Overview
The Aidi is a livestock guardian native to the Atlas Mountains of North Africa, most common in Morocco, with populations in Algeria, Tunisia and Libya. Morocco holds its FCI standard.
Besides guarding, it hunts by scent and is often paired with the Sloughi. It is also kept as a police dog and companion.
History
The Aidi has long lived with Berber tribes, guarding people, property and herds from wild cats, predators and strangers. It shares some ancestry with pariah dogs, and the most alert dogs were posted around nomad camps at night.
A 1963 standard called it the Atlas Sheepdog, but it never herded, and the name was corrected in 1969. A Moroccan club now works to preserve the breed.
Appearance
A lean, muscular dog standing 52 to 62 cm and weighing about 25 kg. The coat is thick, coarse and weather-resistant, with a heavy plumed tail and a bear-like head.
The muzzle tapers, the nose is black or brown, and medium ears fold forward. In parts of Morocco ears are cropped and tails docked.
Temperament
Brave and watchful, the Aidi is protective of its family and territory and wary of strangers. It is energetic and needs a purpose.
With enough tasks and exercise it can become a contented companion even in urban surroundings.
Care and exercise
Provide plenty of daily exercise, secure fencing and early socialisation. A bored Aidi may bark or roam, so give it activity and a role.
Brush the dense coat weekly, more in shedding season.
