Overview
The Vikhan is a sheepdog of the guardian type, kept in the high valleys of Chitral to protect flocks from predators. It is big, long-coated and built for cold mountain nights. Very little has been written about it, and almost none of it concerns life as a pet in a British town.
What can be said with confidence is how livestock guardians behave in general: they bond to their territory and their people, think for themselves, and treat strangers of all kinds with suspicion.
Exercise and walking needs
Guardians do not need long walks; an hour of calm movement a day is plenty for most adults. They were bred to patrol and rest, not to run.
Avoid high-energy games. A quiet walk on familiar ground followed by time to lie and watch suits the type far better.
Daily minimum60 minutes
Ideal1 walk a day
Off-lead timeNever
On the walk
- Strangers: Expect a dog that watches people and other dogs closely and does not want contact. Give it space and keep walks away from crowds.
- Recall: Livestock guardians are independent by design. Assume there is none and keep the lead on.
- Strength: Even a calm fifty kilo dog is a lot to hold if it decides to move. Use a strong fixed lead and a harness or collar that will not slip.
- Heat: The thick coat is for the Hindu Kush. Walk early in summer and keep to shade.
Tips for professional walkers
- Walk alone with this dog rather than in a group until the owner says otherwise.
- Keep introductions to new people slow and never let a stranger reach over the dog.
- Watch for mats behind the ears and in the trousers after wet walks.
Every dog is an individual. Treat this as a starting point and go with what the owner tells you about their dog. Anything to do with health belongs with the owner and their vet.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to unfamiliar dogs and people on a lead, and has it ever shown aggression?
- What is its daily routine at home, and is a walk part of it or a new addition?
- Is there anyone else the dog already accepts, and how were they introduced?