Central Asian Shepherd Dog

Alabai, Sredneasiatskaia Ovtcharka, Central Asian Ovcharka, Turkmen Alabai
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Face-On View
3/4 View
Sideways View
Standing View

Summary

  • The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a large, ancient livestock guardian breed from Central Asia, known for its courage, loyalty, and protective nature. They require experienced owners and consistent training due to their independent and territorial temperament.

Origin and Purpose

  • Ancient livestock guardian from Central Asia
  • Used to protect sheep and goat herds from predators
  • Developed over 4,000 years

Appearance

Dimensions

GenderHeightWeight
Female25.5 - 29.5 inches (65-75 cm)88-143 lbs (40-65 kg)
Male27.5 - 31.5 inches (70-80 cm)110-176 lbs (50-80 kg)

Coat

AttributeNotes
Color
  • White
  • Black
  • Gray
  • Fawn
  • Red
  • Brindle
  • Various combinations
  • Spotted
Type
  • Straight
  • Dense
  • Double coat with a thick undercoat
  • May have longer guard hairs
Length
  • Medium to Short

Care

AttributeNotes
Shedding
  • Moderate to Heavy
Grooming
  • Weekly brushing
Drooling
  • Low

Body

AttributeNotes
Head
  • Large
  • Rectangular
  • Well-developed
Skull
  • Broad
  • Flat
Ears
  • Triangular
  • Set high
  • Often cropped
Eyes
  • Oval
  • Dark
  • Set wide apart
Nose
  • Large
  • Black
Muzzle
  • Blunt
  • Well developed
  • Deep
Teeth
  • Strong
  • Well-developed
  • Scissors bite
Neck
  • Short
  • Muscular
  • Powerful
Forequarters
  • Strong
  • Muscular
Fore Legs
  • Straight
  • Strong
  • Parallel
Hindquarters
  • Broad
  • Muscular
Hind Legs
  • Straight
  • Strong
  • Parallel
Feet
  • Large
  • Oval
  • Compact
Tail
  • Thick
  • Set high
  • Curved or carried low
Gait
  • Balanced
  • Powerful
  • Smooth

Temperament

  • Courageous
  • Loyal
  • Independent
  • Self-assured
  • Calm
  • Territorial
  • Suspicious of strangers
  • Not for inexperienced owners

Social

AttributeNotes
Affectionate with Family
  • Highly Affectionate
Good with Children
  • Good with children in family if properly trained and socialized
  • May be less tolerant of unfamiliar children
Good with Dogs
  • Can be territorial with other dogs
  • May be aggressive towards unfamiliar dogs
Good with Cats
  • May not be good with cats, especially unfamiliar cats
Openness to Strangers
  • Suspicious
  • Aloof
Playfulness Level
  • Moderate
Protective Nature
  • Very Protective
Adaptability Level
  • Low

Working Roles

  • Livestock guardian
  • Guard dog
  • Family companion for experienced owners

Exercise Needs

  • Moderate
  • Requires daily walks and mental stimulation
  • Not suited for apartment living

Health

  • Generally healthy
  • Prone to hip and elbow dysplasia
  • Bloat
  • Heart issues
  • Eye conditions

Additional Notes

  • Requires early socialization and consistent training
  • Needs a job to do
  • Not for first-time dog owners
  • Can be independent and stubborn

References