Central Asian Shepherd: Your Complete Guide

The Central Asian shepherd is a livestock guardian dog (LGD). This dog breed originating from the steppes of Central Asia also goes by the Turkmen wolf-hound, alabay, or alabai.

Like the other livestock guardian breeds, Central Asian shepherds are solid-built, muscular dogs with protective personalities. They are working dogs capable of handling Central Asia’s harsh winters and rugged terrains.

Although livestock guardians don’t suit everyone’s life, they can become excellent pets in the right setting and household. Our article will cover this livestock guardian’s physical features, temperament, history, and care needs. Read on to determine if the Central Asian shepherd is an appropriate dog breed for you.

Quick Look at the Central Asian Shepherd

The below chart is an overview of the Central Asian shepherd dog. You’ll find a more detailed rundown of the breed’s characteristics below.

What Is the History of Central Asian Shepherds?

The Central Asian shepherd is one of the oldest dog breeds used for livestock guarding. The exact origins of this breed are unknown, but the Central Asian shepherd dates back thousands of years.

Unlike many other dog breeds, humans had little to none with the Central Asian shepherd’s upbringing. They were a result of the environment rather than selectively breeding to create the perfect livestock guardian. This makes the Central Asian shepherd a natural at guarding livestock.

For a brief period of time, the Red Army also utilized the Central Asian shepherd for protection work during the Soviet era. The breed only made its way to the US after the collapse of the Soviet government, and the American Kennel Club recognized the Central Asian shepherd in 1996.

In modern days, the Central Asian shepherd still guards livestock in many regions, spanning from their native lands to Africa. They aren’t popular dogs in the US and are mostly seen on ranches and large farms.

What Do Central Asian Shepherds Look Like?

Central Asian shepherds are big, muscular dogs that stand much taller than the average dog. Despite their bulky appearance, Central Asian shepherds are agile and can run endlessly, whether it is to chase predators or herd livestock.

The Central Asian shepherd has a double coat with a thick undercoat that insulates them from harsh winters. The coat color varies, from white and black to fawn and silver gray. They can also have two colored coats, with one color dominating and the other presenting itself in spots.

What Size Is a Central Asian Shepherd?

The Central Asian shepherd is a large dog breed. The size varies slightly depending on their ancestral origins, with dogs from colder parts of Central Asia being taller and heavier.

Typically, the Central Asian shepherd stands 24 to 28 inches tall at the shoulder. Their weight can be anywhere from 90 pounds to all the way up to 160 pounds, making them one of the largest dog breeds.

What Is a Central Asian Shepherd’s Coat Type and Length?

The Central Asian shepherd has a dense undercoat with short to medium-length fur. The undercoat insulates them from the harsh winters of Central Asia, which can be as freezing as -40ºF in some areas.

The ability to withstand cold climates with their thick coats is one of the reasons the Central Asian shepherd makes such great livestock guardians. They shed moderately year-round and a bit more during spring and fall.

What Is a Central Asian Shepherds Temperament?

Like many other livestock guardians, the Central Asian shepherd has some typical traits. They are intelligent, protective, and watchful dogs that are always on the lookout for predators.

The Central Asian shepherd can be as affectionate as they are protective, but this is only reserved for their family. They tend to be assertive towards strangers until making sure they don’t pose a threat. These dogs get along well with other pets in the family but may try to dominate strange dogs.

The independent and intelligent nature of the Central Asian shepherd, with their hard-working personality, may make them claim leadership. Although they aren’t likely to boss around their owners, early socialization is critical to ensure they are well-behaved towards other dogs.

These traits of the Central Asian shepherd make them ideal for guarding duties as much as for protecting livestock. If you have a large, fenced-in property, they will make sure intruders aren’t coming anywhere near.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Good With Kids?

The Central Asian Shepherd has an affectionate nature and is generally good with kids. However, their large size doesn’t make them the best breed for families with young children. They are more suited for households with older children who know how to behave around dogs.

Although large, Central Asian shepherds are agile dogs and won’t say no to playing with children. In fact, play is one of the best activities to form a strong bond between a Central Asian shepherd and kids. Regardless, supervision is a must to ensure their size doesn’t cause accidental injuries.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Good With Other Animals?

Central Asian shepherds can be good with other animals, but they can also be domineering. It depends on whether the other animal belongs to the family or not. Since they’ve been used for guarding livestock for hundreds of years, Central Asian shepherds will count any animal in the family as their own.

From small animals, such as chickens and rabbits, to larger ones, including other dogs and cats, Central Asian shepherds get along well with other animals in the family. However, they tend to act cautiously towards strange animals. They aren’t likely to chase every animal they see but may bark or charge to intimidate.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Aggressive?

Central Asian shepherds have strong protective instincts, which makes them more inclined to bark and display aggressive behavior. They are also territorial, which may make them hostile towards strange animals or people if they enter their space.

If you intend to have a Central Asian shepherd as a family pet, it’s crucial to socialize and train early to avoid behavioral issues, especially with strange dogs. They won’t display aggression randomly but may do so when detecting a threat to their territory or family.

These can be difficult to manage for novice dog owners. Central Asian shepherds are more suited for those experienced working with similar dog breeds. Still, obedience training from a young age can mitigate these aggressive tendencies from their territorial and protective nature.

Do Central Asian Shepherds Bark?

Central Asian shepherds have a powerful bark, loud enough to make intruders and predators think twice. One of the best qualities of a livestock guardian is to alert their owners of threats, and they do so with excellence. However, they aren’t particularly vocal dogs like the Siberian husky or the beagle.

While they will bark to say “I’m here” and let their packs know, Central Asian shepherds are more likely to investigate rather than only bark to alert.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Affectionate?

