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Central Asian Shepherd Dog
Also known as: Central Asian Ovcharka
Breed origin: Central Asia Republics
Original purpose: Territorial guardian.
AKC recognized: No
AKC group: Foundation Stock Service
Size:
Weight: males 100 to 160 lbs;
females 90 to 125 lbs
Size: Height: males at least 26 inches;
females at least 24 inches
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Color: Black, white, yellow, gray, red, tan, piebald, brindle, or speckled.
Life span: 10 to 15 years.
General characteristics/temperament: The Central Asian Shepherd Dog dates back thousands of years and is said to be the oldest known groups of dogs in existence today. Because this breed was not man-made but was formed by natural selection, it has a wide gene pool and consists of several breed types with differing size, color, head types, coat types, and working qualities. Different breed types are frequently seen within the same litter. Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are intelligent, independent, powerful, agile, attentive, and affectionate. They are naturally protective of their family and territory, and distrust strangers. They require extensive socialization and obedience training as puppies and are not suitable for first-time owners. Because of their highly protective nature, they require a very securely fenced yard and must not be taken to off-leash dog parks because of the possibility of serious injury to other dogs that they may perceive as being a danger to their family. This breed tends to bark or howl at night, especially the females, which might become a big problem if you have neighbors in close proximity.
Protective? Naturally
OK for inexperienced owners? No
OK in apartments? No
Intelligent? Yes
Easy to train? No
Energy/Activity Level: Low/Moderate
Suitable canine sports/activities: therapy
Exercise requirement: Daily walks required to keep their muscles and body strong.
Grooming requirement: Seasonal shedding once or twice a year, minimal shedding the rest of the year. Brush freqently during shedding season.
Known health problems: Hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, torn anterior cruciate ligaments, entropian.
Other websites for additional information:
American Kennel Club breed page
Central Asian Shepherd Society of America
Wikipedia breed information page
National Central Asian Ovcharka Rescue
DogBreedMatch
