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Zerdava
Spitz and Primitive Types breed from Eastern Black Sea region of Turkey
Breed overview
Reviewed · Database recordAbout the Zerdava
The Zerdava is a medium-sized, spitz-type hunting dog native to the eastern Black Sea region of Turkey. It is known for its wedge-shaped head, prick ears, agility, and intelligence. The breed is described as courageous, loyal, energetic, and alert. Estimated adult weight ranges from 8 to 20 kg, and height from 43 to 53 cm, with a lifespan of 12 to 16 years. Its recognition status varies by registry; it is not universally recognized. The Zerdava is a landrace breed that is now being preserved and standardized by the Turkish Kennel Club (KIF).
Quick facts
Zerdava at a glance
Sizemedium
Breed groupSpitz and Primitive Types
OriginEastern Black Sea region of Turkey
Lifespan12–16 years
Male weight8–20 kilogram
Female weight8–20 kilogram
Male height43–53 centimetre
Female height43–53 centimetre
Origin and history
Where the breed comes from
The Zerdava is an ancient landrace breed from the eastern Black Sea region of Turkey, primarily the Trabzon and Rize provinces. It was developed as a versatile and fearless hunter, traditionally used to track and corner prey such as wild boar, bear, and fox. The breed's history is rooted in its working role rather than a documented pedigree, and its exact origins are not precisely recorded. Today, the Zerdava is being preserved and standardized by the Turkish Kennel Club (KIF). However, its recognition status varies by registry, and it is not yet widely recognized by major international kennel clubs. The breed remains relatively rare outside its native region, and efforts to document and promote it are ongoing.
Physical characteristics
Structured dataSize, build and coat
Female
8–20 kilogramAdult weight43–53 centimetreAdult heightCoat typesPendingCoat colorsPendingRecognitionvaries by registryData methodai assisted draft
Temperament
Typical breed tendencies
Intelligentcourageousloyalenergeticalert
Breed tendencies are general guidance. Individual behavior depends on genetics, socialization, training, health and environment.
Exercise, training and maintenance
1–5 methodologyDaily care profile
Higher daily exercise demand
Typically responsive to training
Moderate compared with other breeds
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 Zerdava-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
- Typically responsive to consistent training.Supported by trainabilityScore: 4
- Commonly described as loyal.Supported by temperaments.loyal: true
Potential challenges
- Higher daily exercise and enrichment needs may not suit every household.Supported by energyScore: 4
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Growth chart
Zerdava 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 weight8–20 kilogramAdult female weight8–20 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 Zerdava?
The Zerdava is a medium-sized breed. Estimated adult weight ranges from 8 to 20 kg, and height from 43 to 53 cm. Estimated lifespan is 12 to 16 years. These are modelled estimates, not definitive measurements.
What is the Zerdava's temperament like?
The Zerdava is described as intelligent, courageous, loyal, energetic, and alert. However, individual dogs may vary, and temperament is influenced by training, socialization, and environment.
How much exercise does a Zerdava need?
The Zerdava has a high energy level (energy score 4 out of 5). It likely requires substantial daily exercise, but specific needs depend on the individual dog.
What are the grooming requirements for a Zerdava?
Grooming needs are moderate (score 3 out of 5), and shedding is also moderate (score 3 out of 5). Regular brushing is recommended, but specific coat type is not provided in the facts.
Is the Zerdava suitable for families with children or other dogs?
Child suitability and dog compatibility are both rated 3 out of 5, indicating average suitability. However, individual temperament and early socialization play a significant role.
Can a Zerdava live in an apartment?
Apartment suitability is rated 3 out of 5, suggesting it may be possible but not ideal. The breed's high energy level means it likely needs space to exercise.
Where does the Zerdava originate from?
The Zerdava originates from the eastern Black Sea region of Turkey, primarily the Trabzon and Rize provinces. It is an ancient landrace breed traditionally used for hunting.
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.