Aidi Dog Breed Information

Posted on Oct 4, 2019, Modified : Jan 26, 2020 Zina

Breeds

Country of Origin	Morocco, Algeria, Libya, Tunisia
Nicknames and Other Names	Aïdi, Berber Dog, Atlas Mountain Dog, Chien de Montagne de l’Atlas, Atlas Shepherd Dog, Chien de l’Atlas
Scientific Name	Canis lupus familiaris
Breed Type	Purebred
Group	Livestock Guardian, Mountain Dog, Molossers
Bred For	Guarding livestock and Working in Mountains
Size	Medium-Sized
Recognized By	FCI, UKC
Life Span	10-12 Years
Ideal Weight	55 Pounds (male and female)
Ideal Height	20-24 Inches (male and female)
Fur Type	Coarse and longer outercoat, Soft undercoat
Common Colors	Pale Red, Tawny, White, Black, Fawn, Black and White, Brown
Markings	None
Availability	Moderately AVailable
Achievements	None
Suitable for Apartments	No
Used in World War	No
Most Similar To	Shetland Sheepdog

Aidi is a North African dog breed that was used as a livestock guardian dog. It is known commonly as Kabyle Dog and many different names including Atlas Mountain Dog, Chien de Montagne de l’Atlas, Chien de l’Atlas, and Berber Dog. They were also used as a hunting dog that used to track prey through scent.

Aidi is a first professionally bred dog breed that has a long history in North Africa as a working and hunting dog. The body is lean but strong and muscular that is covered with a short or medium length, dense coat. The ears are folded or half-cocked which is often hidden by their long hair.

Origin and History

The Aidi was originated in Morocco, Algeria as a guarding of the livestock in the Atlas Mountain. It used to protect its owner and his properties from preditors, wildcats, and strangers.

This breed has never worked with sheep but also it was called the Atlas Sheepdog in 1963, which was corrected in 1969. Its job was to stand and watch until they sense predators and bark loudly to warn about their approach. The Pariah hound and Aidi are believed to share the same ancestry.

The United Kennel Club recognized Aidi on July 1, 2006, as a member of the Guardian Dogs.

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The temperament of the Aidi is alert, protective, and loving of their family. They are highly protective of their people and properties as the guarding instinct runs in their blood. They make excellent watchdogs that will look after the family Aidi is also affectionate and gentle with the family which makes it an excellent family pet.

Behavior: Aidi is a very protective dog as it was bred for guarding purposes only. They are also a highly energetic dog that is only suitable in an open place where they can run and roam around. If you cannot meet up with their energy level, it is best to not own this breed. If they are not provided with activities, they become destructive.

Aidi dog running on the field.
Image Source: Animals Adda

Personality: The personality of the Aidi is gentle, sweet, and playful with the family. They are very suspicious of the stranger and will bark at them if they saw one approaching them. WIth other pets in the house, they need to be raised together from a small age.

Trainability

Training Aidi is not a tough task to do if you are an experienced dog owner that knows the way with dogs. Aidi is an intelligent dog breed that can catch up with commands and instructions quickly. Train them with firmness and consistency.

Use a positive method of training and reward them with delicious treats and vocal praises. This will encourage them and keep them focused on the training session.

Is Aidi Child-Friendly?

Aidi gets along with children very well due to their loving and friendly nature. With family kids, they are loving and protective but while taking them out to interact with other kids, keep them on a leash and introduce them properly. Always supervise their interaction with any children closely.

Aidi playimg with its master and a baby on the beach — Aidi playing with its master and a baby on the beach.
Image Source: Instagram-@vasco_rodrigues70

Facts

The American Kennel Club has not yet recognized Aidi.

Health Issues

General Health	Healthy
Common Health Issues	Hip Dysplasia, Eye Problems, Cataracts
Hypoallergenic	No
Vaccination Required	Canine Parvovirus, Kennel Cough, Canine Parainfluenza, Leptospirosis, Rabies, Canine Coronavirus, Canine Distemper
Shedding	Moderate Shedder
Drooling	Average Drooler
Grooming	Easy and Minimal Grooming Required
Weight Gain Potential	Average
Separation Anxiety	Moderate Chance
Allergies	None
Diets and Supplements	Protein: 25% Fat: 8% Omegs-3 and 6 Fatty Acids Digestie Enzymes Multivitamins

Aidi is a healthy dog breed in general that can face few genetic or canine health problems.

Hip Dysplasia: It is caused due to genetic where the hip joint is either underdeveloped or dislocated from its original place. It can cause sharp pain on the back making it difficult for your dog to move from one place to another.
Obesity: When your dog’s body is contained with more fat than in general, it is facing the problem of obesity. The main cause is improper eating habits and eating lots of fat-containing food. So, feed them in the right amount and a completely balanced diet. Involve them in regular physical exercise as well.