Central Asian Sheepdog – character, disposition, price

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The Central Asian Sheepdog, also known as the wolfhound, is a breed of dog that originated in Central Asia and was bred to guard flocks of sheep, cattle and horses. Today, the Central Asian Sheepdog is prized for its intelligence, faith in its shepherd and ability to defend its territory and its family.

Central Asian Sheepdog – description and appearance of the breed

The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog with impressive physical strength, muscular build and strong bones. Males reach a height of 70-90 cm and weigh 50 to 80 kg, while females are slightly smaller, reaching a height of 65-80 cm and weighing 40 to 60 kg. Their thick, dense coat protects them from the cold and frost, and features a variety of colors, such as white, black, brown, fawn, sand, red and gray.

Character of the Central Asian Shepherd dog breed

Skills – what should you know?

The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog with impressive strength and endurance. It is extremely independent and intelligent, as well as very brave and has a strong instinct to defend its territory and its shepherd. These dogs are known for their extraordinary sensitivity, as well as their ability to find and control large livestock such as cattle, horses and sheep.

What kind of personality does it have?

The Central Asian Shepherd is a very courageous, confident and intelligent dog. These are dogs that believe in their shepherd and are ready for any task he sets before them. These dogs are very loyal to their family, but at the same time they are extremely independent and require proper training and socialization. They can be suspicious of strangers and need proper education to learn when their reactions are appropriate.

Central Asian Sheepdog – how to train and raise?

Training and raising a Central Asian Sheepdog can be a challenge for novice dog owners, so it is recommended that they have experience working with dogs with similar characters.

The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog that needs consistency and a firm approach to training. The owner should be a leader for the dog and display a dominant attitude. It is especially important to provide him with proper early socialization to prevent possible problems with aggressive behavior toward strangers and animals.

Basic commands, such as “sit,” “leave,” and “come by the leg,” should be introduced gradually, and each achievement should be rewarded. The Central Asian Shepherd is a very intelligent dog that responds well to praise and reward, which makes training easier.

It is also worth remembering that the Central Asian Shepherd is a very active dog that needs a lot of exercise and mental stimulation. Regular walks and outdoor play are essential to give him a good dose of physical and mental activity.

For whom is the Central Asian Shepherd suitable?

The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog that is suitable for determined and consistent people who have experience with dogs of similar characters. This is a breed that requires a lot of time and attention from its owner, so it is not suitable for people who do not have time for regular walks and playtime with the dog.

In addition, due to its nature, the Central Asian Shepherd is not suitable for apartments in apartment blocks. It needs a spacious garden or a large area where it can run freely and spend time outdoors.

Central Asian Shepherd – price

The price of the Central Asian Shepherd depends on a number of factors, such as the age, origin, pedigree and the dog’s skills and achievements. The estimated price of Central Asian Shepherd puppies in Poland is about 2500-5000 zlotys, depending on the breeder and the origin of the dog.

Advantages and disadvantages of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The Central Asian Sheepdog is a dog with an impressive appearance and strong character, but before you decide to own such a pet, it is worth knowing its advantages and disadvantages.

Disadvantages

One of the biggest disadvantages of the Central Asian Shepherd is its independence. These dogs are very independent by nature and can sometimes show resistance to their owner’s commands. In addition, their strong defensive instinct means that they can be aggressive toward strangers and other animals. Therefore, only people with experience should breed this breed.

The Central Asian Shepherd can also be prone to genetic diseases such as joint dysplasia, eye disease and heart disease. Owners of these dogs should monitor their health and have regular check-ups.

Advantages

The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog that can be very loyal and devoted to its owner. Their strong defense instinct and defensive skills make them excellent guard dogs. They are also very intelligent and easy to learn, provided the training is conducted by someone with experience.

Another advantage of the Central Asian Sheepdog is its stamina and physical strength. These dogs are able to survive in extreme conditions and are excellent dogs for work on farms or in other physically demanding places.

Central Asian Sheepdog – Health, diseases and grooming

Nutrition

Adequate nutrition is key to maintaining the good health of the Central Asian Shepherd. He should be fed a well-balanced diet that provides him with the right amount of protein, carbohydrates and fats. It’s also worth remembering that dogs of this breed need a lot of exercise, so they should get the right amount of calories.

