Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is self-assured, balanced, quiet, proud, and independent. Renowned for its courage and high working capacity, this breed naturally protects its territory and fears no large predators. With over 4,000 years of natural selection across regions from the Caspian Sea to China and the Southern Ural to Afghanistan, they are not suitable for first-time owners. Constant vigilance is required throughout their lives due to their strong protective instincts and endurance.
Breed Group

Breed Group

Purebred

Height

Height

25.5-27.5 inches

Weight

Weight

80-110 pounds

Life Span

Life Span

10-15 years

Average Cost

Average Cost

$1200 - $2000

Color

White, Fawn, Black, Brindle

AKC Group

AKC Group

Not Recognized

All About Breed

Discover everything about this breed to see if it suits your lifestyle. Make an informed decision to ensure it’s the right pet for you.

In This Article
Central Asian Shepherd Dog History/Origin

Central Asian Shepherd Dog History/Origin

Central Asian Shepherds are considered one of the oldest dog groups, with a history spanning over 5,000 years based on artifacts from their native lands. Unlike many modern breeds, they weren’t created by humans or specific countries.

Instead, they were shaped by the climate and culture of ancient, uncivilized times.Different types of CASDs can be found across terrains from Mongolia’s mountains to the Kara Kum deserts. 

Their history intertwines with human civilization, traceable through the ancient Silk Road. To understand their past, one must consider the harsh conditions and dangers that early humans and these dogs faced, including extreme climates and predators.

Today, nomadic tribes use these dogs as guard dogs to protect their families and traditional transportation like camels and horses. Recently, these dogs have been incorrectly classified as traditional livestock guardians, but they are true territorial guardians bred to protect people and their possessions.

  1. Central Asian Shepherd Dog HistoryCentral Asian Shepherd Dog History- Source: AKC.org

These purebred dogs bond with humans first, making them devoted protectors of their perceived territory. The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is known for his innate abilities as a livestock guardian dog, protecting his herd with dedication and vigilance.

In modern times, the breed has seen divisions and the creation of new types. The former USSR standardized the breed in the 1920s, but a new Russian standard developed after the USSR’s collapse led to the Central Asian Ovcharka.

They’re closely related to the Tibetan Mastiff. This modern version differs from the aboriginal types found in Central Asia in size, color, and temperament, marking a clear distinction between native and Russian-bred dogs.

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Personality

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Personality

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is pne of the dog breeds that is proud, confident, and independent. These dogs are courageous, never backing down when faced with a predator. Their strong territorial instincts ensure their lands remain free from unwanted critters and threats.

Personality-Moderately Social

Their self-assured demeanor reflects their ancient heritage and ability to adapt to challenging environments.

  • Temperament

Loyal and protective, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog bonds closely with their family while remaining aloof from strangers. Despite their reserved nature, they are affectionate with family members. These dogs are sturdy, well-suited to cold climates, and generally quiet. They become active and vigilant outdoors, yet maintain a mellow and observant demeanor indoors, making them balanced companions.

  • Potential Challenges

Owning a Central Asian Shepherd Dog requires managing their strong protective instincts and territorial nature. They need experienced owners who provide firm, consistent training and early socialization. Their aloofness with strangers and need for outdoor activity may pose challenges for first-time dog owners. Proper exercise helps channel their natural guarding instincts, ensuring they become reliable companions.

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Physical Appearance

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Physical Appearance

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a large breed with a massive bone structure and powerful muscles. Its body is slightly longer than it is tall, and it has a massive head. The ears, often cropped close to the head, are naturally small, drop, and set low. The tail is set high, thick at the base, and, when left undocked, hangs down to the hock in a sickle shape.

  • Size

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog should weigh between 88 and 110 pounds. They stand between 24 and 28 inches at the shoulders.

Dogs size- Large

  • Coat color

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog exhibits a diverse array of coat colors, with the most prevalent being white, fawn, black, and brindle. These colors may appear in solid shades or blend in various combinations. Their coats are characterized by a medium length, straight texture, and dense fur, protecting them from harsh climates and outdoor elements.

