Kurdish Mastiff
Also called Pshdar dog, Pişder dog, Assyrian Shepherd
From The mountains of the Kurdistan Region of Iraq, especially the Pishdar area of Sulaymaniyah Governorate.1
At a glance the quick version
Coat and looks how to spot one
mastiff-type body, mostly tawny coat
A massive mastiff-type guardian, mostly tawny in colour, with a long tail.1
Personality what they are like
A strong, loyal flock guardian that takes its job of protecting livestock seriously.1
Daily activity how busy a day looks
Bred to guard flocks in the mountains, so it needs space and a working role.1
Home where they are happiest
Best kept in a rural setting with livestock.1
Company who they like around
Closely tied to its shepherd family and flock.1
The story where it all began
Kurdish shepherds have relied on these large dogs for centuries to protect their flocks from predators. Western writers described them by the late 19th century, noting how closely they are tied to their home region, and they are still held in high regard by Kurdish communities.1
Fun facts for the dinner table
Recognised by the official bits
- None
- A traditional livestock guardian not recognised by major kennel clubs.1
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Kurdish Mastiff. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Kurdish Mastiff, and at what times?
Feed your Kurdish Mastiff at least two meals a day for adults, and three to four smaller meals for puppies. Consistent mealtimes help their digestion, so try to feed at the same times each day. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.2
What should a Kurdish Mastiff eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A high-quality dog food suited to large breeds is a great choice for your Kurdish Mastiff. Keep dangerous foods away, especially grapes, raisins, chocolate, onions, garlic, and xylitol, as these are very toxic to dogs. Always avoid raw meat, bones, and dairy too.3
How often should I bathe a Kurdish Mastiff?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty outdoors. The general rule is at least once every three months. Use a gentle dog shampoo to keep that tawny coat clean.4 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Kurdish Mastiff need brushing?
Brush your Kurdish Mastiff weekly to keep its coat healthy and remove loose hair. Furry Diary recommends a weekly brushing session, which is perfect for this mostly tawny, mastiff-type coat. It's a nice bonding time too.4 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Kurdish Mastiff's nails, and how often?
Trim your Kurdish Mastiff's nails about once a month, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick (the pink part) to avoid pain. If you're unsure, ask your vet or a groomer to show you.4 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Kurdish Mastiff need?
Your Kurdish Mastiff needs daily exercise and plenty of space to roam, as it was bred to guard flocks in the mountains. Furry Diary suggests daily walks and play, but this breed truly thrives with a working role. A large, secure yard is ideal.1 Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Kurdish Mastiff's teeth and ears?
Brush your Kurdish Mastiff's teeth several times a week using a dog-safe toothpaste, never human toothpaste. Check the ears weekly and dry them gently, as floppy ears can trap moisture. Furry Diary recommends daily brushing and weekly ear checks for best care.4 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Kurdish Mastiff live?
The lifespan of a Kurdish Mastiff can vary, so it's best to ask a good breeder or your vet for a more specific estimate. With proper care, many large dogs live around 8 to 12 years, but individual factors matter.
Is a Kurdish Mastiff good with children and other pets?
The Kurdish Mastiff is a loyal flock guardian that bonds closely with its family and livestock. It can be good with children and other pets if raised with them, but its protective nature means supervision is important. Always introduce new animals carefully.1
Can a Kurdish Mastiff be left alone?
This breed is closely tied to its shepherd family and prefers to have a job, so it does not do well when left alone for long periods. It needs company and purpose, making it best suited to a home where someone is around most of the time.1
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at support@furrydiary.app and we will fix it.
- Pshdar dog - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.