If you have never seen a Central Asian Ovtcharka before, get ready to be very impressed by this dogs appearance! Besides the athletic power that this dog was endowed with, it also is a gifted watchdog. However, do not get intimidated by its massive appearance: this dog can be extremely gentle and affectionate with its owner, and loving and playful with children. When it comes to strangers, though, it does not hesitate to prove its loyalty and bravery.
The History of the Breed
Due to the extended geographical region that this breed was spread on, the Central Asian Ovtcharka is known under several different names which differ from one region to another. Thus, in Turkmenistan, this dog is called Alabai, which is believed to be the real name of the breed, and consequently, the place of origin of this beautiful and exceptional animal. However, some researchers argue that the breed belongs not only to Turkmenistan, but it is common for centuries in the region between the Caspian Sea (in the West), Pamir (in the East) and between Northern Iran, Afghanistan and Southern Siberia. More explicitly, these areas cover countries such as: Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Afghanistan, Iran and Russia.
The Physical Description of the Breed
The Central Asian is a very large dog with a strong bone structure, strong muscles, with a body slightly longer than tall. Its head is massive, its eyes are dark and round, its ears are cropped and close to the head; also, its tail is carried high, but it is sickle-shaped and is hanging when cropped. The differences between males and females are pronounced. The male is much larger and stronger. But, this dog should be mainly evaluated taking into account the qualities that make it a good work and guard dog; its looks do not define it.
Its body is covered by a thick undercoat made of short, coarse hair. There are two coat lengths that are accepted: long hair variety, with hair that measures from 7 to 8 cm on the back, ears, neck, back of the legs and tail; and the variety with the short and silky hair, which does not go over 5 cm. The Central Asian dog's coat is colored in white, black, grey, straw color, reddish brown and grey brown.
The Personality of the Central Asian Dog Breed
This dog is extremely devoted to its family, asking in return for nothing but love and respect. This breed is very suspicious when it comes in contact with strangers or unfamiliar dogs. Apart from this, it is a very stable dog. Its tendency to react quickly when it feels threatened is something that can easily be dealt with. It requires firm training and intense socializing with people, as well as with other dogs. Even though the Central Asian Ovtcharka dog can easily adapt to any kind of environment, lack of freedom can affect it deeply - it will never be truly happy living indoors.
