Dogs of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog breed are large and powerful. Central Asian Ovtcharka, Middle Asian Ovtcharka, and Mid-Asian Shepherd are just a few of the many names given to these purebred canines. These pups have a history dating back over 5,000 years, making them one of the oldest breeds.
If you have a safe yard and live in a cooler area, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog would be a wonderful addition to your family. These dogs can be a little boisterous outside, but they're a lot calmer and quieter when they're inside. Despite the fact that they can be energetic and cuddly, they are not advised for first-time dog owners.
The whole list of Central Asian Shepherd Dog characteristics and facts may be found below!
Highlights
- In addition to white, brindle, and black, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog's coat is available in many more hues. Their coats might be solid, or they can be a mix of different hues.
- They're easy to groom, but not recommended for allergy patients. They only need to be brushed once or twice a week.
- Because of this, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog is great with children, especially those who are part of their own family. They can, however, be reserved among strangers, even if they are just visiting playmates.
- It's common for Central Asian Shepherd Dogs to get along well with cats, other dogs, and especially other Central Asian Shepherd Dogs.
- In contrast to many other breeds, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a very low-energy dog, but it is also quite tough. An hour of exercise a day is recommended for these animals.
- These dogs have a reputation for being fearless in the face of danger and are not known to flee. They're very protective of their territory and will do whatever it takes to keep it free of vermin and predators.
- They're generally regarded as a rather docile dog, although they'll bark if they see a stranger.
Characteristics
Social Appearance
Adaptability
It's a common misconception that a little dog is better suited to living in a limited space. Many tiny dogs have too much energy and are too yappy to live in an apartment building. An apartment dog's best attributes include being quiet, low energy, somewhat peaceful indoors, and respectful to the other inhabitants. Your dog's personal space in your apartment can be improved by purchasing one of these fantastic dog cages.
Sensitivity Level
Depending on the dog, a strong rebuke can be taken in stride by some, while others regard even the tiniest hint of disapproval as a personal attack. If you have a loud or pushy owner, a chaotic home, or a routine that is unpredictable or variable, your low-sensitivity dog, often known as "easy-going," "tolerant," "resilient," or even "thick-skinned," will be able to handle it better. Do you have young children, host a lot of parties, or have a hectic lifestyle? Choose a dog that isn't overly sensitive.
Intensity
You can't tell from looking at them whether or not they're hyperactive, but when they do anything, they do it vigorously. They tug at their leashes (unless you teach them not to), they push their way through barriers, and they down their meals in huge, gobbling gulps. A home with young children or an elderly or feeble person may not be the best place for these dynamos to learn proper etiquette. On the other side, a dog with poor vitality adopts a more reserved demeanor.
Potential for Playfulness
The playful nature of certain dogs never fades away, and they're always ready for a game, whereas the reserved and serious tendencies of other dogs develop through time. Think about how many times a day you want to play fetch or tag with your dog, and whether or not you have children or other dogs who can act as substitutes.
Personality Appearance
Intelligence
In the same way as working dogs, such as those that herd sheep, are bred for intelligence and decision-making, working dogs like those who run all day need to exercise their bodies. The two most common activities that a bored pet engages in are digging and chewing, both of which require mental stimulation. There are several ways to keep a dog's brain active, including obedience training, interactive dog toys like tug of war, and dog sports like agility and search and rescue.
Energy Level
Energy-draining dogs are always on the lookout for a new activity. There are several jobs that require a lot of stamina from dogs, such as herding livestock or recovering prey for hunters. Children are more likely to engage in activities such as jumping, playing and exploring new sights and smells as a result of this change in their environment
A low-energy dog is more like a couch potato than a dog that needs a lot of exercise. Think about your level of physical activity and whether or not you find a hyperactive dog irritating before making your final choice.
Easy To Train
Easy to train dogs can more easily form associations between a cue (like "sit"), an action (like sitting), and a reward than dogs that are more difficult to train. Dogs that require more time, patience, and repetition are more difficult to train.
Getting your dog interested in training will require incentives and games because many breeds are intelligent but have a "What's in it for me?" mentality when it comes to learning new things.
Family Affection Level
Affectionate With Family
Since puppyhood, some breeds remain aloof and independent; others form deep bonds with one individual but are uninterested in the rest of the family; still other types shower their entire family with affection. Canines raised in homes with people tend to be more open to human interaction and develop stronger ties, regardless of their breed or upbringing.
Kid-Friendly
Kids-friendly dogs are calm, strong enough to bear the hefty hugs and pets kids can dish out, and have an unfazed attitude about rushing, scream-inducing children. There are several names you may not expect to see on the list: Fierce-looking Both Boxers and American Staffordshire Terriers are regarded as family dogs (which are considered Pit Bulls). Chihuahuas, which are small, sensitive, and potentially sharp, are not always family-friendly.
Dog Friendly
Dog friendship and human friendship are two entirely different things. The fact that a dog is friendly with humans doesn't mean it's immune to aggression or aggression from other dogs; some canines choose to play rather than fight; others will just run away. The type of animal isn't the only consideration. Dogs who have spent a lot of time playing with their littermates and their mother at the age of six to eight weeks are more likely to be socially competent.
