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
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
25.5 - 29.5 inches (65-75 cm)
88-143 lbs (40-65 kg)
Male
27.5 - 31.5 inches (70-80 cm)
110-176 lbs (50-80 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
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
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate to Heavy
Grooming
Weekly brushing
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
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
Attribute
Notes
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