Alabai is the correct name for the breed. Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dog). Possible ailments of a dog

Fearless and strong Central asian shepherd dog- the embodiment of courage and unconditional loyalty to its owner. Another common name for this breed is Alabai(Alabai).

Appearance of Alabai

These dogs are characterized by a massive head, similar in shape to a rectangle. The transition from the forehead to the muzzle may seem rough, but this impression is only due to the large brow ridges.

The Alabai's muzzle does not tend to taper towards the nose. Thick upper lips hang slightly, covering a strong and large jaw.

The ears (as well as the tail) are usually cropped in puppyhood, but with long ears the Alabai looks less aggressive and more cute.

Photo 2. Alabais have an article and self-confidence

Ear cropping for Alabais is a voluntary procedure. The breed standard does not oblige this, and at many shows, breeders present Central Asian Shepherds with long ears and a tail.

On the front of the Central Asian Shepherd’s neck there is a “suspension” in the form of a collar, which adds weight and volume to the dog’s already strong neck.

The paws are straight, stand straight and parallel, providing the dog with an easy “cat-like” gait.

The thick coat of these dogs remains just as thick in both short-haired and long-haired representatives. The length of the fur can reach 10 cm.

The breed standard allows for a wide variety of colors. Only blue and brown shades are excluded.

This type of shepherd dog can be black, black and white, fawn, red and other colors, including multi-color options in various combinations.

History of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The nomadic way of life of the peoples of Asia in ancient times, their defenselessness against wild predators formed a set of requirements, possessing which the dog actually became a universal helper and protector.

Protection was required not only for people, but also for their households. Central Asian Shepherd Dogs fully met these requirements.

At that time, the Alabai breed was just beginning to take shape. But people could rely on these strong and reliable dogs with complete confidence...

Photo 3. Handsome Alabai

People kept the dogs that showed the least aggression, the most obedient and at the same time the strongest and strongest.

Already several thousand years ago, such unique breeding work gradually formed a breed that became a true symbol of reliability.

Many khans of that time deliberately studied, understanding the importance of having such assistants.

Since such a “folk” selection of the best qualities of dogs was carried out everywhere, the breed had several names: Turkmen wolfhound, Alabai and a number of others, even deeply dialectal ones.

The official name of the breed (as written in the standard) is Central asian shepherd dog.

In Russia (at that time - the USSR), the breed began its march in the first half of the 20th century, and its closest relatives are the Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Spanish Mastiff, Mongolian Shepherd Dog and a number of other dog breeds.

Character of Alabai

These big dogs have a lot of courage. One of the most noticeable and pronounced features of the Alabai’s character is their fearlessness and courage.

Over the course of dozens of centuries, these dogs have been bred to have the best guarding and working qualities, thanks to which Alabai are not afraid of anything at all. At least that's what it sometimes seems like.

An ill-wisher must remember right away - an Asian will attack immediately after a certain boundary of his (or the owner’s) personal space is crossed. And Alabai begins to monitor a potential threat as soon as the first signs of it appear.

Photo 4. Alabai is a faithful family friend

These are very smart dogs, that’s why they don’t attack “just like that” and don’t bite “just anyone.”

The most common threat to such dogs, in their opinion, is other dogs. Therefore, when walking with such a friend, you need to be on alert, even if he is on a leash.

The dead and strong grip of the Alabai, with which they once strangled wild animals in ancient times, can become fatal for a neighbor’s pet...

People should not relax either, because these dogs tend to be distrustful and suspicious of any strangers.

A real guard and watchman with the most striking manifestations of these qualities is the Central Asian Shepherd Dog.

These dogs tend to stay awake in the dark. This trait was also formed thousands of years ago, when people at night could only count on the vigilance of their four-legged friends.

Alabai with family

In the family circle, the Alabai turns into a sweet, flexible pet who adores you and your family with all his heart.

These are very cheerful and active pets who will not let themselves or you get bored. These dogs love to frolic and fool around while walking, where, preferably, there should be no other dogs.

Photo 5. Central Asian dogs get along well with pets

Central Asian Shepherds know very well what exactly belongs to him and his owner. “Asians” are calm about cats and even other dogs with whom they grew up and were raised.

They will with all their dedication protect not only you, but also your garden from attacks by geese or sheep.

Their intelligence allows them to calculate with mathematical precision the distance a predator (or threat) is “allowed” to approach.

