formidable guardian.
Is the Kurdish Mastiff a good family dog?
As a livestock guardian, the Kurdish Mastiff is naturally protective of its family and territory. However, their strong instincts and independent nature may make them challenging to integrate into a family with small children. Socialization and training are crucial to ensure a harmonious household.
What health problems do Kurdish Mastiffs have?
Due to limited research, specific health issues of the Kurdish Mastiff are not well-documented. However, as a large breed, they may be prone to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and certain cancers. Regular veterinary check-ups and genetic testing can help identify potential health problems early on.
How much does a Kurdish Mastiff puppy cost?
The cost of a Kurdish Mastiff puppy can vary depending on factors like location, breeder reputation, and bloodline. As a rare breed, prices may range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more. It's essential to research reputable breeders and consider the long-term costs of owning a large breed dog.
Where do Kurdish Mastiffs come from?
The Kurdish Mastiff comes from Kurdistan Region of Iraq. 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 Kurdish Mastiff, supplemented with additional research. Reviewed for accuracy.