The Tornjak is a livestock guardian dog breed originating from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia, known for its calm, courageous, and protective nature. They are large, with a long, dense coat, and require moderate exercise and regular grooming.
Origin and Purpose
Livestock guardian from Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
Approximately 23.5 to 25.5 inches (60-65 cm).
Approximately 77 to 110 pounds (35-50 kg).
Male
Approximately 25.5 to 27.5 inches (65-70 cm).
Approximately 99 to 132 pounds (45-60 kg).
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Typically bi-colored or tri-colored, with common colors including white with markings of black, brown, red, or grey.
Type
Double coat.
Length
Long and dense.
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate to heavy.
Grooming
Regular brushing required.
Drooling
Low.
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Proportionate to body.
Skull
Broad, slightly convex.
Ears
Triangular, medium sized, and pendant.
Eyes
Almond shaped, dark color preferred.
Nose
Large, black pigmentation.
Muzzle
Strong and well-developed.
Teeth
Strong with a scissor bite.
Neck
Strong, muscular, and well-arched.
Forequarters
Well-developed and muscular.
Fore Legs
Straight and strong.
Hindquarters
Powerful and well-muscled.
Hind Legs
Straight and strong.
Feet
Well-knitted, oval shaped with strong nails.
Tail
Long and bushy, carried high when alert.
Gait
Free and powerful.
Temperament
Calm, courageous, and intelligent.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Affectionate and loyal.
Good with Children
Generally good with children when raised together.
Good with Dogs
Good with other dogs, especially when properly socialized.
Good with Cats
Generally good with cats when raised together.
Openness to Strangers
Reserved and wary of strangers.
Playfulness Level
Moderate.
Protective Nature
Highly protective of family and property.
Adaptability Level
Moderate; best suited to spacious environments.
Working Roles
Livestock guardian.
Exercise Needs
Moderate daily exercise required.
Health
Generally healthy breed; hip and elbow dysplasia are sometimes seen.
Additional Notes
Requires early socialization and consistent training.
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