Grooming

Grooming the Central Asian Shepherd does not require too much time and effort. It is enough to comb its coat regularly to keep it in good condition. During the moulting period, the dog should be brushed daily to remove dead hair and prevent tangling of the coat. If not groomed regularly, the coat can become matted and the dog may suffer from itching and skin irritation.

In addition, the Central Asian Shepherd’s ears should be cleaned regularly to avoid infection and inflammation. Teeth should be brushed regularly to prevent tartar and gum disease.

Central Asian Sheepdogs are prone to skin diseases such as eczema, dandruff and ringworm. Therefore, it is important to keep your dog’s coat clean and hygienic, and to ensure that he gets a good diet.

When walking, it is worth taking care of your dog’s limbs, especially in winter, when anti-icing agents are used on sidewalks. You can use special creams for paws or put protective shoes on your dog.

It’s also a good idea to regularly inspect your dog’s eyes and remove debris such as dust or dirt from them. Keep in mind that a dog’s eyes are very sensitive and require care when cleaning.

If you have any doubts or worrisome symptoms, consult your veterinarian, who will help determine the appropriate care measures for your Central Asian Shepherd.

Diseases

The Central Asian Sheepdog is a rather healthy breed, but like any dog, it can suffer from certain genetic or acquired diseases. The most common diseases in Central Asian Sheepdogs include:

  • Joint dysplasia: this is a disease that affects many dog breeds, including Central Asian Sheepdogs. It involves abnormal bone formation in the joints, leading to pain and stiffness of movement. In severe cases, surgical treatment may be required.
  • Skin diseases: as mentioned earlier, Central Asian Sheepdogs are prone to skin diseases such as eczema, dandruff and ringworm. These require drug treatment and proper care.
  • Eye diseases: Central Asian Sheepdogs may have eye diseases such as cataracts, corneal disorders and conjunctivitis. If any symptoms occur, such as redness, tearing or soreness of the eyes, visit a veterinarian immediately.
  • Heart disease: Central Asian Sheepdogs may have heart disease, such as cardiomyopathy and arrhythmia. If you experience any symptoms, such as difficulty breathing, coughing or weakness, you should go to the vet immediately.

To minimize the risk of disease in your Central Asian Shepherd, make sure he gets regular vaccinations and vet check-ups. A proper diet, regular exercise and proper grooming of the dog’s coat, as well as dental and ear hygiene, are key to maintaining the dog’s health.

If there are any signs of disease, visit the vet immediately. Early diagnosis and treatment are key to ensuring your dog’s health and well-being.

Accessories and equipment or how to prepare for this breed?

Preparing to own a Central Asian Shepherd requires the right equipment and accessories that will be necessary for daily life with a dog of this breed.

For starters, you should purchase a sturdy, durable and appropriately sized dog bed that your dog can use freely. Since the Central Asian Shepherd is a large-sized dog, it is recommended to choose a bed of an appropriate size.

An important piece of equipment will also be a muzzle, which may be needed in certain situations, such as during visits to the vet or during transport. The muzzle should be made of dog-safe material, well-fitted to the dog’s size and comfortable to use.

Another item worth purchasing is a high-quality leash and collar. In the case of the Central Asian Shepherd, due to its strength and size, it is recommended to choose a strong leash made of durable materials, such as nylon or leather. The collar should be wide enough so that it does not pinch the dog, but at the same time holds well on the neck.

In addition to the standard equipment that is necessary for any dog, you should also think about buying some accessories specifically tailored to the needs of the Central Asian Shepherd.

One such accessory could be, for example, a cooling mat, which will help your dog maintain the right body temperature on hot days. Another useful gadget can be a special jacket or coat with which to cover the dog during colder days.

The Central Asian Shepherd is also a dog that loves to play. So it’s worth getting a variety of toys that will allow your dog to spend time in an active and creative way. A good choice can be, for example, balls or frisbees, which are tailored to the dog’s needs and will provide a lot of fun during play.

History of the Central Asian Shepherd dog breed

Origins

The history of the Central Asian Sheepdog dates back centuries, and its original function was to protect herds and people in Central Asia. The origins of the breed are not precisely known, but it is believed to have originated from an ancient breed of herding dogs from Central Asia, such as the Alabai or Turkish Shepherd.

