Overview
The Zerdava comes from the mountainous Black Sea region of north-east Turkey, where villagers used it to hunt small game and birds and to guard the house door, which is what its other name means. It is a medium-sized, lean dog with a short coat, often black or dark with tan or white markings, and a quick, watchful manner.
Outside Turkey it is barely known, and most of what can be said is about the type: a versatile rural hunter with a protective streak.
Exercise and walking needs
Around ninety minutes a day, split in two, with a chance to move at speed and use the nose. The breed worked steep, wooded country and is agile and fit.
Hide-and-seek with a toy and basic scent games are a sensible stand-in for hunting.
Daily minimum90 minutes
Ideal2 walks a day
Off-lead timeNot until proven
On the walk
- Hunting: Birds, squirrels and rabbits will catch its attention. Assume a chase is possible and keep the lead on near roads.
- Guarding: A dog bred to watch the door may bark at or stand off from strangers. Give it room and keep introductions calm.
- Recall: Treat as unproven. Hunting dogs of this type range and hunt independently.
- Other dogs: Reports vary. Some are sociable, others sharp with unfamiliar dogs. Walk alone until you know.
Tips for professional walkers
- Begin with a handover meeting at the house so the dog sees the owner accept you.
- Keep to quiet routes without livestock while you learn its triggers.
- Use a well-fitted harness; a lean dog can slip a collar.
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
- Has the dog been used for hunting, and what does it do when it sees birds or small animals?
- How does it behave toward visitors and strangers on walks?
- Does it get on with other dogs, and does it have any friends it walks with?