Appearance of the Armenian Gampr Sheepdog
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Armenian Gampr Sheepdogs developed as livestock guardians, protecting livestock from large predators such as wolves, leopards and even the occasional Caucasian bear. It takes a big, powerful dog to cope with such threats; the Armenian Gampr Sheepdog, which typically measures between 63 and 89 centimeters and weighs between 38 and 84 kilos, has been doing so for thousands of years. They are well-muscled, with long, straight backs and pronounced shoulder blades. These canines have a broad, heavy head, with a muzzle slightly shorter than the length of the skull, but strong and straight. The Armenian Gampr Sheepdog can come in almost any color and can have varying characteristics. They tend to have almond-shaped brown eyes in various shades, and their medium-length triangular ears hang over the sides of their heads. Dogs still employed as livestock guardians will often have their ears cropped, as this prevents the large predators they are still defending against from gaining the upper hand by biting and holding their ears. Males are generally larger, with a thicker body and head than their female counterparts. |
Temperament of the Armenian Gampr Sheepdog
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Like most livestock herding breeds, the Armenian Gampr Sheepdog is an independent, reliable animal that can generally be relied upon to be both brave and cautious. They tend to be more reserved than most breeds, even with their families, although they remain fiercely loyal and naturally protective. Although they are known to be particularly gentle with children, they are nonetheless powerful animals, and any interaction between canines and young children must be closely supervised. Although Gamprs want to have a place in the family, they are less inclined than other breeds to want to please their master, and can be quite difficult to train. These dogs are not naturally social with other dogs and can be extremely territorial; socialization must be frequent and early. Because of their territorial nature, socialization is often most effective on neutral territory. Even when socialized, this breed tends to remain somewhat aloof and is not particularly playful by nature. |
Needs and activities of the Armenian Gampr Sheepdog
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Although the Armenian Gampr Sheepdog is not an overly energetic animal, it is a working breed that needs a moderately high level of exercise to maintain its physique. This is a very large breed of dog, and exercises and activities that strain the joints, such as jumping, prolonged running sessions and even stair climbing, should be kept to a minimum, especially while the animal is still growing. This helps avoid bone and joint problems as the canine grows. A long daily walk is an excellent form of exercise for these dogs, and as working Armenian Gampr Sheepdogs tend to be most active at dawn and dusk, this is perhaps the best time to walk this particular breed. The Armenian Gampr Sheepdog is not suited to a small or confined living space and will do best in a working environment or in a home with a very securely fenced yard. |
Maintenance of the Armenian Gampr Sheepdog
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Armenian Gampr Sheepdogs have a double-layered coat with a thick, well-developed undercoat and a rough outer coat that protects them from both weather and predators. The coat contains protective oils that help to remove dirt and debris and protect the skin. It should therefore only be bathed a few times a year, as required, and weekly brushing with a rake will generally prevent the formation of large mats. The Armenian Gampr Sheepdog is known to shed more at the change of season, and may require more frequent brushing at these times. These dogs are known to grow more slowly than average and may benefit from a diet designed for large-breed puppies until their growth has slowed. Start a grooming routine when your dog is young; this will allow weekly nail trimming, teeth brushing and gentle coat maintenance. |