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Kurdish Mastiff
Working breed from Kurdistan region
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Kurdish Mastiff
The Kurdish Mastiff is a giant-sized working breed from the Kurdistan region, historically used as a livestock guardian. It is known for being protective, loyal, independent, courageous, alert, and confident. Individual temperament varies, and the breed is not suited for apartment living. Estimated adult weight ranges from 50 to 82 kg, height from 71 to 84 cm, and lifespan from 10 to 13 years. These measurements are modelled estimates and may not reflect every dog.
Quick facts
Kurdish Mastiff at a glance
Sizegiant
Breed groupWorking
OriginKurdistan region
Lifespan10–13 years
Male weight50–82 kilogram
Female weight50–82 kilogram
Male height71–84 centimetre
Female height71–84 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Kurdish Mastiff is an ancient landrace breed developed over centuries by Kurdish shepherds in the mountainous Kurdistan region. It was primarily used to protect livestock from large predators such as wolves and bears. The breed is valued for its strength, courage, and resilience in harsh conditions. Recognition status varies by registry, and it is not recognized by major kennel clubs. The breed is also known as the Pshdar Dog. Its history is based on oral tradition and limited documentation, so many details remain uncertain.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
50–82 kilogramAdult weight71–84 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Protectiveloyalindependentcourageousalertconfident
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Moderate compared with other breeds
May require patient training
Lower coat-maintenance demand
Moderate compared with other breeds
Family suitability
Home and household fit
Supervise every dog–child interaction.
Introductions and socialization still matter.
Exercise, enrichment and noise tolerance affect fit.
Climate suitability
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
Modelled tendency · low confidence
A general morphology-based tendency. Individual dogs still require shade, shelter, water, acclimation and weather-appropriate activity. Method: climate-morphology-v1.
Health overview
Veterinary sources requiredHealth considerations
No Kurdish Mastiff-specific screening programme or peer-reviewed disorder-prevalence study is currently attached to this profile. This is not evidence that the breed has no health risks. Owners should use routine preventive veterinary care and discuss screening appropriate to the individual dog's history, examination and family line.
Veterinary disclaimer: This profile is educational and does not replace examination, diagnosis or treatment by a veterinarian.
Feeding overview
Nutrition and feeding
Research in progress
Reviewed feeding guidance will appear after an approved source is imported and editorially reviewed.
Decision support
Potential advantages and challenges
Potential advantages
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
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Growth chart
Kurdish Mastiff puppy growth
Modeled estimates
Open interactive chart From puppy weight to adult size
Compare male and female growth, check weight by age and estimate mature size.
Adult male weight50–82 kilogramAdult female weight50–82 kilogramGrowth modeladult-range-size-model-v1
Preview only. Open the complete chart to adjust age, current weight and measurement units.
Frequently asked questions
Common questions
What is the size and lifespan of a Kurdish Mastiff?
The Kurdish Mastiff is a giant breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 50 to 82 kg, height from 71 to 84 cm, and lifespan from 10 to 13 years. These are modelled estimates and may vary.
What is the temperament of a Kurdish Mastiff?
Commonly described temperaments include protective, loyal, independent, courageous, alert, and confident. However, individual dogs may differ, and temperament is influenced by training and socialization.
How much exercise does a Kurdish Mastiff need?
The breed has a moderate energy level (score 3 out of 5). Regular exercise is important, but specific needs may vary by individual.
What are the grooming requirements for a Kurdish Mastiff?
Grooming needs are low (score 2 out of 5), but shedding is high (score 3 out of 5). Regular brushing can help manage shedding.
Is a Kurdish Mastiff suitable for apartment living?
No, this breed is not suited for apartments (score 1 out of 5). It requires space and is best suited for homes with a yard.
Is the Kurdish Mastiff good with children and other dogs?
Child suitability is moderate (score 3 out of 5), but compatibility with other dogs is low (score 2 out of 5). Early socialization is important, and individual behavior varies.
Where does the Kurdish Mastiff originate from?
The breed originates from the Kurdistan region, where it was developed as a livestock guardian by Kurdish shepherds. It is an ancient landrace breed.
Data transparency
✓ Published · VerifiedSources and review status
APIThe Dog API ↗The Dog API Terms of Service (effective 2023-07-01)
VETERINARY SOURCEWSAVA Global Nutrition Guidelines and Toolkit ↗Copyright; factual citation and original summary only
Image source: The Dog API. Last reviewed 7/20/2026.