Today, we are looking at The Aidi Dog and trying to find out a bit more about them and also to see if they could be a good fit for you.
History
Table Of Contents
Where is the Aidi dog from?
The Aidi dog is a Berber breed that is used in Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Libya as livestock guardians. This breed is very well-suited to the role of a livestock guardian, as it has excellent scenting abilities and a great ability to hunt.
The Aidi breed’s roots may be traced back to North Africa, with the majority of evidence indicating that it originated in the Sahara region.
In the Atlas Mountains of Libya, Morocco, and Algeria, this breed was developed to act as a guard dog, protecting its masters from predators.
Although the Aidi is also referred to as the Berber, it has been known by a variety of other names, including the Chien de l’Atlas – it was even mistakenly labeled as the Atlas Sheepdog when the first breed standard was published in 1963, despite the fact that the breed was never used as a working sheepdog.
1969 was the year that this error was remedied. Although the Aidi was originally designed to be a hunter and guardian, it has recently gained popularity as a house dog, and when given adequate exercise, it can thrive in an urban environment.
Character & Temperament
As a livestock protector, the Aidi dog’s agility and alertness are understandable given the breed’s long history. This dog has strong protective instincts and maybe a little leery of strangers when they first meet them.
To ensure that this breed gets along with other dogs and people, it is important to begin socialization and training as soon as possible after purchase.
This breed performs particularly well as a watchdog, but it is also a good choice as a companion dog for the family. When properly bred, this breed may be extremely friendly and loyal to its owners and their children.
Health Concerns & Keeping Them Healthy
The Aidi breed is, for the most part, fairly healthy and does not have a high risk of having major health problems. In contrast to this, as is true of all dogs, this breed may be more prone to acquiring certain disorders such as hip dysplasia, eye issues, and elbow dysplasia than other breeds.
Weight
45 to 55 pounds in weight is a normal healthy level for these dogs.
Coat Care
It has a coarse, weather-resistant coat that is medium in length on the Aidi breed. Its coat is very thick for a dog of African heritage, despite the fact that it is a large breed.
The coat of the breed is available in a number of colors, including black, white, red, and tawny – the nose color is usually the same as the coat color.
Grooming is required on a regular and consistent basis for the Aidi, due to their thick, dense double coat. They have an outer coat that is hard and gritty, but an undercoat that is velvety to the touch and smooth. They will go through one or two full molts a year, and they will shed considerably in the intervals between them.
To ensure that their natural oils are evenly distributed throughout their entire coat, they should be brushed on a regular basis: at least once a week.
If they are over-bathed, the weatherproofing quality of their coat will be compromised, and they will become exposed to the elements more quickly.
Bathing only once or twice a year will be plenty for most owners of these dogs.
Dogs’ eyes and ears should be checked on a regular basis for any odd build-up or discharge, just like any other canine.
Getting your Aidi acclimated to you checking these things on a regular basis from a young age, possibly during their weekly grooming appointment, is critical.
If their claws become very long, they can be trimmed.
When they are puppies, their teeth should be checked for the accumulation of any yellow or brown calculus, and daily dental cleaning should be initiated to ensure that they are tolerant of the procedure.
Exercise Requirements
Aidi thrives in urban environments, provided that it receives regular daily exercise. If possible, this breed would benefit from some active playing and free time in a large, fenced yard.
This breed is quite energetic and requires a lengthy daily walk; it would also benefit from some active playtime and free time in an enclosed yard.
The key to preventing the development of undesirable behaviors in this breed is to ensure that it receives adequate mental and physical stimulation.
Life Expectancy
With plenty of care and a good diet and exercise combined, these guys can live for around 12 years.
Trainability
This high-energy and frequently anxious dog requires a skilled trainer who will maintain a consistent level of firmness and patience.
Because the Aidi is recognized for being a sensitive dog who does not respond well to criticism or punishment, the trainer should maintain calm and use positive reinforcement tactics when training the dog (which would usually result in mistrust of their trainer and a lack of responsiveness).
They have the capacity to become domineering, and they have been shown to swiftly pick up on negative behaviors.
Training should begin as early as possible, and it will need to be rigorous in order to prevent the Aidi from developing into an aggressive or too shy adult dog.
The rewards of training can be particularly great with this breed if it is done properly.
How Much Are They To Buy?
How much is an Aidi puppy?
You will be looking at somewhere in the region of $800 t0 $1000 for a puppy and as always do your due diligence and ask the right questions.
Summary
While it is possible to find an Aidi or an Aidi mix at a local rescue or shelter this is despite the fact that the breed is rare.
If you are lucky enough to locate an Aidi from a rescue center, then you can rest assured that these dogs have had thorough vetting, have been spayed or neutered, and have no history of health difficulties.
Aidi puppies may not be as readily available, but you may be able to locate an adult Aidi that is in dire need of affection. Again, you can use the breeder route for this.
These are exceptional canines with wonderful temperaments who get along well with children and other family members.
Very intelligent, as well as very loyal.
