The Aidi dog breed, which is also known as the Atlas Mountain dog, Atlas Sheepdog or the Berber is known to have been originating from the Atlas Mountains of Northern Africa. These dogs are known for their affectionate nature towards their owner. The Aidi is one of those courageous and protective dogs which would love to stay by your side throughout their entire life.
If you were looking for a multi-purpose dog, then Aidi would be a considerable choice. These dogs can be a wonderful companion on a hunting trip due to their excellent sense of smell. Along with that, they are great guardian and companions dogs too.
Aidi History
The Aidi is known to be largely connected to Morocco. Most of the people believe that these dogs originated from the Atlas Mountains which stretches across Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria. They are considered to be the descendants of the Great Pyreneese. There is a group of people who believe that these dogs originated from the Eastern Mediterranean coast but later came further west alongwith the Phoenicians, which was an ancient civilization that remained between 1550BC to 300BC.
It is pretty clear that people are not sure of their origins but one thing that is for sure is that Aidis existed in this region for centuries and were used by families for protection against the wild. They were also used for the purpose of herding. Recently, these dogs have been paired with Sloughi to create a dynamic hunting duo. These dogs are well known for their loyalty, high intelligent and affectionate nature. Although these dogs are gaining popularity now, it is still quite rare to find these dogs outside the African regions.
Aidi Characteristics
The Aidi is a medium-sized dog which is known to have a height of 20-24 inches. These dogs weigh around 50-55 pounds. The Aidi has a thick double coat, which helps it withstand the extremities of the weather and protect itself from predator. They have a bear-like head and a narrow muzzle and a well developed mane which grows downwards from their ears to neck.
They have folded ears which are covered with their long hair. Their eyes are dark and long, typically brown or amber in color. The Aidis are known to have a muscular build with sturdy legs and chest which gives them an athletic look. These dogs can be found in brindle, black, brown, tawny, pale red and white color. Overall, the Aidi has a bushy look.
Aidi Temperament/Personality
Aidis have an affectionate as well as a protective nature. These dogs are known for their loyalty and can prove out to be great guardians. These dogs are highly sensitive in comparison with other breeds so, you are supposed to give them a good amount of attention and time. Since they have a highly protective nature, they do not mingle with strangers or other pets. It is your responsibility to socialize them from a younger age to prevent any mishaps. Due to their highly sensitive nature, we would advise you to use a positive reinforcement technique to train them.
Caring for Aidi
Like other dogs, it is your responsibility to take out time to take a good care of the Aidi. By reading the information which we have shared with you below, you will be able to do that much efficiently.
Aidi Nutrition
Aidis are quite an active dog so, you should plan their diet accordingly. The best food for such dogs is usually dry dog food. We would suggest you to feed them atleast 2 cups of Kennel every day. You can divide it into two portions and feed them at equal intervals.
You should avoid overfeeding your Aidi because this can lead to disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia and even obesity. We would suggest you to consult a veterinarian to get the exact diet plan which is suitable for the size and age of your dog.
Aidi Grooming
The Aidis are known to be moderate shedders so, it is comparatively easier to maintain these dogs. You will only see a peak in their shedding during the shedding season. We would suggest you to brush them atleast twice a week to avoid tangling and matting. You should use a pin brush in this regard. During the high shedding seasons you have to brush them on a regular basis. You should not bathe them more often because their coat has natural oils which help them in resisting weather conditions. Alongwith this, you should also brush their teeth atleast twice a week and check their ear for any dirt deposits. You should keep a keen check on their cleanliness overall.
Aidi Activity Levels
Since these dogs were used as working dogs for a long time, they require a high amount of activities to get satisfied. The Aidi is known to have a higher activity level. These dogs love to play in yards so, if you have one, you can plan a good amount of activities for them there.
We would not suggest you to go for an Aidi if you are an apartment dweller. The Aidi requires upto 12 miles of running or walking every week. We would suggest you to take them on a walk for atleast 45 minutes daily. You can also arrange some mentally stimulating activities for these intelligent dogs.
Aidi Maintenance
The Aidi is known to require a moderate amount of maintenance to stay fit. It is your responsibility to keep a keen check on their cleanliness and hygiene to avoid them encountering any bacterial infections. You should also take them for medical examinations frequently to ensure that they are maintaining a good health.
Aidi Health
The Aidi is one of the healthiest dog breed and is not known to have any major inherited health disorders. Thus means, they are not susceptible to any major diseases naturally. However, this is not a proof that they will always stay healthy.
The Aidi can suffer from disorders like hip and elbow dysplasia and can even have eye problems. These dogs can also face patellar luxation but it is usually rare. On average, the Aidi lives upto 10-12 years if they stay healthy.
Breeds Similar to Aidi
Best Dog Food for Aidis
The best dog food for Aidis is Merrick Real Texas Beef + Sweet Potato Recipe Dog Food. The recipe is aptly designed for efficiently supporting your Aidi’s digestive and immune response. To ensure that your Aidi is in good health, the makers have thoughtfully maintained a higher proportion of protein and healthy fats along with an apt amount of other dietary essentials.
