Central Asian Shepherd: Dog Breed Characteristics and Care
History, Care Tips, and Helpful Information for Pet Owners
Getty Images/Anna Kanishcheva
Central Asian Shepherd dogs are large and in charge dogs.Central Asian shepherds may be one of the first breeds of dogs ever to have been in existence but they definitely aren't a good first dog for someone looking for a pet. This breed has many appreciable qualities, but they are also very strong and fearless which can be difficult attributes for someone with no experience working with dogs to manage. Knowing more about this large working dog can help you decide if it's the right fit for your lifestyle.
Breed Overview
Group: Working
Height: 25.5-27.5 inches
Weight: 88-110 lbs
Coat: Smooth with an undercoat
Coat Colors: Black, brindle, gray, white, fawn
Life Span: 12-17 years
Temperament: Protective, adaptable, trainable, strong, independent, courageous
Hypoallergenic: No
Origin Country: Various Asian countries
Characteristics of the Central Asian Shepherd
Affection Level | Medium |
Friendliness | Medium |
Kid-Friendly | Medium |
Pet-Friendly | Medium |
Exercise Needs | Medium |
Playfulness | Medium |
Energy Level | Medium |
Trainability | High |
Intelligence | Medium |
Tendency to Bark | Medium |
Amount of Shedding | Medium |
History of the Central Asian Shepherd
The Central Asian shepherd is an ancient dog breed that has adapted to the environments they lived in throughout Asia, rather than being developed by humans. They have been used throughout the years to guard not only livestock but also people and possessions from animal predators, human invaders, and extreme climates.
Central Asian Shepherd Care
Large, highly protective, and double-coated, this ancient breed needs some specific care to keep them happy, healthy, and fulfilled.
Exercise
Central Asian shepherds are large and need some space to roam, but they aren't a high-energy breed. Long walks and a big yard to walk around in are ideal as this breed isn't looking to start sprinting or running in agility trials.
Grooming
A thick double coat is beneficial for protecting this breed from harsh environments and is also a low-maintenance coat. Occasional brushing and bathing is all this breed needs, but be prepared for a major shed once a year that some refer to as a "fur storm." Ear cleanings, nail trims, and teeth brushing should also be considered routine for Central Asian shepherds.
Training
Central Asian shepherds are strong-willed, independent, and intelligent, but they are also very protective and large. These qualities can make it difficult to train this breed, so it takes an experienced owner who can establish good training habits and routines early on.
Common Health Problems
Central Asian shepherds have been around for a long time without much human intervention, but they aren't completely exempt from health problems. Some issues that may affect this breed include:
Dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa
Yearly check-ups with your veterinarian can help keep your Central Asian shepherd healthy and catch any underlying issues. Once your dog is over the age of seven or eight, twice-yearly check-ups should commence because dogs age much more quickly than humans, especially if they are a giant breed.
Read Next: Keep Your Dog Healthy
Diet and Nutrition
Like all dogs, Central Asian shepherds should eat a nutritionally complete diet formulated for dogs by veterinary nutritionists. The major dog food brands will usually meet these criteria. Two meals a day helps to keep your dog's blood sugar regulated, but be sure to measure out the appropriate amount of food based on your dog's weight, age, activity, and caloric content of the food you are feeding.
It is often recommended to offer a food that is formulated for giant or extra-large breeds, but if you aren't sure what your Central Asian shepherd should eat, ask your veterinarian. Some dogs will require specific diets if they have certain types of health concerns.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Central Asian Shepherd Dog
The Central Asian shepherd is not as common as some other giant breeds, but they are still able to be purchased from breeders. The American Kennel Club (AKC) Marketplace is one way to find reputable breeders for this breed, but you may also be able to see and meet dogs and their people at dog shows. No matter how you source a breeder though, be sure you are able to see the parents of the puppies and where they live before making a purchase. Expect to pay around $1500 for a puppy.
Central Asian Shepherd Dog Overview
Pros
Low-maintenance coat
Very loyal to their owners
Typically healthy breed
Cons
Can be aggressive toward strangers
Not good for apartments
Difficult to train
More Dog Breeds and Further Research
If you’re interested in other dog breeds that originated in Asia, check out:
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between a Central Asian shepherd and a Great Pyrenees?
Great Pyrenees are gentle dogs that were bred to guard sheep. Central Asian shepherds are territorial and were bred to protect livestock and people. The personalities of these two dogs are very different.
Are Central Asian shepherds good family dogs?
While Central Asian shepherds are very protective, they are not a relaxed or gentle breed. They can be aggressive with people they don't know, which makes it difficult to introduce new family members or friends into a home.
Are Central Asian shepherds good apartment dogs?
No, this dog breed is large and needs space to roam and walk around. They are not good apartment dogs.
Read the original article on The Spruce Pets.
