Aidi Dog Breed (Complete Guide)

The Aidi Dog Overview

The Aidi is a breed that originated in the Atlas Mountains of Northern Africa and is not often found in the rest of the globe today.

Traditionally used as a guard dog by farms, it is a multi-purpose animal with a keen sense of smell, making it a capable hunter as well.

The Aidi, known for its bravery and protective instincts, is a remarkable watchdog that has kept herds of sheep and goats safe for ages throughout Northern Africa (Morocco, Libya, Tunisia and Algeria).

They have recently established themselves as family pets, particularly in rural houses where they can stay active and have plenty of access to the outdoors.

This breed, which can be sensitive at times and is normally autonomous, requires an experienced owner who applies tough and consistent training methods.

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Aidi Highlights

Aidi Breed Features & Ratings:

Rated base on a 5 Star Scale
ENERGY LEVEL:                                4 Star
EXERCISE REQUIREMENTS:           4 Star
PLAYFULNESS:                                 5 Star
AFFECTION LEVEL:                           5 Star
FRIENDLINESS TO DOGS:                5 Star
FRIENDLINESS TO OTHER PETS:    5 Star
FRIENDLINESS TO STRANGERS:     5 Star
WATCHFULNESS:                             5 Star
EASE OF TRAINING:                         5 Star
GROOMING REQUIREMENTS:         5 Star
HEAT SENSITIVITY:                          5 Star
VOCALITY                                        5 Star

Aidi Characteristics:


  • Dog Breed Group:  Working Dogs
  • Height:  21-24 inches (53-61 cm)
  • Weight:  50-55 pounds (23-25 kg)
  • Life Span: 10 to 15 years 
  • Type: Purebred 
  • AREA OF ORIGIN: Morocco  
  • DATE OF ORIGIN: 1969
  • OTHER NAMES:  Aïdi, Atlas Mountain Dog, Atlas Shepherd Dog, Berber Dog, Chien de l’Atlas, Chien de Montagne de l’Atlas, Kabyle Dog
  • Temperament: Agile, Alert, Energetic, Powerful, Protective, Sensitive
  • Color: Black, Black & White, Brown, Tawny, White
  • Litter Size: 5 to 8 puppies 
  • Puppy Prices: Aids is extremely rare and, as a result, difficult to discover. You should expect to pay $450 to $1,100 if you get your puppy from a reputable breeder.

Aidi Health:

The Aidi is one of the healthiest dog breeds available, as it is not genetically predisposed to any known health disorders.

Every dog is unique, and this does not guarantee that any specific Aidi will not develop ill during its lifetime.

The Aidi, like all dogs, should have regular health checkups at the vet and be up to date on immunizations and anti-parasite medication.

Aidi Grooming:

The Aidi’s thick, dense double coat necessitates regular and consistent maintenance. Their outside coat is rough and gritty, while their undercoat is silky and smooth.

They have one or two full moults every year and shed significantly in between. They need to be brushed on a regular basis, at least once a week, to distribute their natural oils over their entire coat.

It is critical that they are not over-bathed, since this will cause their coat’s waterproofing ability to deteriorate. Bathing once or twice a year is adequate.

Their eyes and ears, like those of all dogs, should be checked on a regular basis for any odd build-up or discharge.

It is critical to get your Aidi used to you inspecting these things on a regular basis, possibly during their weekly grooming appointment.

If their claws become too long, they can be trimmed.

Their teeth should be checked for the presence of any yellow or brown calculus, and daily tooth cleaning should begin when they are puppies to ensure they will tolerate it.

Aidi Exercise:

Aidis have a strong will to play, and they will not relent. Interactive games like fetch, tag, and frisbee toss benefit these dogs.

They are an excellent companion if you want to incorporate a little more activity into your everyday routine.

Aidis will gladly accompany you for a stroll through the neighborhood or a hike in the woods. These canines require at least one hour of exercise per day to burn off their excess energy.