  1. White Central Asian Shepherd DogWhite Central Asian Shepherd Dog- Source: AKC.org
  2. White Central Asian Shepherd Dog with brown patchesWhite Central Asian Shepherd Dog with brown patches – Source: AKC.org
  3. Brindle Central Asian Shepherd DogBrindle Central Asian Shepherd Dog- Source: alabai.world
  4. Pied Central Asian Shepherd DogPied Central Asian Shepherd Dog- Source: central_asian_shepherd.dog
  5. Black Central Asian Shepherd DogBlack Central Asian Shepherd Dog- Source: kennel_alsvihouse
Central Asian Shepherd Dog Gender Differences

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Gender Differences

Male Central Asian Shepherd Dogs generally have larger dimensions in height and weight than females. Variations in size can occur within the breed, with some dogs being smaller or larger than the typical breed standard. This variability in size should be considered when choosing a Central Asian Shepherd Dog based on individual preferences and living conditions.

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Feed/Nutrition

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Feed/Nutrition

An ideal diet for the Central Asian Shepherd Dog should cater to their large size and moderate energy levels. It’s recommended to feed them high-quality commercial dog food or a balanced homemade diet once daily, adjusted as per your vet’s guidance regarding portion sizes and feeding frequency.

Due to their tendency to gain weight if overfed, it’s crucial to maintain a regular feeding schedule and avoid leaving food out throughout the day. Limiting treats is also advisable to manage their calorie intake effectively.

As with all dogs, the dietary needs of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog evolve from puppyhood through adulthood and into their senior years. Adding pineapple as an occasional treat can be refreshing, but make sure to serve it in moderation and remove the core and skin.

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Health

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Health

Natural selection has contributed to the Central Asian Shepherd Dog’s genetic resilience, resulting in overall robust health without breed-specific ailments. However, their large size predisposes them to several potential health issues:

  • Hip Dysplasia: This condition arises from an improper fit of the hip joint in the socket, leading to arthritis and hindering mobility. Regular veterinary check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this condition.
  • Von Willebrand’s Disease: A hereditary bleeding disorder, Von Willebrand’s Disease is caused by a deficiency in a blood clotting protein. Dogs with this condition may experience prolonged bleeding after injuries or surgeries. Affected dogs must receive prompt veterinary care and avoid activities that could lead to injury.
  • Canine Gastric Torsion: Bloat is a life-threatening condition where the stomach fills with gas and twists upon itself. Immediate veterinary attention is necessary to relieve the pressure, as GDV can lead to shock, organ damage, and even death without prompt intervention.
  • Progressive Retinal Atrophy: This group of inherited eye diseases causes the gradual deterioration of the retina, resulting in progressive vision loss and potential blindness. Regular eye exams by a veterinary ophthalmologist can help monitor and manage this condition to maintain the dog’s quality of life.
Central Asian Shepherd Dog Care and Grooming

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Care and Grooming

While not suitable for allergy sufferers, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog is low-maintenance when it comes to grooming. Their coats typically require brushing once a week and occasional baths to keep them in optimal condition.

The coat of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog undergoes seasonal changes, becoming sparser in summer and thicker in winter, often developing a dense undercoat during colder months. They experience an annual shedding phase known as “the fur storm,” necessitating regular vacuuming or consideration of robot vacuums for cleaning.

In terms of exercise, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog needs daily physical activity. Ideally, they should get at least an hour of walking or hiking each day.

Regular veterinary checkups are crucial for their health, and your vet can help create a personalized care plan to keep them in top shape. Additionally, training your dog not to bark excessively can help ensure a peaceful environment.

monthly grooming- medium energy of dogs. thepetworld.org

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Rescue Groups

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Rescue Groups

Rescue groups dedicated to Central Asian Shepherd Dogs provide a vital lifeline for these loyal and protective breeds in need of homes. They offer adoption opportunities, rehabilitation, and support to ensure these dogs find loving families that understand their unique needs. Supporting rescue groups helps in giving these remarkable dogs a second chance at a happy and fulfilling life.

Dogsblog.com

Central Asian Shepherd and Armenian Gampr Rescue Network

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Price

Central Asian Shepherd Dog Price

The price of a Central Asian Shepherd Dog typically ranges from $1,200 to $2,000, depending on factors such as breeder reputation, pedigree, and location.

When looking to buy a Central Asian Shepherd Dog (CASD), it’s crucial to find a reputable breeder who prioritizes the health and well-being of their dogs. Such breeders conduct thorough health checks on their puppies to ensure they are free from genetic disorders and other health issues.