When a predator crosses this invisible border, the alabai literally breaks loose and uses its entire “arsenal” to eliminate the threat.

Intelligence allows “Asians” to maintain self-confidence regardless of the situation.

Peculiarities of raising a Central Asian Shepherd Dog

Alabais are very smart, distinguished by perseverance and independence. Such a pet needs to be trained from early puppyhood, when the Alabai makes contact with its owner with great joy.

On the part of the owner, it is necessary to show patience and perseverance towards the “trainee”. The owner should not “give up” and show uncertainty in his own actions.

If an “Asian” finds an Achilles heel in your character, he will immediately take advantage of it.

Photo 6. Alabai demands respect

Having matured and become wiser, such a dog, out of reluctance to carry out certain commands, can, for example, pretend to be sick and weak. And this is no joke.

The goal that the owner of the Alabai should set for himself when raising him is complete unquestioning obedience and execution of commands.

Otherwise, in various situations, it will simply be impossible to cope with him and pull him away from another dog.

Loyal attitude towards other four-legged animals is second important goal, which the owner of the Central Asian Shepherd must strive to achieve during training.

If you can control the Alabai’s outbursts of aggression towards other dogs, you will avoid a lot of problems and troubles.

It is possible to achieve results in achieving such goals only by accustoming the Alabai from childhood to walks in places where representatives of other breeds can be found, and also by not forgetting to punish the pet if it unreasonably shows aggression towards another dog.

Video about the Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd) dog breed:

Update: October 2017

Alabai (from Turkic - multi-colored) is a typical Molossoid, whose ancestors took part in gladiatorial fights and defended the lands from wolves. It is a rather large, but proportionally built dog with voluminous, but not prominent muscles. Other names of the breed are Turkmen wolfhound, Alapar, Sagi Dakhmarda, Tobet, Asian. In the RKF and FCI the breed is listed as a Central Asian Shepherd Dog. It is not well studied, but very popular. The dog ranks 8th in the ranking of the largest breeds in the world. Despite its external power and impressive size, it moves very harmoniously and does not give the impression of a lump.

The main features characteristic of the Central Asian Shepherd:

• The main advantages of the breed are strength, intelligence, endurance, and balance.
• Proud and independent character, prone to dominance, which causes difficulties in education.
• Strong sexual dimorphism: differences in the behavior of males and females.
• The owner of the strongest jaw, even if attacked while wearing a muzzle, can cause serious injury.
• Requires a firm hand from an owner who has earned the trust and respect.
• Will not tolerate violence or humiliating treatment.
• Incredibly loyal to the owner and all members of his family.
• Aggressive towards all dogs except pets.
• Affectionate and good-natured towards his family, especially children.
• It is distinguished by the highest security and protective qualities.
• Possesses good health. Prone to problems with joints of the limbs, cardiovascular diseases and obesity.
• Most snake bites are relatively easy to tolerate.