Physical Appearance
Amount of Shedding
Having a dog in the house means that you'll have to deal with some level of dog hair on your clothing and in the home. It's worth noting, however, that shedding varies widely among breeds. Some dogs shed all year long, while others ``blow" just during specific times of the year, and still others don't shed at all. If you're a stickler for cleanliness, you'll need to choose a breed that sheds less or lower your expectations. You can use a deshedding tool to keep your house a little cleaner.
Drooling Potential
While greeting you, some dogs may cover their arms with ropes of drool and create large, wet patches on your clothing. If you don't mind a little drool, go for it; but if you're a stickler for cleanliness, you may want to look for a dog with a low drool rating.
Easy To Groom
Some breeds of dogs can simply be brushed and left alone, while others require frequent washing, trimming, and other grooming in order to maintain their health and appearance. If you don't have the time or money to take care of a dog that requires a lot of grooming, you may want to look into hiring a professional.
Exercise Needs
Evening walks around the neighbourhood are perfectly acceptable for some breeds. Others, particularly those trained for physically demanding vocations like herding or hunting, require regular, rigorous exercise.
They can gain weight and release their pent-up energy in ways you don't like, including barking, chewing, and digging, if not given enough exercise. Those looking to train their dog for an energetic canine activity, such as agility, should consider getting a dog that needs a lot of exercise.
Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed
Weight
88 to 110 pounds
Lifespan
12 to 15 years
Height
24 to 28 inches
History
If you're looking for one of the oldest dog breeds still in existence, go no further than the Central Asian Shepherd Dog. As a result of their early settlement on the Great Steppe of Central Asia, it is possible that they have been around for more than 10,000 years. The Tibetan Mastiff and other Central Asian guard dogs may have been bred together, but it is impossible to know for sure.
These brave and fearless canines were essential to the survival of nomadic farmers, who relied on them to protect their prized cattle from wolves, bears, and jackals. It is common for Central Asian Shepherds to work in packs to protect their flocks from predators. In order to keep the nomads safe, they would patrol the land and bark to alert them to any danger. A courageous Central Asian Shepherd would also fight off any predators that tried to assault and eat any of the animals.
With the lesser dogs naturally dying off in a desert country, this dog has had to develop into a powerful and durable breed. A powerful breed of dog, these are often referred to as "wolf-crushers." These canines may have also taken part in the oldest known instance of 'dog fighting,' according to some researchers. The nomadic tribes would watch while two male canines were forced to battle. Even while it is widely believed that most dog fights ended with the dog turning away rather than with injuries, one can only picture the potential wounds and devastation that these big monsters could have done on each other. It's possible that this deed was carried out in order to narrow down the pool of available male dogs for breeding purposes.
The Soviet Union recognised the breed's merits in the latter half of the twentieth century. As security and patrol dogs, as well as members of the military, the best of the breed were employed in Russia. With the help of other local breeds, such as the Caucasian Shepherd and Russian Black Terrier, they were able to cross the Central Asian Shepherd. As a result, the genetic makeup of the breed is extremely varied.
These dogs are now employed by citizens as both companion animals and watchdogs, however they still protect livestock in rural areas. Even more tragically, they are often used in dogfights in Central Asia, which is a lucrative pastime for men, but which often results in terrible injuries and even fatalities for the dogs participating.
The United Kennel Club recognised the breed in 2001 after a campaign to standardise the breed began in the 1920s. You should consider the ancestry of your Central Asian Shepherd before buying one. A dog raised for livestock guardian purposes will have a different temperament than one bred for dogfighting purposes, as an example.
Personality & Temperament
This kind of dog is known for its independence, strong-willed loyalty and aggression. Their distinctive characteristics can vary greatly depending on the breeding line from which they originate. They are devoted to their owners and do not form bonds with other people or animals outside of their own family. They should not be kept near children or other animals because of their raw power and sometimes unpredictable nature. There is a lot of dog-on-dog aggressiveness, and males don't seem to get along.
This breed of dog is not suggested for first-time dog owners. The Central Asian Shepherd will almost likely be aggressive toward strangers if it is not properly socialised and trained at an early age. Naturally wary of them, they'll be ready to strike. An animal that has successfully fought off both tigers and bears does not pose a significant threat to human beings.
Care
The temperament, size, nutritional requirements, activity levels, and training requirements of Central Asian Shepherd Dogs must all be taken into consideration when establishing a care plan.
Health
Genetic illnesses are less common in purebreds because of the dilution of the gene pool caused by the introduction of other breeds into the community. The average longevity of these huge animals is 12 to 14 years, despite their large size. This demographic is likely to be more susceptible to diseases such as
Hip Dysplasia
Disorders in hip joint development are caused by an orthopaedic problem. Osteoarthritis in large-breed dogs can have a devastating effect on their quality of life. In many cases, medical management is recommended.
Elbow Dysplasia
Osteoarthritis of the elbow joint is caused by a hereditary condition, which results in lifetime discomfort and mobility difficulties.
