Egyptian Sheepdog

Although not as ancient as some believe, the Armant is an old working breed from Egypt that has changed very little over the course of history. The Egyptian Sheepdog is directly descended from the European dogs brought by Napoleon's troops, which were very likely crossed with local herders, although a number of fanciers believe that indigeneous dogs had very little influence on the formation of the breed. It is unclear whether the dogs that accompanied the French soldiers were strictly French breeds or also dogs collected from other European lands the Napoleon's army had conquered, but the influence of continetal bearded sheepdogs is evident. Named after the city of Armant, this rugged breed has traditionally been used as a livestock guardian, herder and property watchdog. The Egyptian Sheepdog has existed in a few types throughout the centuries, but these regional differences were mostly based on colour preferences and in some cases size, all clearly belonging to the same breed, although to this day, some question the existence of such a thing as the pure Armant and see it as more of a type of dog, rather than a breed. Even though it is fairly unknown and quite rare outside its homeland, the Armant exist in modest, but sufficient numbers in Egypt, where it is still employed as a herding and guarding dog, as well as a rural companion.

Loyal and obedient, the Armant is also very territorial and alert, being an excellent property guardian, but also a dog that requires experienced and responsible handling, as well as early socialization and training. Some believe that the strains which are more responsive to training are that way due to the blood of German Shepherds and other European herders in their backgrounds, while the supposedly real Armants are claimed to be too proud and stubborn to be trained. The Armant is a resilient and agile worker, deep-chested, long-legged and muscular. The back is straight, with broad shoulders, strong neck and powerful head. The ears are erect, but examples with semi-pricked, as well as dropped ears can be encountered as well. The tail is left in its natural state and is usually carried over the back. The rough coat is dense, hard and coarse, shorter on the legs and somewhat fuller on the body and head. Although usually bearded, this breed is not as richly coated as the Briard or the Bearded Collie, but is more similar to some terriers or the Irish Wolfhound in the length of the beard on its face. Dogs without the beard are fairly common too, but aren't as valued, even though they're encountered in the same litters as the bearded puppies.

Most dogs are fawn in colour, usually with a black saddle on the back and white markings on the legs, but other colourings exist. Average height is around 22 inches.