Characteristics of the Central Asian Shepherd: advantages and disadvantages

Who is the breed suitable for? Who won't suit it?	Suitable: Active person. Athlete. Experienced dog breeder. A man of strong character. Will not work: Sedentary person. Weak people. Women. Children. Amateur in dog breeding.
How do you treat other pets and dogs while walking?	Due to the fact that for several thousand years the Alabai has defended its territory from wolves, it is extremely hostile to dogs. During a walk, a Central Asian Shepherd can easily tear apart a dog walking nearby. He has few equals in battle, so you should take the dog’s upbringing very seriously and teach him unquestioning obedience from a very young age. On the other hand, the breed is quite loyal to puppies and pets (even cats). Moreover, the Alabai will protect pets on its territory.
How often and for how long should you walk?	It is necessary to walk away from people and animals. The duration of walking per day is at least 2 – 3 hours. Preferably in an area where the dog can run freely without a leash. Lack of walking leads to obesity, arthrosis and arthritis.
Is it possible to keep it on a chain in the yard?	A proud dog with an independent disposition will not tolerate such humiliating content. On a chain, the shepherd will be in a constant state of stress, tension and at the same time boredom. At the same time, such content has the most negative effect on the dog’s health: the muscles weaken, and diseases of the musculoskeletal system develop. The best option would be a spacious enclosure for your pet. In any case, the Alabai needs walking and constant communication with the owner.
Who is stronger - the Alabai or the Caucasian Shepherd?	The characteristics of the Alabai and Caucasian Shepherd breeds are very similar, so even an experienced dog handler will not give a definite answer to this question. The breeds differ in temperament: the Alabai is more flexible, the Caucasian Shepherd has an explosive character; For a Caucasian, all strangers are enemies; for an Alabai, only those who pose a real threat. But physiologically the breeds are extremely similar, which is why the outcome of the proposed fight cannot be predicted.
How to care for wool? Does it shed a lot?	The Central Asian Shepherd sheds heavily once a year - in the spring. This is another reason why the dog should not be kept in an apartment. During the rest of the year, the coat sheds moderately. For grooming, it is enough to comb your pet about 1 – 2 times a week.
How often should I bathe?	Since the coat of this breed has self-cleaning properties, you should not bathe the animal unless necessary. After a walk, just wash your belly and paws with warm running water without detergents. If the dog is dirty, then you can bathe it using a special veterinary shampoo without dyes and fragrances, preferably based on herbs. Alabais love to swim in natural bodies of water. This is very useful for them, so try to take your pet out into nature more often during the warm season.
Attitude towards children	The Central Asian Shepherd has a great attitude towards children: she understands that they are safe and tries to take care of and protect the kids, loves to play with them. This applies both to members of one’s own “pack” and to other people’s children.
Purpose of the breed. What services is it suitable for?	The main purpose is protection and security: Protection of livestock or entrusted territory, including industrial zones. Traction force. Protection of the owner, his “pack” and home. Hunting for wild animals.
Is he sometimes aggressive?	A properly raised dog, healthy and without mental disorders, will attack only if there is a real threat to the owner or its territory. In neutral, the alabai is essentially indifferent to the people around him.
Who is better to choose - a male or a female?	Basically, bitches are more mobile, more dynamic, more impulsive. They are more sensitive than males. The latter in most cases are prone to a phlegmatic temperament. Males are usually more suitable for guarding, they are fearless and, without hesitation, will rush to attack when there are provoking factors. Bitches are more careful: they prefer to bark at the enemy from afar or block the path to their territory without engaging. Although, in a fight, the male will immediately let go of the enemy as soon as he realizes that he has won. A bitch, on the contrary, more often fights until the enemy dies. Bitches will constantly fight with the owner for leadership. A male dog, on the contrary, having once learned his place, does not try to disrupt the hierarchy. For inexperienced dog breeders, it is definitely better to choose a female dog: the dimensions and weight of the dog are smaller, and in case of any omissions in training, it will be easier to correct them.

The advantages of keeping the breed include:

• High intelligence and innate security and protective qualities.
• The highest devotion to the owner and his family, especially children.
• Undemanding to living conditions and cleanliness.
• The dog's coat has the ability to self-clean, so it always looks neat.
• Despite its large size, Alabai has a moderate appetite and is unpretentious in food.
• Not afraid of heat, cold, temperature changes.
• Outside his territory he is quite loyal and calm.
• Will not bark in vain.
• Loves children.

The largest Alabai in the world lives in Stavropol and weighs 125 kg. A nickname to match the giant is Bulldozer. When it stands on its hind legs, its height exceeds 2 meters. According to the ranking of the largest breeds in the world, the Central Asian Shepherd is in 8th place.

Disadvantages and difficulties of content:

• Not suitable for keeping in an apartment; due to its large size, it requires a large area for keeping.
• Requires long walking and serious physical activity.
• Not for those who are afraid of difficulties and are not ready to constantly control and educate.
• Tendency to occupy a high hierarchical rank in the family, which leads to insubordination.
• Professional training is required, otherwise it may become uncontrollable.
• Aggressive towards other people's dogs.
• Heavy annual spring molt.
• He loves to dig holes, you can't stop him from doing it.
• Does not tolerate high humidity well.
• Tendency to gather and wander (educational measures should be taken immediately).
• Such a feature of the breed is low socialization.
• The inability of most representatives of the breed to “work” on foreign territory.

Photos of Alabai

Description of the breed: character and temperament

Alabais have a balanced and stable psyche. This determines the main behavioral qualities of the breed - calm and even phlegmatic, lack of fussiness, slow reaction to environmental stimuli. On the other hand, these dogs cannot be called uncouth or stupid: the Alabai is incredibly sensitive to the slightest changes in the owner’s behavior, he has high intelligence, and in training he shows remarkable cunning. The character flaws of the Central Asian Shepherd can roughly include such traits as pride, independence, some gloominess, and distrust of strangers.

