Description

The Central Asian Shepherd’s origins come from somewhere around Asia Minor, Ural and the Caspian Sea. Descendant of a Russian Molosser breed, or perhaps the Tibetan Mastiff. They were bred to protect their masters flocks. The Central Asian Shepherd is quite popular in his home country. The male Central Asian Shepherd stands between 27 and 32 in. tall at the withers and weighs between 121 and 176 lbs at maturity. Female Central Asian Shepherd stand between 24 and 27 in. tall at the withers and weigh between 88 and 143 lbs. at maturity. The have a luxuriously thick coat that comes in a wide variety of colors. They are a powerful dog with a large bone structure, broad shoulders, and are well muscled.

Temperament

The Central Asian Shepherd is good with member of his own family, but will need very early socialization if you want to make him part of the family and not keep him exclusively for herding and flock protection. They do enjoy being a part of the family and can be quite loyal and loving to his human flock. They will get along with cats and other dogs in the home as long as those animals don’t challenge his authority.

Grooming/Exercise

They will need regular brushing with a good stiff bristled brush, and extra brushing will be needed when the Central Asian is shedding out. The Central Asian Shepherd will make a fantastic jogging partner for the right owner, and will need a minimum of a daily walk. Should have a secure area to play in. These large dogs will not do well living in an apartment or townhouse, but should rather have a home with a fenced yard.

Health

Life Expectancy is somewhere around 10 years. Dogs living in their homeland seem to live between 12 and 14 years.

Possible Issues

• Hip Dysplasia
• Elbow Dysplasia
• Bloat