The first records of Central Asian Sheepdogs date back to the 7th century AD and refer to their use by Mongolian armies. Later, these dogs were used by Russian armies to protect the border with China, as well as by shepherds to protect their flocks from predators.

Development of the breed

In 1930, the breed was recognized by the International Kennel Federation (FCI) as a herding breed under the name “Central Asian Shepherd Dog.” In the 1960s and 1970s, the breed began to gain popularity in Europe and the United States.

Currently

Today, Central Asian Sheepdogs are used as defense and guard dogs, as well as rescue and therapy dogs. Their intelligence, independence and loyalty make them ideal companions for responsible owners.

In Poland, Central Asian Sheepdogs are not yet a popular breed, but they are gaining in popularity every year.

Central Asian Sheepdog dog pattern

The Central Asian Sheepdog dog standard is defined by the International Kennel Federation (FCI) and includes the following characteristics:

  • Appearance: The Central Asian Sheepdog is a large, strong and muscular dog with a shapely, stocky body. Its back is straight and strong, and its chest is broad and deep. The head is proportionate to the body, and the eyes are dark and deep-set. The ear is medium-sized, triangular, standing or slightly drooping.
  • Coat: The Central Asian Shepherd has a coat of medium length, dense and coarse. The undercoat is soft and dense. The most common colors are white, fawn, gray, red, black or black with fawn or white markings.
  • Height and weight: The height at the withers of males ranges from 65 to 78 cm, and females from 60 to 70 cm. The weight of males ranges from 50 to 70 kg, and females from 40 to 60 kg.
  • Character: The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog with a strong character and an independent personality. He is intelligent, courageous, loyal and alert, which makes him a good guard and defense dog. It needs proper upbringing and training to become a good companion for its owner.
  • Purpose: The Central Asian Sheepdog is a herding, defense and guard dog. Its original function was to protect flocks and people in Central Asia, but today it is also used as a police, rescue and therapy dog.

The breed standard is important to breeders and dog lovers because it helps maintain the breed standard and helps in the selection of dogs for breeding. However, each dog is an individual and may deviate slightly from the breed standard in terms of character or appearance.

Central Asian Sheepdog – interesting facts about the breed

The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog breed with a very interesting history and many interesting characteristics. Here are some interesting facts about this breed:

  • Central Asian Sheepdogs were originally bred by nomadic tribes in Central Asia to protect their flocks from predators such as wolves and bears.
  • Due to their impressive size and strength, Central Asian Sheepdogs have gained a reputation as extremely effective defense dogs. They remain popular in their homeland and are used by border guards, the military and police.
  • The Central Asian Shepherd is one of the largest dog breeds. Males can reach a weight of up to 70 kilograms and a height at the withers of about 70 centimeters.
  • Central Asian Sheepdogs are very independent and self-reliant. They are strong-willed dogs with a need for dominance, which means they need an owner who is firm and consistent in training them.
  • Despite their imposing stature, Central Asian Sheepdogs are very mobile and like to run and play. Owners of this breed must ensure that their dogs get enough physical and mental activity to avoid health and behavioral problems.
  • In Poland, Central Asian Sheepdogs are not yet very popular, but their popularity continues to grow. They are wonderful and loyal canine companions that will work well as defense and guard dogs, as well as companion dogs for families with large children.

Summary

The Central Asian Sheepdog is a dog with an impressive build and extraordinary character that requires a responsible and consistent approach to upbringing. It is a breed that is ideally suited for people with experience in dog management. The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog that is friendly to its family, but shows a strong approach to protecting its territory and those it considers its own. This breed can suffer from some genetic diseases, and its disadvantages can include somewhat picky dietary requirements and an intense coat line. Nevertheless, if properly raised and cared for, the Central Asian Shepherd is a faithful and loyal companion for his family.

Emily Carter is an experienced pet enthusiast and writer, with over a decade of experience caring for and working with animals. From her early days volunteering at animal shelters to becoming a pet care advisor, Emily has dedicated her life to understanding the unique needs of pets and helping pet owners provide the best possible care for their furry companions. She is especially passionate about topics like pet nutrition, behavior, training, and animal welfare.

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