If you have a securely fenced-in yard, your Aidi will like going outside to bark at birds and jump around.

If your Aidi does not get enough physical activity, he or she may develop destructive tendencies.

You may avoid this by providing them with plenty of room, a variety of toys, and opportunities to engage with you.

Aidi Training:

This lively and frequently anxious dog necessitates the services of an expert trainer who will be constant in his firmness and patience.

Because the Aidi is a sensitive dog who does not respond well to criticism or punishment, the trainer should be calm and employ positive reinforcement tactics (which would usually result in mistrust of their trainer and a lack of responsiveness).

They have the ability to become dominating and are known to swiftly pick up on negative behaviors.

Training should begin as soon as possible and be intensive in order to prevent the Aidi from becoming an aggressive or overly shy adult dog.

When done correctly, training may be especially beneficial with this breed.

Aidi Food and Nutrition:

Because of their great energy, Aidis thrive on high-quality dry kibble dog food.

Make sure the recipe is heavy in protein, as this will refill their muscle power. Fillers such as corn, wheat, and soy should be avoided.

There are no breed-specific dietary requirements for these dogs. However, it is preferable if you fed your dog according to their weight and life stage at all times.

Feed your canine with dry kibble, wet food, a combination of the two, or even raw or homemade meals.

When puppies first arrive at their new home, they should gently transition from their current puppy chow to a new diet.

Always contact your veterinarian before making any dietary modifications on your own.

Aidi Temperament and Personality:

The Aidi is a magnificent North African herding dog. Because these dogs were designed to be on watch at all times, you may find that your dog’s attention is always drawn to any disturbance or activity.

They excel at yard games and other workouts because of their enthusiasm and playfulness. These canines require early socialization.

They are amiable, but without exposure to others and animals, they might become aloof and possessive. To be at their happiest, an Aidi may require an only-dog family.

These dogs are constantly on the lookout for any hint of change or potential threat in the home.

They are always on call, ready to defend their hearth and home. They make excellent watch and guard dogs with proper training.

Aidis are also quite intelligent, which makes them simple to work with. They enjoy having chores to complete and will gladly accompany you on any errands you need to run.

Even though these dogs can be aloof at times, they are also affectionate and kind.

Aidi Care/Upkeep:

The Aidi is a fiercely loyal and naturally protective breed and is naturally apprehensive of strangers.

While they are generally sweet and caring with their family, they can turn aggressive with strangers, especially if they perceive a threat to their territory.

Because of their strength and proclivity to exhibit antagonism, the Aidi must be socialized with other people and animals at a young age in order to teach them to be more accepting of those beyond the immediate family.

Given their job background, the Aidi will be the first to detect any unusual sound, smell, or movement inside or outside the house and faithfully bark to notify their owner of the potential threat.

They are not naturally trustworthy and are constantly on watch. This makes them the ideal pet for a family that needs a security dog.

This active breed is best suited to a country or outdoor lifestyle and should not be kept in an apartment or small house. They benefit from daily long walks and flourish when let to run free in vast, fenced-in areas.

Under-exercising the Aidi is nearly certain to result in undesirable behaviors and should be avoided.

Remember that this is a breed that has evolved to be continually vigilant and to monitor a herd. They are never sluggish, are always alert, and have good stamina and endurance when they are outside.

Aidi Relationship with Children and Other Pets

Aidi’s can be a lovely addition to a variety of homes and lifestyles.

These dogs enjoy being on the move with you and then relaxing when the time comes. You might even notice your Aidi guarding the space at the foot of your child’s bed at night.

The Aidi was designed to be exceptionally good with youngsters. They are excellent caregivers, continuously cooing over children.

They will also be excellent household protectors. If your dog suspects that one of your children is in danger, he or she will be the first to intervene.

The Aidi will crave attention and will want to be a part of your daily activities. These characteristics combine to create the Aidi, a fantastic companion animal that will stick by your side.

