Overview
The Aidi is the working dog of the Berber herders, used to guard flocks and camps against predators and thieves in the mountains of North Africa. It is smaller and more agile than the giant guardian breeds, closer to a big, rugged mountain dog than a mastiff, with a dense weatherproof coat.
Very few live in Britain, and those that do are rarely working. Even so, the guarding instinct remains. These dogs are watchful, suspicious of the unfamiliar and loyal to a small circle. Patience and a proper introduction matter more than with almost any other breed on your books.
Exercise and walking needs
A long steady walk of an hour or so, plus a shorter outing, suits the breed. Guardians are built for stamina and vigilance rather than speed, and most are content to walk, stop, scan the horizon and walk on.
The coat is heavy. In a British summer this dog will overheat before a short-haired dog of the same size, so plan around shade and water.
On the walk
- Guarding: The dog may regard you, the car and the route as territory to protect. Strangers who approach quickly will be told to back off. Walk where you can give people a wide berth.
- Recall: Guardian breeds were bred to work without instruction and that shows. Off-lead freedom is for secure fields only, if at all.
- Other dogs: Tolerant of dogs it knows, stiff and wary with strange ones, especially large males. Not a group walk dog until you know it very well.
- Strength: Not a giant, but solid and determined. A well-fitted harness and a lead you can hold with both hands are sensible.
Tips for professional walkers
- Meet the dog at home with the owner present at least once before you walk it alone, and let it decide when to approach you.
- Choose quiet routes at quiet times; a flock guardian in a busy park is under constant pressure.
- Keep the same routine. Guardians settle when the pattern is predictable and you are part of it.
- Check the thick coat for ticks and burrs after fields and woodland.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog respond to strangers and visitors, and how should you introduce yourself?
- Has it ever shown guarding behaviour on a walk, towards people or other dogs?
- Does the dog cope with heat, and where would you like walks shortened in summer?