One of the great qualities of the breed is that the shepherd will not attack the enemy unless necessary. It is quite difficult to provoke her. The dog is moderately indifferent to strangers who do not pose a threat, and is affectionate towards children.

Central Asian Shepherds are very patient and kind towards members of the owner’s family and his pets.

The main difference between the character of the Central Asian Shepherd and other working breeds is the ability to make decisions independently. It will not be possible to force him to serve in the style of a German Shepherd. This dog will carry out commands only if the fairness or necessity of the requirements is obvious to it. With proper upbringing and subject to stable contact with the owner, the dog itself understands what is acceptable and what is not. This is a proud and “thinking” breed.

Aviary and booth

Keeping a Central Asian Shepherd is quite labor-intensive work. The best option is a spacious enclosure with a comfortable booth. The enclosure should be 10–15 meters away from human habitation. It is advisable to compact the place for it and clear it of foreign objects, as well as create a slight slope for drainage. The enclosure should be located in a dry and sunny area.

The size of the booth is at least 100×90×80 cm, the size of the opening is 40×50 cm. It is better to make the booth from wood, with a flat sloping roof (slope back), insulate it and install it in a place protected from wind and direct sunlight. To prevent water from entering the dog’s home, the booth is installed on small blocks. Opposite the booth, you need a wooden shield measuring 100x170 cm and a dug-in post with a ring to which you can temporarily tie the dog if necessary.

Walk

Walking starts at 3 months. It is important to train your dog to walk on a leash and muzzle. You need to take walks away from people and other animals. One walk lasts about an hour, at least there should be 2 per day. Puppies are walked more often - 3 - 4 times a day. For harmonious development, representatives of the breed need to walk several kilometers a day.

You can let your pet off the leash only in specially designated areas - areas surrounded by a high fence or metal mesh.

Hygiene procedures

It is important to keep the area where the dog is kept clean: regularly remove garbage, shake out, vacuum, wash and periodically completely change the bedding, wash the kennel inside and out once a month. Twice a year, the territory is completely disinfected using special means.

It is also necessary to clean the dog regularly - usually hygiene procedures are carried out once a day, before a morning walk. First, you should examine the animal's mouth, ears, nose, eyes, paws and fur. If everything is in order, then all that remains is to comb the dog with a fine-toothed comb.

The ears are wiped with a damp cloth every 10-15 days. If the ears are very dirty, you can use a cotton swab soaked in a 3% solution of hydrogen peroxide. If ticks are found on the ears, they should be carefully removed immediately. If you have dark brown, black, or foul-smelling ear discharge, contact your veterinarian immediately.

If wounds or scratches are found on the paw pads, they are also treated with peroxide. If the paws are dirty with fuel oil, paint or other similar substances, they must be washed with a swab dipped in a solvent and then wiped with vegetable oil. It is important to ensure that no foreign body gets into the pads.

The claws can be trimmed with a special nail clipper if they are too long, but try not to damage the vessel passing through the claw. After the procedure, it is better to grind off the sharp edges of the claw with a file. Allowing your dog to walk around with long nails can cause deformed paws.

Wipe the contaminated skin of the nose with a soft cloth soaked in warm water. The nose of a healthy dog ​​should be free of discharge, moist and cold (a warm nose can be after sleep).

Discharge that may appear in the corners of the eyes of a healthy dog ​​should be removed using a gauze cloth soaked in a decoction of chamomile. It is not recommended to use a solution of boric acid or strong tea for this purpose.

The shepherd dog needs to brush its teeth twice a month. A regular toothbrush or cotton swab is suitable for the procedure. Instead of toothpaste, you can use baking soda or school chalk diluted with a small amount of citric acid. If any small objects (bone fragments, wooden sticks) get stuck between the shepherd’s teeth, they must be removed immediately and carefully.