The Central Asian shepherd is one of the most affectionate livestock guardian dog breeds. They enjoy getting pets and all the affection they can get from any family member. However, only their people will see their lovey-dovey side. They are reserved towards strangers, and it takes them a while to get used to the presence of new people.

Although Central Asian shepherds aren’t giant cuddly dogs, they greet their people with love and return to their duty to guard and protect. Rather than pets, this is their way of showing love and affection, which they’ve been doing excellently for thousands of years.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Intelligent?

Intelligence is a highly sought-after quality in livestock guardians. They must be independent thinkers that solve problems on their own. The Central Asian shepherd is no exception.

These dogs are extremely intelligent and will find ways to get what they want, especially if it involves protecting their territory. While this intelligence makes them understand new things fast, they must be interested in learning to get them to go along with training.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Energetic?

The Central Asian shepherd is a medium-energy dog breed. Like every dog, they need daily walks to stay physically fit. As a family pet, half an hour-long daily walks are enough to meet their exercise needs.

Since they are working dogs, Central Asian shepherds do best in large areas they can claim as their own and police. This is often the best physical exercise for a Central Asian shepherd. However, they are usually up for playtime, whether fetching or running around with friendly, familiar dogs.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Easy to Train?

Central Asian shepherds may be intelligent, but training these dogs isn’t easy and may take time. They are eager to please, but their independent nature makes reinforcing certain behaviors challenging, especially the ones that go against their protective and territorial nature.

With Central Asian shepherds, early training plays an important role. Starting basic obedience training from puppyhood is the best way to avoid behavioral problems. Otherwise, they may become rowdy dogs.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Good Watchdogs?

Central Asian shepherds are excellent watchdogs. They are brave and will not only bark but also get closer to investigate – even better for those looking for a protection dog.

This territorial and watchful temperament doesn’t make them ideal pets for those living in apartments. They may bark at people walking near the hallway or entrance.

Are Central Asian Shepherds Good Service Dogs?

The Central Asian shepherd dog isn’t the best candidate for service dog work. There are several reasons why they aren’t a good fit for the duties these dogs uphold. Firstly, service dogs must be social yet dedicated animals that stay on the job anywhere their handler goes. Secondly, they must be highly trainable.

Central Asian shepherds are protective dogs that approach strange people and animals with suspicion. Added to their independent personality, they don’t make a fitting dog breed for the duties of a service animal. They are more suited for what they’ve been employed for hundreds of years – guarding and protecting livestock.

How to Care for a Central Asian Shepherd?

The Central Asian shepherd is a relatively low-maintenance breed that doesn’t demand much from the owner in the right environment. The care needs of a Central Asian shepherd living in a home with a small backyard and another guarding livestock on a ranch would be drastically different.

For example, a Central Asian shepherd working as a livestock guardian will cover their exercise needs by roaming freely and patrolling their territory. Others living as family pets must be walked daily. These dogs also need more mental stimulation; introducing activities that stimulate them mentally is recommended.

Aside from these – like every dog – Central Asian shepherds need regular vet visits to avoid health problems the breed is prone to – more on their health below.

Do You Need to Groom a Central Asian Shepherd?

Central Asian shepherds have very little grooming needs. Weekly brushing is mostly enough to maintain their coat. During the heavy shedding period, they require more frequent brushing to remove dead hair.

Other than regular brushing, Central Asian shepherds should be washed only when dirty or develop a smell. They don’t need haircuts or trips to a professional groomer.

Do Central Asian Shepherds Shed?

Central Asian shepherds shed moderately year-round. It’s easy to manage shedding by brushing regularly. Their coat sheds more in spring and fall in preparation for the hot summers and cold winters.

What Health Problems Do Central Asian Shepherds Have?

The Central Asian shepherd is a healthy dog breed. There aren’t any known illnesses they inherit. However, they are prone to developing canine diseases that affect similarly-sized dog breeds. The most common health problems in Central Asian shepherds are as follows.

• Elbow dysplasia
• Hip dysplasia
• Bloat
• Heart problems
• Arthritis

As with any other dog breed, regular vet visits and identifying these health problems early make a significant difference. Central Asian shepherds should be taken to the vet once a year for much of their lives and more frequently during puppy and senior years.

How Long Do Central Asian Shepherds Live?

Central Asian shepherds are healthy dogs without hereditary ailments. This gives the breed a longer life expectancy than many other large breeds. On average, the Central Asian shepherd lives between 12 and 17 years.

However, there are many things that affect how long a dog is likely to live, such as genetics, environment, exercise, and even stress levels. That said, the life expectancy may vary drastically.

What Should a Central Asian Shepherd Eat?

The Central Asian shepherd, like every other dog, thrives on a well-balanced diet. They should eat high-quality dog food appropriate for their age and adult weight. Many livestock guardian owners also choose to feed their livestock guardians a raw diet, but those considering this should consult their veterinarian first.

Is a Central Asian Shepherd the Right Dog for Me?

The Central Asian shepherd is a livestock guardian. This dog breed perfectly matches those living on a farm with livestock to guard. They can also make ideal family pets for homes looking for a guard dog.

When well-socialized and trained early, some traits of the Central Asian shepherd that make them difficult to manage can become easy. With enough daily exercise and mental stimulation, Central Asian shepherds can thrive in families of all sizes, including those with children.

However, these dogs need plenty of space to roam. They do better in the countryside with enough space to satisfy their needs than in an urban city. Provided these, Central Asian shepherds can thrive and live a happy life.

If you’re looking for a gentle giant to welcome everybody with open arms, the Central Asian shepherd is definitely not the one. Consider other large dog breeds that are friendly towards other dogs and people, like the Bernese mountain dog or Great Dane.