 | This article includes a list of general references, but it lacks sufficient corresponding inline citations. (October 2010) |
| Afghan Shepherd | |
|---|---|
 Afghan Shepherd (Kuchi Dog) in Kabul | |
| Other names | Sage Kuchi Sage Jangi De Kochyano Spai Jangi Spai Afghan Shepherd Powindah dog |
| Common nicknames | Kuchi Dog Afghan Mastiff |
| Origin | Afghanistan |
| Dog (domestic dog) | |
The Kuchi Dog, also known as the Afghan Shepherd, is an Afghan livestock guardian dog, taking its name from the Kuchi people of Afghanistan.[1] It is a working dog following the nomads, protecting caravans and flocks of sheep, goats, camels and other livestock[2] from wolves, bears, hyenas, big cats and thieves.
The Pashto name is De Kochyano Spai or Jangi Spai, meaning "Dog of the Nomads" and "Fighter Dog". It is found around the central and northern parts of Afghanistan. A livestock guardian dog of Molossoid type, the Kuchi dog shares a similar genetic background to the Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd).[citation needed] They may also be called Powindah dogs, Powindah being synonymous term for Kuchi used in southern Afghanistan.[2][3]
Because intricately associated with nomad life in remote and rugged regions where Western breeding techniques are not used, it is difficult to identify a "true" Kuchi type dog. Warfare and general unrest in the region have also affected the Kuchi people, many of whom have settled around cities, creating ample opportunity for the Kuchi to interbreed with other dogs. There is no organizing body for dogs in Afghanistan or some Kuchi dogs have been exported to Europe.
- ^ "Afghan Shepherd – DogInfo411.com". doginfo411.com. Retrieved 2018-04-05.
- ^ a b Morris, Desmond (2002). Dogs: The Ultimate Dictionary of over 1,000 Breeds (Reprint ed.). Trafalgar Square Pub. p. 621. ISBN 978-1-57076-219-2.
- ^ Tapper, Richard (2008-01-01). "Who are the Kuchi? Nomad self-identities in Afghanistan". journal of the Royal Anthropological Institute. 14: 98, 100 – via academia.edu.