Feeding

The question of what to feed the Alabai is very important. Products that should be included in a dog's diet:

• Raw meat - beef, veal (steam or boil for up to 3 months).
• Chicken, turkey - infrequently and without entrails and bones.
• By-products - beef kidneys, tripe, kaltyks, trimmings, beef tails, veins, liver (it must be boiled), tripe, heart (no more than 20 - 25% of the meat diet).
• Low-fat sea fish.
• Porridge – buckwheat, rice, oatmeal.
• Eggs.
• Dairy products - cottage cheese, cheese, fermented baked milk, kefir (preferably goat milk).
• Vegetables, fruits and greens - cabbage, carrots, pumpkin, apples, zucchini, tomatoes, lettuce, cucumbers, garlic.
• Berries and nuts.
• Bones from ox veins.

Prohibited products:

• Any food from the human table.
• Pork.
• Broths.
• Sweets, baked goods, white bread.
• Any bones.
• Millet, pearl barley, semolina, oats, barley.
• Potato.
• Beet.
• Citrus and exotic fruits.
• Sorrel.
• Legumes.
• Any seasonings and aromatic additives.
• Salted, smoked, pickled, canned, etc.
• Tubular, especially boiled, bones.

Important feeding rules:

• Give all foods raw (except porridge).
• Constant access to clean water.
• Food at room temperature.
• Follow the regime - an adult is fed twice a day, 15 minutes after a walk. The puppy is fed up to 3 months - no more than 6 times a day, after 3 months - 5 times, after four months - 4 times, from six months to a year - no more than 3 times a day.
• Food not eaten within 10-15 minutes should be removed and the dog should not be fed until the next meal.

Diseases of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog

The Alabai breed is very hardy and not susceptible to many diseases. Due to the physical characteristics of the dog, the most common diseases are:

• Obesity is characteristic of 33% of dogs kept in apartments. An unbalanced diet, lack of physical activity, sitting on a chain, and short walks also contribute to weight gain. The consequence of obesity is usually a heart attack, which often leads to the death of the animal.
• Cardiovascular diseases – occur due to the dog’s sedentary lifestyle (arrhythmia, myocardial infarction).
• Diseases of the joints of the limbs - associated with the large weight of the breed, which puts a lot of stress on the paws (dysplasia of the elbow and hip joints, rickets, arthritis, tendonitis, arthrosis, myositis, etc.).
• Skin diseases - mainly ticks and fleas, less often fungus, ringworm, demodicosis.
• Genetic diseases - cryptorchidism in males (failure of the testicle to descend into the scrotum), infertility in females, albinism, diabetes mellitus, eyelid fusion).
• Parvovirus enteritis is a severe viral disease, very contagious, characterized by dehydration and leukopenia, and in 6–10% of cases leads to the death of the animal.

Education and training

The main thing in training a Central Asian Shepherd is the psychological moment of establishing contact with the dog. It is important to constantly maintain a leadership position. Despite its independent and proud character, the breed has a pronounced subordination and trust to the leader of the pack. Alabai is a dog-soldier waiting for orders from the commander. But abusing the dog’s trust and violating his dignity is dangerous. This is fraught with loss of contact with the pet and subsequent disobedience, and sometimes even attempts on the part of the dog to occupy the highest level in the hierarchy of the pack.

First, from 3 to 5 months, the puppy is taught basic skills: name, commands “sit”, “lie down”, “place”, “come to me”, “no”, etc. Alabai is more problematic to train than many service breeds, for example, a German shepherd, but remembers the lessons learned all his life.

If you want to raise a really good dog, then you need to seek help from a qualified trainer. At a minimum, puppy training can be done under the guidance of an experienced instructor. This is especially true if you have no previous experience of keeping such a breed. If, out of ignorance, you make any mistakes in upbringing, it will be impossible to correct them in the future. Improper upbringing is a guaranteed lot of troubles in the future: the dog will ignore your commands and may attack people, including family members. Alabai is too dangerous a breed to let the educational process take its course.

Choosing a puppy

Having decided on the gender of the puppy, it is recommended to consult with a specialist immediately before purchasing or even take it with you to the breeder. Additionally, it is recommended to read the breed standard and look at several litters before making a final decision. It is recommended to go to the nearest dog show. When choosing a puppy, pay more attention to the following aspects:

• Breeder's reputation.
• The sanitary condition of the premises for puppies.
• Metrics of the dog and its certificate.
• Veterinary passport with a mark on deworming and vaccination.
• Parents' appearance.
• Visual health and behavior of the baby.