As long as they are well-socialized and mannered, they may perform quite well in households with older persons or youngsters.

When it comes to humans, the Aidi is quite endearing. They may make friends with your company, but it may take some time for them to warm up.

They must first assess the individual to determine that they are not a threat.

Unfortunately for multi-dog households, Aidis dislikes other dogs and may be violent or possessive.

If you already have a dog, this breed may not be for you. They may get along great if raised together, but it’s a risk you might not want to take.

This breed should only be kept if it is the only dog in the house. If you only want to have one pet at a time, this attribute may work to your advantage.

Aidi Names 

RankBoy NamesGirl Names
01BuddyMolly
02MaxBella
03TobyCoco
04JackLuna
05RockyAbbie
06TuckerEllie
07OliverZoey
08OscarStella
09TeddyGracie
10BaileyPe

All About Aidi

The Aidi’s slim, muscular body is protected by a coarse, thick, weather-resistant coat with a heavy plumed tail, standing 53–61 cm (21–24 in) tall and weighing approximately 55 pounds (25 kg). The coat is thick and plush.

The breed’s muzzle is tapering, and the nose is usually black or brown to match the coat. Their jaws are powerful, with close-fitting black or brown lips.

The medium-sized ears are slightly pointed forward and droop. Medium-sized eyes with a dark tint and dark rims.

White, black, black and white, pale red, and tawny are the coat colors.

The Aidi is a highly energetic and protective breed that is thought to make an excellent watchdog. It is a strong dog that is also agile, attentive, and prepared to act.

Due to the breed’s sensitivity, proper training should begin at a young age. It should be exposed to as many social situations as possible in order to develop into an excellent family pet.

Aidi History:

The Aidi (Berber for dog) is a breed that originated in North Africa (Atlas Mountains of Morocco).

Despite the fact that the 1963 standard was published under the name Atlas Sheepdog, the dog has never functioned as a sheepdog; this was amended in 1969.

The Aidi was a valiant dog who lived and worked in North Africa’s Atlas Mountains, guarding his master and property from wildcats, other predators, and intruders. 

Historically, the Aidi was not held in high regard by the tribes, as most dogs are not, with the exception of the Sloughi and other noble breeds. 

Moroccans, on the other hand, have lately founded a club to safeguard the breed’s purity, which has served in a variety of capacities, including guardian, hunter, police dog, and pet. 

Although the Aidi was primarily used as a working dog, he has become more popular in the country as a home dog.

This breed also makes an excellent city pet if he is provided with sufficient tasks and exercise to keep him satisfied and happy. 

They share numerous characteristics with other livestock guardian dog breeds in terms of color and flock guard work.

Where to Adopt Aidi:

Looking for Aidi dogs for adoption? Is your family ready to rescue a Aidi puppy?

Visit the page puppyfinder.com, they have everything you need to choose the right Aidi dog breeder, Aidi dogs for adoption for your family from around the world. They will offer you adoption lists.

More Dog Breeds and Further Research:

If you want a similar breed, consider reading about these:

Aidi Fun Facts:

  • The Aidi is a playful breed. Excited barking and sometimes nipping will alert you to play.
  • Aidis don’t like an irregular daily routine, noisy household and frequent guest visits. This breed emotional level reflects their owner’s feelings and they don’t handle punishments well.
  • Aidis need for social interaction is average. This breed likes being around people or other animals, but they don’t mind being left alone for a few hours either.
  • Aidis are highly affectionate dogs. They like being involved in the family’s life. This breed isn’t considered as an aloof dog.
  • Aidis adapt to lifestyle changes and different living environments quite okay usually.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):

Do Aidi dogs shed?

The Aidi should be taken for long daily walks. The coat is easy to groom and needs little attention. Brush occasionally with a firm bristle brush and bathe only when necessary. This breed is an average shedder.

How longg do Aidi dogs live?

The average lifespan for the Aidi bred is about 12 years.

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