GDV (Bloat)
Gas and food can cause a stomach to rotate, trapping the contents and resulting in a potentially lethal situation. Affected canines will not live without surgery.
Recommended Health Test
- Hip
- Elbow
- X-Ray
Nutrition
To be on the safe side, always seek the advice of your Alabai Dog's veterinarian before making any dietary changes. Consider your dog's size while shopping for dog food, and look for anything specifically designed for an extra-large breed. The Central Asian Shepherd is without a doubt one of the largest breeds of dog in the world.
Including a variety of fresh items in your dog's diet can be beneficial as well. You may devise a strategy to keep your dog fit and healthy by working with your veterinarian. Because of its rapid growth, your Central Asian Shepherd puppy will need a lot of food as a puppy. Feeding your pet less frequently as they become older will allow you to develop a more regular feeding plan.
Grooming
If you have a Central Asian Shepherd, you've probably noticed that he or she sheds about once a year. It's a good thing this only happens once a year, because there will be a lot of hair everywhere. Though they will shed over most months of the year, Central Asian Shepherds require very little grooming in other seasons.
It's a good idea to give your dog a bath every now and then to keep their skin and coat in top condition. You'll also need to keep your dog's nails trimmed and clean their teeth. The ears of your Central Asian Shepherd need to be cleaned on a regular basis, so keep an eye out for any problems. Infection can occur if earwax and debris are allowed to accumulate. When it comes to grooming and caring for the Central Asian Shepherd, it's a rather straightforward dog.
Exercise
All dogs need to be exercised. This is not a dog that will have you chasing balls or running laps around your yard for the better part of the day like the Central Asian Shepherd. However, they do require a lot of exercise and a lot of room to run.
This is a large breed of dog, so you'll want to provide them with plenty of room to play and run around. The Central Asian Shepherd will have a difficult time living in a city apartment with no adjacent parks.
A spacious yard and a daily walk would be excellent. Brilliant and self-reliant, the Central Asian Shepherd is a wonderful dog to own. Do not walk your dog without a leash or under any kind of close supervision.
Despite the fact that your Central Asian Shepherd appears to have low energy and is generally quiet, you should still take them for regular walks and hikes. This breed's calm nature belies their athletic prowess and strength.
Training
Central Asian Shepherds require an owner who is prepared to put in the time and effort to teach them proper manners. Dogs like this one are extremely intelligent, but they also have a tendency to take charge of their lives. The combination of these two features can slow down the process of teaching and understanding a subject to your dog.
When it comes to dog training, the most difficult part is figuring out who is a threat and who isn't. Your Central Asian Shepherd will naturally be wary of anyone who is not a member of your own family. When someone approaches to the door, this can lead to aggressive behaviour, such as yelping and barking. As a puppy, your Central Asian Shepherd will need to work on this behaviour.
It is best for the Central Asian Shepherd to be aware of their master's identity. A lifelong link will be formed between them and their master. If you're in charge of training, you need to be firm, but also compassionate. When it comes to protecting those closest to them, the Central Asian Shepherd will go to great lengths.
Children and Other Pets
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a hardy dog that enjoys spending time with children, especially those they believe to be part of their family. But when it comes to strangers and individuals they don't know, including visiting playmates, they can be a bit aloof and unfriendly.
It's crucial to get out and meet new people! They get along well with both cats and other dogs, but mainly other Central Asian Shepherd Dogs, due to their mutual respect.
It's crucial to teach children proper behaviour while around dogs, and tiny children should never be left alone with any dog. When children and dogs are playing together, always keep an eye on them.
Keep an eye on your Central Asian Shepherd Dog when you're around tiny children, due to its size and strength. They could harm or knock them down because they are so enormous.
Puppies
Owners of Central Asian Shepherd Dog puppies will need to be prepared to deal with the rising demands of this breed, which matures swiftly. To keep puppies occupied and amused, their caregivers must provide plenty of opportunities for play and activity. Playing with rubber toys that can't be broken is a favourite pastime for them.
Before taking home a puppy from the Central Asian Shepherd Dog breed, make sure your home is puppy proof and that you are prepared for the time and effort required to raise this dog. As compared to other breeds, their care and training needs are more intense.
Dogs similar to Central Asian Shepherd Dog
There are three breeds that are similar to the Central Asian Shepherd Dog: Anatolian Shepherd Dogs, Mastiffs, and Tibetan Mastiffs.
Anatolian Shepherd Dog
It's not uncommon for an Alabais or an Anatolian Shepherd Dog to top the 100-pound mark. Both breeds are great watchdogs because of their territorial natures. When compared to Anatolian Shepherd Dogs, Alabais tend to get along with other animals better.
Mastiff
Alabais, like Mastiffs, are friendly dogs who are particularly protective of those they consider their family. When compared to Alabais, Mastiffs tend to be more laid-back and less difficult to train.
Tibetan Mastiff
Despite the fact that both Tibetan Mastiffs and Alabais are over 100 pounds, the Alabai is slightly taller at 29.5 inches as opposed to the Tibetan Mastiff's 26.5 inches. In comparison to Tibetan Mastiffs, Alabais are a better choice as a companion for households with young children or other pets.