Origin
According to research, the Central Asian Shepherd dogs already existed about 5,000 years ago.
It was during that time that these dogs were used by Nomadic tribes, living in the areas of Northern China and Russia, to look for their own livestock or using them as a means of transportation, or even as household pets.
Legend claims that this canine is believed to be one of the oldest breed of guard dogs known for keeping security on its toes and vicious in dog fights.
In the late 1920s, the USSR used the Central Asian Shepherd dogs to guard on posts, military caravans, and cater to the needs of their territory.
Due to the interbreeding of dogs from other kinds, their original abilities as guard dogs had declined. From a ferocious and dog fighter, it evolved into a more domesticated pet dog for a household.
But only their territorial instincts and high regard to ownership have remained the same. The Central Asian Shepherd dogs are now found in the regions of Russia, Siberia, Iran and Afghanistan.
Traits and Behavior
With the history of their breed as guard dogs, they stand firm on guarding and watching at homes, persons or even livestock. They are independent in nature and are bound to be calm and fearless.
However, they are good dogs with their owners and members of the family when properly trained especially in the familiarization of body scents.
These dogs are very observant and are prone to bark more often into the night. Living with them in a close-knit neighborhood may be a problem as they create much disturbing noise.
The Central Asian Shepherd dogs also enjoys socialization of other dogs and animals as long as there won’t be any competition among them. Dog owners must keep watch on these dogs when being played or cuddled by small children.
These dogs prefer to live in large yards as they have to be constantly active. Living on small areas may leave them to boredom and develop a habit of eating and chewing anything that is on their reach.
Pet Care and Diseases
These dogs don’t require much grooming. Mud spots tend not to stick on their coats and can be taken off easily on their body. However, during spring time, they display large amount of shredding especially on the undercoat which needs more attending by the owner.
These areas need to be brushed as often to leave off dead hairs. They also need a good amount of exercise every day like walking or running to prevent them from being bored and show off unruliness of chewing and unruly activities.
As these dogs aged, they are prone to hip and elbow injuries which will cause them to be dull and sluggish, common cases in large dogs. They may also encounter a bloated stomach, an outcome from eating and chewing things not digestible for their stomach.
Appearance
They appear large and muscular, with great strength and power. Their length of withers is expected to be long, and taller than its height.
They stand about 60 – 80cm, and weighs largely about 40 – 80 kg. Depending on varieties, their hair coats are either short or long, but are furry.
Its head are nearly rectangular, and massive in shape. The muzzles are strong and well built under the eyes that bridge the nose in straight protrusion.
Ears appear triangular in shape but are not long enough and slightly hang on the level of their eyes. Eyes are well–rounded and go on to colors from dark brown to hazel.
They also possess large thighs and perform well on long periods of running.
General Information
Their life expectancy goes about 10 -12 years. Average litter size s 5-12 puppies.
Other names include Turkmen Alabai, Alabai, Central Asian Sheepdog, Mid-Asian Shepherd, Middle Asian Ovtcharka and Sredneasiatska’a Ovtcharka.
Breed Club
Visit this dog club website dedicated to Central Asian Shepherd Dogs. Click this link: http://cassa.homestead.com/