Aidi

The Aidi needs at least two hours of active enrichment daily, a considerable part of which should consist of tasks that challenge its mind. Pure walking rounds on familiar paths do not fully meet its needs.

Forms of exercise that correspond to its profile: extensive field work in difficult terrain, nose work with varying tasks, structured territory work on a secured property. Sports such as mantrailing or protection sports can be meaningful supplements but require experienced handling.

It tolerates being left alone for up to about five hours if its territory is clearly defined and secured. Permanent isolation without a task leads to undesirable territorial behaviour; the dog begins to set boundaries independently, which can become problematic in a household context.

A secured property is not an option but a prerequisite. The Aidi needs a clearly demarcated territory that it recognises as its own and can protect. Pure apartment keeping without a controllable outdoor area does not meet its basic needs.

Mentally, it needs an owner with calm, consistent handling and reliable structure. Pressure or inconsistent rules lead to it interpreting situations independently, with results that the owner cannot always foresee. Regular training sessions with a clear goal are more important than sporadic intensive enrichment.

The Aidi is considered a robust, primitive breed without the breed-typical civilisation problems documented in many modern breeding lines. The life expectancy is 10 to 13 years according to available information, although systematic long-term studies are lacking due to the small population size in Europe.

Hip dysplasia (HD) is the most frequently documented orthopaedic disease in large and medium-sized dogs. For the Aidi, there are no reliable breed-specific HD prevalence studies with a sufficient sample size. Due to the limited and partly poorly documented breeding base outside North Africa, an HD examination of both parent dogs before purchase is mandatory, not optional.

Skin problems can occur in poorly managed lines but are not classified as a main breed-typical problem. The medium-length, dense coat requires intensive care during the twice-yearly shedding periods and daily checks for matting and parasites.

Overweight is not a primary risk for sufficiently exercised Aidis kept in a species-appropriate manner. However, with restricted movement and incorrect feeding, it can develop quickly and exacerbate orthopaedic predispositions.

Preventive examinations that a responsible owner should plan for: annual veterinary check-up, HD screening of parent dogs before purchase, eye examination in puppyhood and regular dental checks. For imported dogs from North Africa, a complete parasitological examination is required immediately after entry.

The acquisition costs for an Aidi from serious, documented breeding in Europe are, where available, between 800 and 1,500 EUR. Offers significantly below this often originate from unregulated imports without health documentation; here, follow-up costs due to unknown pre-existing conditions must be factored in.

The annual living costs consist of: food (high-quality dry food or BARF for a medium to large dog) approx. 600–900 EUR/year, grooming (brushing, occasional professional care during coat change) approx. 100–200 EUR/year, basic equipment (lead, collar, transport box, sleeping area) one-off approx. 200–400 EUR.

Basic veterinary care (vaccinations, annual check-up, parasite prevention) is approx. 300–500 EUR/year. For imported dogs from North Africa, additional parasitological examinations should be planned in the first year (approx. 100–200 EUR).

Dog liability insurance is strongly recommended for a dog with pronounced protective behaviour; the annual premium is 80–150 EUR depending on the provider and coverage amount. Pet insurance or an emergency fund of at least 2,000–3,000 EUR for unforeseen veterinary interventions should be planned.

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