It is advisable to purchase a pet no younger than 7 – 9 weeks old. Moderately curious, active, non-aggressive and non-timid individuals with a correct bite and healthy appetite deserve an excellent rating. You should not choose the largest or smallest baby from those offered.

Breed standard

A country	Middle Asia.
Purpose	Security and guard services.
General form	The dog is above average height, moderately elongated, muscular, harmoniously built.
Temperament	Balanced, calm and phlegmatic.
Head	Large and wide, almost rectangular, with developed cheekbones. The transition from the forehead to the muzzle is weakly expressed.
Muzzle	Volumetric, shorter in length than the forehead. Ears – triangular, medium in size, erect; usually docked Eyes – round, small in size, color – different shades of brown; the look is direct and stern. Nose - large, black; with white and fawn colors, a lightened color of the nose is acceptable. The jaws are powerful, wide, 42 teeth with a scissor or straight bite.
Neck	Muscular, short, located at an angle of about 30 degrees, characteristic dewlap.
Leather	Thick, elastic, can form small folds.
Back	Oblong and wide, with developed muscles.
Breast	Deep and wide.
Small of the back	Slightly convex, short.
Tail	Located high, in the form of a sickle or ring, folded in the last third. It can be docked, but undocked is also acceptable.
Gait	Smooth and soft, well balanced.
Wool	Straight, hard, abundant, with undercoat. Length from 3 to 10 cm. It forms feathers on the ears, tail and hind legs.
Color	Any, with the exception of combinations of brown and blue.
Note	The male must have two developed testes, completely descended into the scrotum.

Historical reference

According to experts, the breed was formed over a period of 3 to 6 thousand years, and development occurred through natural selection. The ancestors of the Alabai are considered to be ancient mastiffs, wolfhounds, and herding dogs of nomadic tribes. The dog's first habitat was Central Asia: Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Kazakhstan, Tibet, Iran, Mongolia, etc. From the beginning of its development, the Asian was used to guard and protect livestock from wolves. It was the harsh conditions of survival and the constant struggle with large predators that formed the dominant traits of the breed: fearlessness, balance, distrust of strangers, excellent guarding and protective qualities.

In Russia, then the USSR, breeding work with the Central Asian Shepherd began in the 30s. last century. In 1989, the breed was recognized by the international canine organization.

This is how breed researcher E. Mychko describes the Alabai: “Fussing around, looking into the eyes, barking impatiently in anticipation of the owner’s approval - no, this is not about her. Central Asia does not stand up - it stands in the way of the enemy, it does not run - it rushes, it does not bite - it strikes. This is a dog from a legend...”

The Central Asian Shepherd dog breed is one of the most ancient dogs serving people. What you need to know when buying an Alabai, like adults, how to care for dogs, what their character is - you will learn about all this from this article. So, what is the Central Asian Shepherd?

Description

Alabai is an ancient breed that has come down to us in its original form. The Central Asian Shepherd has served people for many centuries, but even today it is one of the most popular breeds. Alabai is famous as an excellent companion, an incorruptible and devoted watchman, and a loving family member.

How exactly this breed was formed is not easy to say. Maned dogs, the images of which are close in type to modern Central Asian shepherd dogs, fought in the arenas of amphitheaters. Alexander the Great himself used these dogs in battles, using them to inflict serious damage on the enemy. At the same time, massive dogs were known in Tibet, descendants of the black Tibetan wolf, extremely strong, with a large head and short muzzle, raw lips and coarse thick hair. The descendant of these dogs was the Central Asian Shepherd Dog. The photos show that she has not lost the strength of her ancestors.

History of the breed

Let's talk about the development of the modern Central Asian Shepherd as a breed. At all-Union shows of service dog breeding, Central Asian Shepherd Dogs were described back in 1939 by A.P. Mazover. These same dogs were referred to as Turkmen Shepherds. due to the fact that the animals were brought from Turkmenistan. Since 1938, all representatives of the breed received the official name - Central Asian Shepherd Dogs.

But such a solution raises some difficulties. Firstly, it is not recognized by local residents. Secondly, when entering the international arena, such a name is not entirely successful, since the concept does not exist abroad. And the word “shepherd” is not applicable to these dogs. This concept comes from the words “sheepfold”, “sheep” and refers to dogs that herd sheep. However, these dogs do not belong to the group of shepherds, since their function is to protect the herd. The Turkmen themselves call them Alabays.

