The Armenian Gampr, also known as the Armenian wolfhound, is a rare breed of livestock guardian dog originating from the Armenian Highlands. Used to protect and guard flocks of sheep and other livestock against predators such as wolves, bears, and jackals, this breed is a fierce protector.
Despite their relative rarity outside their homeland, there is much to admire about these affectionate and fearless dogs. They are large, strong, and headstrong with a commanding presence. As guardians, they can be fiercely protective of their charges and have unwavering loyalty to their owners..
Quick Facts
Origin:Â The Armenian Gampr originated in the Armenian Highlands, which is located in the South Caucasus region of Eurasia. It is one of the oldest dog breeds in the world, with a history dating back over 2,000 years.
Size:Â Armenian Gamprs are large dogs, typically weighing between 70 and 110 pounds and standing 25 to 30 inches tall at the shoulder.
Lifespan:Â Armenian Gamprs have a lifespan of 10-12 years.
Appearance:Â Armenian Gamprs have a thick double coat that can be any color, including black, brown, white, and brindle. They have a large head with a broad muzzle and a short tail.
Grooming:Â Armenian Gamprs require regular grooming to maintain their thick coat. Brushed them at least once a week and bathed as needed.
Health:Â Armenian Gamprs are generally healthy dogs, but they are prone to some health problems, such as hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and eye problems.
They are the national dog of Armenia.
They were originally bred to guard livestock and protect families from predators.
Given the rarity of this dog, it is unlikely that you will come across one easily. However, it is important to keep in mind that there are millions of dogs waiting for homes in shelters. Although you may not find an Armenian Gampr, you may be able to find a breed with similar characteristics such as the Bernese Mountain Dog or Akbash.
Armenian Gampr Overview
The Armenian Gampr, also known as the Armenian Wolfhound or Armenian Shepherd Dog, is a large and ancient breed of livestock guardian dog that originated in Armenia. Here’s an overview of the Armenian Gampr:
Size: The Armenian Gampr is a large breed, with males typically standing between 25 to 28 inches (64 to 72 cm) at the shoulder and weighing between 100 to 150 pounds (45 to 68 kg). Females are slightly smaller, ranging from 24 to 26 inches (61 to 66 cm) in height and weighing between 80 to 120 pounds (36 to 54 kg).
Appearance: The Gampr has a robust and muscular build, with a well-balanced body. It has a large head with a broad skull, strong jaws, and a wide muzzle. The eyes are typically dark and almond-shaped. The ears can be medium-sized and either cropped or left natural. The breed has a dense double coat with a thick undercoat, providing protection from the elements. Coat colors can vary and include shades of fawn, gray, black, brindle, and piebald.
Temperament: Armenian Gamprs are known for their loyalty, fearlessness, and intelligence. They have a strong protective instinct and are natural guardians of their families, property, and livestock. They are generally reserved with strangers and exhibit a calm and confident demeanor. When properly trained and socialized, they can also be gentle, affectionate, and good with children and other animals.
Working Abilities: Historically, the Armenian Gampr was bred as a livestock guardian dog, protecting flocks and herds from predators such as wolves and bears. They are independent thinkers and have a natural ability to assess threats and take appropriate action. Gamprs are vigilant and territorial, making them excellent guard dogs. They are known for their endurance and ability to adapt to various climates and challenging terrains.
Training and Exercise: The Armenian Gampr requires early socialization and consistent, firm, yet gentle training from an experienced owner. These dogs are intelligent and eager to please, but they can also be independent and strong-willed. Regular exercise is essential to keep them physically and mentally stimulated. They need ample space to roam, making them better suited for rural or suburban areas with large yards.
Preservation Efforts: The Armenian Gampr has faced challenges over the years, including a decline in population and genetic dilution. However, dedicated breeders and organizations, such as the Armenian Gampr Preservation Society (AGPS), have been working to preserve the breed’s ancient lineage, maintain genetic purity, and promote responsible breeding practices.
Today, the Armenian Gampr continues to be cherished and valued for its working abilities, loyalty, and connection to Armenian cultural heritage. It is gaining recognition and popularity internationally, both as a guardian of livestock and as a loyal companion.
Armenian Gampr Highlights
The Armenian Gampr is both intelligent and typically willing to learn. This means they are usually highly trainable. If adopting a young Armenian Gampr, make the most of their malleable puppyhood behaviors, and shape the behaviors you want to see as an adult.
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Daily training sessions that last 5-10 minutes (any longer can cause disinterest and backfire as far as creating progress) are key to helping this breed retain good manners and stay on track. It may be a wise idea to also enroll this breed in puppy classes or general obedience training with a professional.