- Features a fairly considerable amount of antioxidants which are apt for supporting the digestive response
- Enriched with minerals like calcium and glucosamine, which helps in strengthening your Aidi’s bones and joints
- Features an apt amount of omega fatty acids, which helps in maintaining a healthier coat and skin
Best Puppy Food for Aidis
The best puppy food for Aidis is Wellness Complete Health Puppy Food, as this puppy food is designed to provide the ideal amount of every dietary component. With this meal, your Aidi will get the required amount of proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals, and other dietary essentials like antioxidants, and probiotics which are essential for an apt development of a healthy digestive system of Aidi puppies. Since most of the ingredients in this meal are sourced naturally, it is suitable for your Aidi puppy.
- The recipe is devoid of any fillers.
- The makers have avoided the use of any meat by-products or artificial flavors.
- The recipe lacks grain, so the formulation is pretty simple and easier to digest
Best Dog Crate for Aidis
The best dog crate for Aidis is Frisco Fold & Carry Dog Crate. The structure of this crate has been designed to stay rigid even after long-term use, as the makers have welded the wires pretty well. The wires are further electro-coated to ensure that the wires do not catch rust with time.
- Features a well-designed plastic base pan which can lift the weight of a full-grown Aidi
- Features a fold & carry design, so it will be easier to carry this crate on trips.
- A divider panel comes along the crate, so you can use it to adjust the space occupied by your Aidi as per his size.
Best Dog Bed for Aidis
The best dog bed for Aidis is K&H Pet Products Orthopedic Bolster Dog Bed. This dog bed is designed to provide immense relief in pain associated with joint disorders, such as hip dysplasia. Since an Aidi is prone to encounter hip and elbow dysplasia, this bed, which is designed using high-quality orthopedic foam, would be an excellent choice.
- Features bolster on three sides for providing a better headrest.
- The bolsters are filled using polyfills, so it is extremely soft and comfy.
- Features a 3-inch medical grade foam, covered in a super-soft microfleece fabric
Best Dog Harness for Aidis
The best dog harness for Aidis is Mighty Paw Padded Sports Reflective Dog Harness. This dog harness is designed to optimize your Aidi’s comfort, along with a hassle-free experience at the user’s end. For this purpose, the makers have efficiently padded the harness at the chest and at the back-side.
- Features a dual-clip leash attaching option
- The non-restrictive design of this harness allows your Aidi to move his shoulder without any difficulty.
- The harness is designed using materials that are resistant to weather changes.
Best Dog Collar for Aidis
The best dog collar for Aidis is Nite Ize NightHowl LED Safety Dog Collar. This dog collar is designed in a way that lets your take your Aidi for a long walk at night as well. The makers have used a transparent thermoplastic rubber to design this collar that is installed with two LEDs; therefore, you are able to spot your Aidi easily in the dark as well.
- The LEDs feature different flash modes.
- The material used is resistant to weather changes.
- Available in five different colors, so you can choose the one which catches your interest
Best Dog Muzzle for Aidis
The best dog muzzle for Aidis is Baskerville Ultra Dog Muzzle, as this dog muzzle’s snout piece would perfectly fit your Aidi’s snout. The makers have instilled a special neoprene padding at the straps to make this muzzle more comfortable to wear. Since this muzzle is made using a weather-resistant material, it can be used in all seasons.
- Features a well-ventilated basket-like design
- Designed ergonomically for a better experience
- An excellent choice for behavioral modification programs
Best Dog Toys for Aidis
The best dog toy for better training and fun for your Aidi is KONG Classic Dog Toy. This dog toy helps in practicing a positive reinforcement method during training sessions. Aidis love such sessions, and they tend to learn more during these sessions and have immense fun.
- Designed to have a secret treat hiding space, which encourages your Aidi
- Veterinarian recommends this dog toy for fetching and training games.
- Features a great bounce, which is loved by your Aidi
Best Dog Brush for Aidis
The best dog brush for Aidis is KONG Dog ZoomGroom Dog Brush. This brush is an ideal brush for performing various tasks, as it not only helps in removing surface tangles and loose hair efficiently but is great at massaging your Aidi’s coat as well. This dog brush will help you bring back the shine to your Aidi’s coat by redistributing natural coat oils.
- Designed to pick dead hair in the most efficient manner
- Can be used for massaging during bathing sessions as well
- Stimulates your Aidi’s hair growth
Best Dog Shampoo for Aidis
The best dog shampoo for Aidis is Burt’s Bees Oatmeal Shampoo. This shampoo would help you make your Aidi refreshed and happy. The use of colloidal oat flour helps in retaining the moisture and treat skin dryness issues. Overall, this shampoo is great for cleansing your Aidi’s coat as well.
- Does not contain any harsh chemicals
- Does not have any artificial fragrance
- Features a well-regulated pH to avoid dryness
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