And in 1927, Professor S.N. Bogolyubsky, when describing the dogs of Turkmenistan, located in the territory from the Caspian Sea to the Amu Darya River, called them wolfhounds.

In 1990, the standard of the Turkmen alabai, a descendant of the ancient mastiffs, was approved in the Turkmen SSR. The appearance of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog has many similarities with the Tibetan Great Dane.

It’s not for nothing that Alabai is called one of the oldest breeds. During excavations of the Altyn-Depe settlement in Southern Turkmenistan (2300-1900 BC), the bones of large dogs with a powerful jaw and shortened muzzle and a terracotta figurine depicting a dog very similar to the Alabai were found. It is interesting that already in these ancient times the tails and ears of dogs were docked.

N.M. Ermolova, paleontologist, specialist in the fauna of Altyn-Depe and breeder of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog, believes that even in those days the Alabai protected the herds belonging to local residents from predators.

Appearance

Alabai is a powerful, beautiful dog that attracts attention. The height of the Central Asian Shepherd should be from 65 to 78 cm for a male and from 60 to 69 cm for a female. Representatives of the breed must be not only tall, but also powerful. The weight of the Central Asian Shepherd is in the following range: male - from 55 to 79 kg, female - from 40 to 65 kg.

Alabai can be white, black, black and tan, gray, brown, red, fawn, brindle, piebald, speckled, tricolor. But chocolate, blue and liver are unacceptable. The wool is hard and rough. The undercoat is thick.

Powerful body, short neck. Wide and deep chest. The head is large, massive, but proportional to the overall build. The forehead is flat, slightly rounded. The muzzle is shortened and blunt. The nose is black. Light is allowed with white and fawn color. The paws are large, the tail is thick and set high. Usually tails are docked, but undocked tails are also acceptable. The ears are small, hanging, low set. Most often they are docked.

Intelligence

How smart is the Central Asian Shepherd? The level of intellectual development of these dogs is comparable to that of a two to three year old child. But there is a feature in their character that can create the wrong impression about their mental abilities - Alabai are slow and think for quite a long time.

Despite the first impression, Central Asian Shepherds are not stupid at all. Alabais are superior to many of their closest relatives, particularly in intellectual terms. They are guided more by reason than instincts. But this same feature can cause some problems with obedience and submission - the dog is not only prone to making independent decisions, it also thinks about the owner’s commands and may refuse to fulfill stupid and empty demands.

Character

What is the Central Asian Shepherd like? The characteristics of the breed say that it has a calm and balanced character, is not vindictive and reluctant to show aggression, preferring to express its dissatisfaction with a menacing look and a warning bark.

Is the Central Asian Shepherd aggressive? The characteristics of the breed indicate that the “Asian” in general can be called a peace-loving dog; normally, it does not show aggression just like that, and if the boundaries of the territory are violated, someone claims its place in the hierarchy, family members are in danger. Another reason for aggression can be pain - Alabai do not tolerate it well.

The transformation from a phlegmatic calm animal into an angry bear occurs instantly. "Asians" can be assertive and dangerous opponents. Such a sudden change often takes the enemy by surprise.

Alabai has a strong protective instinct, is fearless, and confident in his abilities.

Does it matter what gender the Central Asian Shepherd is? The characteristics of the breed indicate that sexual dimorphism is expressed in Alabais not only in appearance. Bitches are usually active and sociable, but males are calm and even phlegmatic.

Socialization

How sociable is the Central Asian Shepherd? Reviews indicate that Alabai are friendly towards family members and other pets. They get along well with children, but you should immediately explain to the child that if he hurts the dog, the friendship will quickly end. Still, the Alabai is quite playful and can become a good companion and protector for a baby.

As for strangers and animals, Alabai are indifferent to them, but only as long as they do not contact and do not violate territorial boundaries. Alabai immediately becomes wary and can show aggression towards a stranger. They can't stand drunk people and can be aggressive towards other people's dogs.

The social intra-tribal instinct of Central Asian Shepherd Dogs is very developed. They quickly form a pack, take their places on the hierarchical ladder and rarely fight for leadership. Training and socialization should begin at an early age.