Alabai Breeders

AKC Marketplace

Interesting Facts

Interesting Facts

  • The Central Asian Shepherd (CAS), also known as Alabay or Alabai, differs from many modern dog breeds in its origins. It did not primarily originate through human intervention.
  • In addition to their role as guardians, CAS dogs are also skilled hunters and have been used for hunting large game like wolves and wild boars.
  • They have been featured in the KUG Dog Show 2021.

Best For

Best For

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog (CAS) is best for experienced owners who can handle large, independent breeds. They thrive in homes with space to roam and need consistent training and socialization. CAS dogs are loyal and protective of their families, making them ideal for rural settings or homes with secure yards.

Best For- Families

Top Names

Top Names

Male Central Asian Shepherd Dog Names Female Central Asian Shepherd Dog Names
Maximus Valkyrie
Titan Zara
Bear Sasha
Thor Luna
Khan Nika

Pet Ratings

Adaptability

They are not the best dogs for first-timers but not the worst as well. They are known to be friendly and easy to train, which can make them a great pick for first-timers. The downside is that they require a lot of attention and grooming, which first-time pet owners may not have the time, training, or patience for.

Friendliness

There are different types of friendliness. Some dogs may be friendly to humans but not to other dogs. Other dogs may be friendly to both humans and other dogs. The breed is not the only factor that determines how friendly a dog will be. Dogs who have spent time with their siblings and mother until they are six to eight weeks old and have played with other dogs a lot during puppyhood are more likely to be friendly to other dogs.

Health and Grooming Needs

It's true that all dogs need some general care in order to stay healthy, but there are some breeds that don't require as much attention as others. If you're looking for a dog that is relatively low-maintenance in terms of health, then you might want to consider a breed like this.

Trainability

Dogs that are easy to train learn new things quickly. They quickly learn that if they have to do something when you say a word or sound, they will get a reward. Other dogs need more time and patience to learn this. But most breeds of dog are intelligent. This means that you can use rewards and games to teach them what you want them to do.

Exercise Needs

Different breeds of dogs have different needs when it comes to exercise. Some breeds are fine with a slow stroll around the block once a day, while others need more vigorous exercise every day. Breeds that were originally bred for physically demanding jobs, like herding or hunting, need especially active lifestyles to stay healthy and happy. Without enough exercise, these breeds may become overweight and destructive.

Key Takeaways

Guardian Instincts: Central Asian Shepherds are natural protectors, bred to guard livestock and territory.

Adaptability: With a thick double coat, they thrive in both cold and hot climates.

Independence: Known for their self-reliance, they bond with families but are cautious with strangers.

Loyalty: They are deeply loyal, forming strong bonds and showing affection and protectiveness to trusted owners.

Is a Central Asian Shepherd a good family dog?

Central Asian Shepherds can be good family dogs in the right environment. They are loyal and protective, making them excellent guardians for families. However, their independent nature and strong guarding instincts require early socialization and consistent training to ensure they integrate well into family life.

How much does a Central Asian Shepherd Dog cost?

The cost of a Central Asian Shepherd Dog can vary widely. On average, you can expect to pay between $1,000 to USD 2,000, depending on the breeder's reputation, the dog's lineage, and geographic location. Adoption fees from rescues or shelters may be lower.

What are the health problems with Central Asian Shepherds?

Common health issues in Central Asian Shepherds include hip dysplasia, which affects their mobility, and bloat (gastric dilatation and volvulus), a serious condition that can be life-threatening. They may also be prone to Von Willebrand's disease, a bleeding disorder, and progressive retinal atrophy (PRA), causing vision loss.

Do Central Asian Shepherds bark?

Yes, Central Asian Shepherds are known for being vocal and may bark to alert their owners to potential threats or intruders. Their protective nature makes them vigilant guardians.

How big do Central Asian Shepherd Dogs get?

Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are large and powerful. Males typically stand between 27-32 inches at the shoulder and weigh 100-110 pounds, while females are slightly smaller, standing 24-28 inches and weighing 80-100 pounds.

How intelligent are Central Asian Shepherd Dogs?

Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are intelligent and possess strong instincts for guarding and protecting. They are independent thinkers and may exhibit a reserved demeanor, which can be mistaken for aloofness. Training should be firm yet positive, focusing on their natural abilities and instincts.

Frequently Asked Questions

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