Kuchi

Coat and looks how to spot one

short, medium or long coat with thick underwool

Coat length follows the terrain: mountain dogs are heavily coated, steppe dogs carry medium to long coats and desert dogs are short to medium haired, all with a dense undercoat. Two builds are described, a heavier lion type and a more agile tiger type.1

Personality what they are like

A watchful, self-assured flock guardian with a strong sense of territory. It is loving with its own people and animals but naturally reserved and protective around strangers.1

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Bred to travel with nomadic herds, so it needs space and a purpose such as guarding livestock.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Care depends on coat type; heavier-coated mountain dogs need more regular brushing than short-coated desert dogs.1

Home where they are happiest

Suited to rural settings with livestock and room to patrol rather than city living.1

Company who they like around

Forms tight bonds with its own family and flock.1

The story where it all began

For centuries the Kuchi nomads of Afghanistan have used these large dogs to guard their sheep, goats and caravans against wolves and thieves. The harsh, varied landscape shaped several regional types, and the dogs are related to other Central Asian shepherd breeds.1

Recognised by the official bits

None

A working landrace with no formal standard or kennel club recognition; Afghanistan has no national kennel body.1