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The Armenian Gampr makes a poor fit for a first-time owner. Large and in charge, this breed needs occupation through a job. Traditionally, this is livestock herding, but this breed could also be taught to perform other tasks, like agility or dock diving. These dogs need abundant & engaging daily exercise. Without proper stimulation, the Armenian Gampr will grow bored and frustrated — regardless of how much love there is for them.
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Dog parents who are frequently home or able to bring pups to work are a good match for this breed, although not a requirement. This breed should ideally be walked for at least an hour a day, although a longer trek is often even better. A walk alone will not be enough to keep this breed mentally enriched on a day-to-day basis. Mix it up a few times a week by offering different activities. This breed still craves mental stimulation they can find through training, scentwork activities, and other forms of enrichment. This breed can be prone to behaviors humans find frustrating, like excessive barking and chewing, when understimulated. They will make it endlessly clear they are bored.Â
Armenian Gampr History
The original use of the Armenian Gampr was as a flock guardian dog. These massive canines dedicated their lived to protecting flocks of sheep and goats from attack, particularly by wolves, on the upland pastures of Armenia. Sheep-herding has since declined in the country, but wolves continue to threaten flocks, so the Armenian Gampr is still in use; in 2006 some 2000 dogs were still in use for this purpose. Another traditional use of this breed is as a guard dog. They are recognized by the Armenian Kennel Club, but have yet to be recognized by any other major kennel club.
Armenian Gampr Size
The Armenian Gampr is a large and stocky guardian dog. They have long legs and dainty features. This breed can be found in any color; however, the breed is most commonly tan, sometimes with black ‘points’ on the snout and paws. They can have short or long fur but always have a thick double coat.
Armenian Gampr Personality
The Armenian Gampr is often good natured and loving with those they know well, but sometimes standoffish with those they don’t. It’s crucial to work on socialization from a young age for any dog, regardless of typical good temperament; reactivity to people or other dogs will limit them in life, such as preventing them from going to a dog-friendly restaurant or burning off energy at the dog park. Training them consistently when young will ultimately improve their quality of life (and yours) as an adult. It’s important to work on positive reinforcement training consistently and firmly, and to bring in a professional trainer if you feel that you’re starting to see behavioral issues.
Armenian Gampr Health
While there’s little data to show the health risks for Armenian Gampr, these are the most commonly reported ailments in the breed. Additionally, due to low genetic diversity, this now endangered breed may face more health issues in the future.
Armenian Gampr Care
Like all dogs, the Armenian Gampr needs daily exercise to feel content; however, they require harder work than most breeds. Ideally, this breed should receive at least an hourlong walk daily. Additionally, they enjoy indoor or outdoor play like fetch or tug-of-war. Ideally, this dog will have a ‘job’, whether that’s flyball or daily agility practice; this breed has a high bar for mental stimulation. A backyard is an absolute requirement for this breed. All of these factors make this breed unsuitable for apartment living.
Armenian Gampr Feeding
The Armenian Gampr should be fed a diet consistent with that of a large-sized breed with high energy levels. Food motivated tasks, like snuffle mats or filled toys, can help stimulate this breed’s active mind; they are often motivated by harder puzzle toys as well. These engaging tasks don’t always have to be time consuming on your end – it could be as easy as smearing some peanut butter in a Kong. Since this breed requires lots of training, consider using small, low-calorie treats to prevent overfeeding & obesity. Because all dogs are unique in their diet requirements, it’s best to consult your veterinarian to determine the best food to feed your pup.
Armenian Gampr Coat Color And Grooming
The Armenian Gampr’s coat requires moderate grooming to keep in good shape. One or two weekly brushing sessions should help keep this breed looking their best; when they shed their double coat, consider taking them in for a professional grooming. Keep coat wipes on hand for when your pup gets dirty but doesn’t quite need a bath; overbathing can damage skin and fur. As with all dog breeds, be sure to check on nail maintenance and give them routine trimmings.
Armenian Gampr Children And Other Pets
There are some considerations to be made before choosing to add the Armenian Gampr to your family. This breed is typically loving and playful. They can be great companions for children, and typically have good attitudes with kids. Dogs need proper introductions, but they can still be good companions with other family dogs. Due to their guardian natures, Armenian Gamprs are typically well behaved around all animals, including small pets or livestock. As always, dogs need to be properly introduced to children and other animals in the house to ensure a safe environment for all.
Armenian Gampr Rescue Groups
There are no dedicated rescue groups specifically for the Armenian Gampr, as they are an endangered breed. However, there are still many deserving dogs looking for forever homes. Similar breeds may be more widely available in local shelters. Whatever the circumstances, try opening your home to a rescue pup. With millions waiting for fur-ever homes, there’s no reason to opt to shop.
armenian gampr