Armant
Also known as Egyptian Sheepdog · Ermenti · Hawara Dog
Egypt, Working and herding dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 45–60 cm
- Weight
- 23–29 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–14 yrs
- Brave
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Protective
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Armant is a medium-sized, shaggy-coated herding and guard dog from Egypt, named after the town of Armant. It comes in black, black and tan, grey and other shades, and some dogs are born with a natural bobtail. It is little known outside Egypt and is endangered through crossbreeding.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 45–60 cm
- Adult weight
- 23–29 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Most reach adult size by around 12 months.
Lifespan
12–14 years
Most Armants live 12–14 years. Like other medium dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 8, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
Armants are brave, intelligent and loyal to their owners, but cautious with strangers. They are fierce defenders of their flock, earning them the Arabic nickname for lion.
- Brave
- Intelligent
- Loyal
- Protective
Food
For a typical 26 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 1,290 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 1 L–1.6 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
90–120 min a dayA working herder that needs plenty of daily exercise and mental work, such as herding, training or dog sports.
Grooming & shedding
The rough, shaggy coat needs regular brushing, perhaps twice a week, to prevent mats.
Health
Early socialisation helps balance its guarding instincts, and consistent training suits its intelligence. It is used to a hot climate but still needs shade and water. Very little has been published about its health.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip scoring
- General veterinary check
Not every Armant is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Its origins are disputed: one story links it to Briards brought by Napoleon's army, another to dogs of Russian travellers, while the Egyptian Kennel Federation regards it as wholly African, possibly related to North African village dogs. It was used widely by the Hawara people with their livestock. Enthusiasts are now trying to find and preserve pure examples.
- Country of origin
- Egypt
- Type
- Working and herding dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Egyptian Kennel Federation; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Armant right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- First-time owners prepared to train consistently
Think twice if
- You can't give well over an hour of exercise a day, every day
Cost to keep
About average- Moderate food and insurance costs
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 12–14 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Armant FAQ
How big does a Armant get?
Adult Armants typically stand about 45–60 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 23–29 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Armants live?
Typically 12–14 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Armant need?
As a guide, around 90–120 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Armant need?
Brushing a few times a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Armants easy to train?
Usually quick to learn with reward-based training.
Do Armants shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Armants good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Armant live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Armants have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published. Not every Armant is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.