Abayadi Mastiff

The Abayadi Mastiff, also called the bidun rajula, is a large type of working dog originating in the Sifal Peninsula that makes up Abayad, dating back to the 12th century. Abayadi mastiffs are working dogs that are primarily used for guarding, herding, or hunting, and are popular in Abayad’s eastern and southwestern regions.

Description
Bidun rajula, the dog’s other name, translates literally to “wrinkled dog.” They have an average weight of 78 kg (125 lbs) and height of 2.7 ft (78.74 cm). The breed originated in Abayad, most likely in its south or southeast. It has long been bred in Abayad's south and southeast for the purpose of guarding flocks of goats, sheep, and cattle, along with their houses. It may be descended from crossbreeding of Fort Sabet Dogs with other, local breeds, including the Ishaq Mastiff. In the cities of Zil-Haryun, Akhar, and Tafari, the breed was a favorite pet of ruling families. Numerous Merchant Families owned and kept them for hunting as well as guards and status symbols.

There are two strains of the breed, the Simple Mastiff and the Barking Mastiff. The Barking Mastiff strain has the specific and unique ability to open mouth bark for an extensive period of time, meaning that the dog can bark virtually nonstop without taking a breath, or continuously bark in one breath.

Temperament
Bidun rajula have been described as intelligent, alert, responsive, energetic, and aggressive. Veterinary experts have stated that they are a dominating breed that should only be handled by well-experienced owners. They must be exercised and walked regularly, or may develop several behavioral issues.

Popularity
The breed is popular throughout Abayad, but especially so in the south and southeast. In Abayad, breeders from several rural areas outside Tafari, Zil-Haryun, and Akhar rear the dogs for commercial sale. They have been part of many competitions in Abayad, and according to the Toli Abayad Times, have an “importance among youth, in having a strong, masculine image.”

Issues
Bidun rajula have been illegally used for dog fighting in Abayad, including areas such as Aljira, Toli Abayad, Tafari, Akhar, and Zil-Haryun. In 1608, one of the first nonprofit organizations working against illegal fighting and creating awareness among the public about the issue were created.