Atlas Mountain Dog (Aidi)
Other names: Berger de l’Atlas, Atlas Mountain Dog, Atlas Shepherd Dog, Berber Dog

The Aidi is a breed of dog from North Africa. Up until recently it was rarely seen out of its native lands, but its popularity elsewhere in the world is on the rise. It is used as a herder and a guardian of livestock and as such has an incredibly protective streak. An outstanding watchdog it may be, but this dog is also known to be a loving and sensitive companion.
Key facts about the Atlas Mountain Dog (Aidi)
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Origins and history
Among North African farmers (sedentary and nomadic) Aidis have been a popular choice of herding dog for centuries. It is still used today in its original role, and in Morocco the Aidi is favoured for use as a guard dog. Due to their being increasingly sought after as companion dogs, Aidis are slowly spreading into other parts of the world.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
Section
Section 2 : Molossian type
Physical characteristics of the Atlas Mountain Dog (Aidi)
Adult size
Female : Between 20 and 24 in
Male : Between 20 and 24 in
Weight
Female : Between 55 and 77 lb
Male : Between 55 and 77 lb
Coat colour
This dog’s coat is seen of white, black and tawny colours or a mixture of all of them.
Type of coat
A thick, harsh, and abundant, medium-length coat covers the dog. The fur on the face and ears is thinner than on the rest of the body. Males tend to grow a mane around their neck of especially thick fur.
Eye colour
Dark amber to golden brown.
Description
The Aidi has a muscular appearance. Its muzzle is shortish and conical. The ears are medium length and carried half-dropped and away from the cheeks. The top line slopes gently towards the croup. The tail is carried low when the dog is inactive and more jauntily when it is in motion.
Good to know
The Aidi is best known for its ability to guard livestock. It is a supreme watchdog and although it is edgy at the best of times it is fearless and will not back down from confrontations. It is also a sensitive breed of dog. The prospective owner of an Aidi must be mindful of this dog’s complicated character.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Atlas Mountain Dog (Aidi)
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Compatibility
Price
A dog of this breed could cost around £400 to purchase. Cost of care is between £80 to £110 per month.
Grooming
The Aidi needs at least twice-weekly brushing with a firm bristle brush. Bath this dog only when necessary and use a mild dog shampoo.
Shedding
This dog sheds a moderate amount of fur.
Nutrition of the Atlas Mountain Dog (Aidi)
You should feed this dog a dog food formulated to support the health of an active dog.
Health of the Atlas Mountain Dog (Aidi)
Life expectancy
Overall the Aidi is a healthy breed of dog. Its average life expectancy is 12 to 13 years.
Strong / robust
This dog is robust, fearless and headstrong. It heals very quickly from injury.
Withstand heat
The Aidi is incredibly tolerant of the heat. However, you must still make sure there is plenty of fresh water on hand for this dog.
Withstand cold
The Aidi does not tolerate cold and wet weather particularly well.
Tendency to put on weight
If an Aidi is not exercised as regularly as it should be and is fed too much human or substandard food it will become obese.
Common illnesses
- Hip And Elbow Dysplasia
- Eye Problems