Zerdava
Also known as Black Sea Spitz · Turkish Laika · Laz Köpeği · Mekverne
Turkey, Spitz and northern dogs
- Size
- Medium
- Height
- 45–55 cm
- Weight
- 11–18 kg
- Life expectancy
- 12–15 yrs
- Hardy
- Devoted
- Watchful
- Versatile
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Zerdava is a compact, athletic laika-type hunting dog from the eastern Black Sea coast of Turkey and neighbouring Georgia. It has upright triangular ears, a curled tail and a double coat that is always marten-brown, either solid or mixed with white as roan, ticking or patches. It is rare outside its home region, and the Georgian population is critically small.
Size
- Size
- Medium
- Height at shoulder
- 45–55 cm
- Adult weight
- 11–18 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
12–15 years
Most Zerdavas live 12–15 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
Zerdavas are devoted to their own family and suspicious of outsiders, which has earned them the nickname 'the Gate Dog'. They are bold, versatile hunters with a strong drive. Puppies need generous socialisation to avoid becoming timid or sharp, and adults can find a change of home very hard.
- Hardy
- Devoted
- Watchful
- Versatile
Food
For a typical 14.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 830 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 580 ml–870 ml
- 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 dayThis is a high-energy working dog that needs a lot of exercise and mental work every day. Scent games, tracking or search work suit it well.
Grooming & shedding
The double coat needs a weekly brush, with extra attention during seasonal moults.
Health
Its strong hunting instinct means it should be kept on a lead or in secure areas, and small pets may be at risk. Reward-based training and early, varied socialisation are important. The breed is considered hardy, but few health studies exist, so regular vet checks are sensible.
The breed can be prone to
- Considered hardy; no breed-specific problems are documented
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- General veterinary check before breeding
Not every Zerdava is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Very little is written about the breed's origins. A likely explanation is that hunting laikas arrived from Russia through the old Black Sea fur-trade routes. Zerdavas have been recorded in the Trabzon and Giresun area for at least a century, where they were prized for hunting boar, a pest of maize growers, and for treeing small game. Since 2016 the Turkish armed forces have also trained them for detection and search work.
- Country of origin
- Turkey
- Type
- Spitz and northern dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Turkish kennel club; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Zerdava right for you?
Could suit
- Active owners who enjoy long walks, running or hiking
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
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 12–15 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.
Zerdava FAQ
How big does a Zerdava get?
Adult Zerdavas typically stand about 45–55 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 11–18 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Zerdavas live?
Typically 12–15 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 Zerdava 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 Zerdava need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Zerdavas easy to train?
Generally trainable with consistent, reward-based practice.
Do Zerdavas shed?
A moderate amount. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control.
Are Zerdavas 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 Zerdava live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Zerdavas have?
The breed can be prone to considered hardy; no breed-specific problems are documented. Not every Zerdava 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.