Pet Wiki

Vikhan

Also called Vikhan Sheepdog

Rare breedShort profile

From Pakistan (Chitral, Khyber Pakhtunkhwa); also reported in Himachal Pradesh, India12

At a glance the quick version

Sizelarge
fearless flock guardian
intelligent
fast and athletic
21

Coat and looks how to spot one

long profuse coat

A lean, fairly light-framed guardian built for speed, with drop ears, a bushy tail and a long coat. It is often likened to a large collie.12

Coloursblackbrownredfawnmottledmulticoloured12

Personality what they are like

A bold, clever and territorial working dog that takes its guarding role seriously and benefits from early, careful socialisation.2

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A working landrace used to guard and herd sheep in mountain country, so it is suited to an active outdoor life.12

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The long coat is traditionally shorn by herders, who use the hair.1

The story where it all began

The Vikhan is a traditional shepherd's dog from the mountains of Chitral in north-west Pakistan, where it still protects flocks. Its name is thought to come from a Sanskrit word meaning broken or hermit, perhaps referring to the rugged land or its isolation.12

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 1

    Herders shear the Vikhan's long coat and use the hair to make dark wool.1

  2. 2

    Working dogs are often fitted with a thick iron collar to protect their necks.1

  3. 3

    It is built more for speed than bulk compared with many flock guardians.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed's name is derived from the Sanskrit word 'vikh', meaning broken, noseless or hermit, possibly referring to the broken, uneven land where it is found or its solitary nature.3

Name ideas for your new friend

ChitralBoldoShahzadaKarakoramZaraSnowyRajaHimalNoorFluffy GuardShepherd KingPashmina

A day in the life told by a Vikhan

I wake with the sun over the mountains. My flock is stirring, and I circle them, checking each one. A lamb strays toward the cliff, I block it with my body, firm but gentle. The herder laughs and pats my head. Later, I lie on a high rock, watching the valley. A fox slinks near; I give a low growl, and it vanishes. At dusk, I curl beside the fire, fur warm and eyes half-closed. Another good day guarding my family.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

Major kennel clubs
Not recognised as a breed by any major kennel club1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Vikhan. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Vikhan tip

For a large, active Vikhan, choose treats that are low in fat and easy to digest, and break them into small pieces to avoid overfeeding. Always monitor their weight and adjust treat portions accordingly.

Source: vcahospitals.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Vikhan, and at what times?

Feed your Vikhan at least two meals a day for an adult, and three to four smaller meals for a puppy. Sticking to set times helps their digestion, and you can ask your vet for a schedule that fits your dog's age and activity.24

What should a Vikhan eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A Vikhan does well on a balanced dog food suited to an active working breed. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts, always check the ASPCA list and ask your vet for safe treats.25

How often should I bathe a Vikhan?

Furry Diary's starting plan suggests a bath every eight weeks, but you can bathe more often if your Vikhan is very dirty or outdoors a lot. Always use a dog shampoo and avoid over-bathing to keep their long coat healthy.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Vikhan need brushing?

Brush your Vikhan weekly to keep their long, profuse coat free of tangles and mats. Daily brushing is even better during shedding seasons, and it's a nice bonding time.6 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Vikhan's nails, and how often?

Trim your Vikhan's nails every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick, and ask your vet or a groomer to show you how if you're unsure.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Vikhan need?

Your Vikhan is a working landrace used to herding in mountain country, so daily walks and play are a must. They thrive with active outdoor time, and Furry Diary suggests daily exercise to keep them happy and fit.12 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Vikhan's teeth and ears?

Brush your Vikhan's teeth two to three times a week with dog toothpaste, and check their floppy ears weekly for moisture or dirt, dry them gently without pushing anything inside. Daily brushing is ideal for teeth, and your vet can guide you on ear care.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Vikhan live?

A Vikhan's lifespan varies, and it's best to ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations. Senior years usually start around age seven, so regular vet checks become important then. Pet Wiki plan

Is a Vikhan good with children and other pets?

This bold, territorial working dog takes its guarding role seriously, so early, careful socialisation is key. With proper training, they can be good with children and other pets, but always supervise and ask a breeder for advice.2

Can a Vikhan be left alone?

A Vikhan is a clever, territorial dog that may not do well left alone for long periods, as they are used to working alongside people. It's best to ask a good breeder or your vet for guidance based on your dog's personality.2

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.

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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? support@petwiki.app.

  1. Wikipedia: Vikhan en.wikipedia.orgused for origin, name, coat, colours, use, recognition, facts
  2. Molosser Dogs: Vikhan molosserdogs.comused for temperament, colours, use
  3. en.wikipedia.org en.wikipedia.org
  4. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  5. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.