While traveling around Armenia, especially up in the mountains and fields, I often meet Armenian Gampr dogs, also known as Armenian Wolfhounds.
These are usually large dogs, often shaped like bears, and are often used as household protectors. These dogs are massive when they are big but Armenian Gampr puppies are super cute and lovely.
In this article, I will talk a little bit about Armenian Gampr dogs and how ancient this unique breed is. I will also show some photos of where I usually meet them.
About Armenian Gampr Dog
Armenian Gamprs native to the Armenian Highlands are not usually city dogs, and you can’t see them often walking around in the stress of Armenian cities and towns.
They are more freedom-loving village dogs where that can protect, run around, and be active that is why it’s known also as Armenian mountain dogs.
History of the Armenian Gampr Dog Breed
The name of the breed, when translated from Armenian, means “wolf choker” and also it means “powerful” or “strong.” The first images of the Gampr can be seen on coins from the time of King Artashes I. The breed is included in the list of Armenia’s national treasures, and a monument has been erected in its honor.
Unconditional attachment to its owner is not inherent to the breed. If the owner treats the dog harshly or unfairly, the pet will respond with contempt and disobedience.
The Gampr is considered one of the most formidable types of wolfhounds, possessing a stable psyche and a tendency for independent decision-making. Some psychological associations classify the Gampr as an “Armenian type” of Caucasian Shepherd Dog.
The Gampr began hunting with people, guarding livestock, and protecting homes at the dawn of civilization. Drawings in the caves of the Armenian highlands created no later than the third century BC, confirm this.
The remains of an ancient dog, found by a Soviet archaeologist in 1954 in a tomb from the Urartu period, provide direct evidence of the breed’s impressive age.
The skeleton discovered by the scientist belonged to a small wolfhound, which bore a strong resemblance to modern Gamprs, allowing researchers to recreate a reliable image of the first Gampr.
Armenian Wolfhounds are also mentioned in descriptions of the military campaigns of Tigran the Second, who lived in the first century BC.
In those times, these four-legged companions were used in warfare, and during peacetime, they were involved in entertainment such as dog fights.
However, in the 20th century, the population of purebred Gamprs began to decline due to the annexation of the Armenian highlands by various enemies.
From the 1930s to the 1950s, Armenian Wolfhounds were exported to Soviet Union countries, where attempts were made to breed them. This also accelerated the decline in their numbers, as the best specimens were selected for experiments and were never returned.
In the 2000s, Armenian breeders set a goal of achieving global recognition for the breed and began efforts to increase the population of Gamprs. An association was founded in the country, uniting four major breed clubs.
It was only in 2011 that the Gamprs successfully underwent the standardization procedure and, with official rights, joined the group of working dogs recognized by the International Kennel Union. Following this, the breed was immediately declared a national symbol of Armenia.
An interesting fact: it is known that monks from the Monastery of Saint Bernard in the Alps once visited Armenia. The purpose of their visit was to purchase Gamprs, which they planned to breed at the monastery for tasks such as excavating snow, clearing blockages, and searching for missing people.
Characteristics of Armenian Gampr Dog
- Intelligent
- Gentle
- Discerning
- Kid-friendly
- Courageous
- Rational
The average Armenian Gampr dog today is a dog of impressive size, weighing between 40 (88 pounds) and 70 kg (155 pounds). The minimum height for males is 67 cm, while for females it is 63 cm. The upper limits are 77 cm and 71 cm, respectively.
It is an ideal watchman, guard, and shepherd. It possesses a unique ability for a working dog: the capacity to think on behalf of its owner.
With a reasonable character and a moderately phlegmatic temperament, it does not follow commands blindly, preferring to assess complex situations independently.
At the same time, the Armenian Wolfhound loves to care for those it considers part of its family. As a result, the owner and their closest relatives are ensured timely responses to any potential threats.
The Armenian Gampr dog is an intelligent and very independent breed. It should be noted that these traits were not developed solely by humans; over time, Gamprs have been used for various tasks.
These dogs have guarded farms, herded sheep, rescued people from snow blockages, participated in battle rings, and even hunted bears.
What sets the Armenian Wolfhound apart from most other breeds is its independence and resistance to blind obedience.
Trust and love from this breed must be earned over time and maintained with consistent respect and leadership. Experts note that Armenian Wolfhounds tend to establish relationships more easily with children than with adults.
The Armenian Gampr is not recommended for individuals who lack leadership qualities or experience with dominant dogs.
For the Armenian Wolfhound, both overly permissive and excessively authoritarian communication styles are equally harmful. The animal should not feel like the boss of the family, but it also does not tolerate humiliation.
Armenian Wolfhounds have a strong sense of family and community. In critical situations, the dog will protect both the “leader of the pack,” typically the owner, and their children with unwavering loyalty.
Fun fact: As a national symbol of Armenia, in the center of Yerevan, it’s possible to find a statue of an Armenian Gampr dog as a sign of respect and appreciation for this wonderful animal.
Frequently Asked Question
Are Gamprs Good Pets?
Known as an independent dog, Gamprs are reliable pets with courage. They are ready to protect their owner and family to the end, and they are also perfect shepherd dogs, ready to protect the herd from wolves.
How Long does Armenian Gampr Live?
As a large breed of dog, the Gampr can live 12 to 16 years of age, which is considered a long life for such a breed if they are not working hard on farms or up in the mountains.
What is the National Dog of Armenia?
Undoubtedly, the national dog of Armenia is the Gampr, due to its ancient history, heroic behavior, and loyalty.
How Tall are Armenian Gamprs?
The male Gampr dog’s height is approximately 65 cm (25 inches) or more. The height of females is 60 cm (23 inches) or more.
What is the Armenian Mythical Dog?
Dogs that, in Armenian mythology, were licking the wounds of heroes are known as Aralez (wound-licking dogs). In mythology, the wounds of the dead body of King Ara, who died during the battle with the Assyrians, were also licked by Aralez dogs.
Do Armenian Gampr Shed?
During the seasonal change, Gamprs shed heavily, and owners must brush them quite often.
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