Care

What are the features of caring for a Central Asian Shepherd? The room where the dog lives must be kept clean. The floor needs to be wiped daily, the lounger needs to be vacuumed and washed weekly. You should not allow your dog to sleep on upholstered furniture and mattresses. As a bedding, you need to use a rug, under which you can place a soft bedding, but not a thick mattress.

The place where the dog sleeps should be located away from windows and radiators to avoid drafts, hypothermia, and overheating. It is best to choose a quiet area, not near doors or passages, where the dog can rest peacefully.

An important aspect of caring for a dog is taking care of its coat. You need to clean it daily using a special mitten or a brush with coarse bristles.

In addition, it is necessary to inspect and clean the animal’s mouth, ears and eyes daily using cotton swabs. Cotton swabs are not used for grooming dogs - they can easily cause injury, which will ultimately lead to deafness.

But you don’t need to wash the animal often. The procedure is carried out as needed, preferably no more than once a month, using high-quality hair care products. After washing, the wool should be dried well to avoid hypothermia, especially in the cold season. You can use a hairdryer.

Nutrition. "Natural"

What feeding requirements does the breed have? The Central Asian Shepherd is a massive animal that expends a lot of energy and needs to be replenished. Alabais are good at digesting foods that are not suitable for other breeds, so feeding the Central Asian Shepherd has its own characteristics.

An adult animal needs to be fed twice a day, morning and evening.

With high physical activity, add another meal at lunch. Food should be at room temperature. You need to feed the animal no earlier than 1.5-2 hours before the walk. After eating, the animal should be at rest.

For the proper development of the body, the animal must receive proteins, which cannot be replaced. The daily protein requirement for a dog of this breed is about 100 grams. The most enriched with this component are meat, fish, dairy products, as well as porridges - millet and barley.

The daily fat requirement of an adult animal is about 25 grams. Without them, metabolism and normal digestion are impossible. The dog's body is not able to properly process vegetable fats, so it needs to be given fats of animal origin.

Carbohydrates are an irreplaceable source of energy; the average daily need for them is 350 grams. Potatoes can be a good source. Along with food, various microelements, potassium and calcium salts enter the body. But sodium is added in the form of table salt. 15-20 mg per day is enough.

For the convenience of the owner and to ensure a balanced diet, it is recommended to create a menu for the week. The main food for Alabai is meat products, which are high in calories. Meat from both domestic and wild animals is used, but the product must undergo a veterinary examination, be of good quality, fresh, and without signs of spoilage.

The meat contains a large amount of fats and proteins necessary for the shepherd’s body. For feeding, lean meat is used - beef, lamb, horse meat. Dried meat can be used as a supplement, but replacing fresh meat with it is unacceptable.

At least once a week, Alabai should be given raw meat in small pieces. You can sometimes give your dog corned beef as a treat, but this product needs to be thoroughly washed and boiled.

A lack of trace elements and mineral salts can lead to various kinds of diseases, bone fragility, and nervous system disorders. Therefore, meat and bone meal is also an important component of the diet. It is less digestible than meat. You need to give it 100-200 grams 2-3 times a week, adding it to porridge or soup.

Most of the plant foods in the diet are porridge, especially millet and oatmeal. Shepherds are reluctant to eat barley and pearl barley porridge, so they are mixed with millet and oatmeal. The daily intake of vegetables does not exceed 200-300 grams; you can offer cabbage, carrots, lettuce, beets, potatoes, spinach, and young nettles.

Rendered beef or fish oil is used as a source of fat. Meat in the diet is partially replaced by boneless fish. “Asians” digest milk well. You can give 300 grams of bread daily.

Nutrition. Dry food

Despite the fact that most owners prefer to feed their Central Asian Shepherds natural food, it is possible to switch to special dry food. Such a decision should be thoughtful and balanced, since frequent switches from “drying” to “natural” will negatively affect the health of the animal. The Central Asian Shepherd breed was formed a long time ago and has certain nutritional requirements.

The brands "Akana", "Origen", "Proplan", "Hills", "Bozita", "Ekanuba" have lines for giant-sized dogs. This is the kind of food that will suit Alabai. Compared to natural food, the volume of dry food sufficient to meet the animal’s daily needs is very small. Therefore, you need to switch your dog to “drying” at a young age, at 2-3 months, until the stomach is stretched.

When feeding dry food, it is necessary to provide additional stress on the jaws - give bones, sticks, special treats. The food can be soaked in water. The transition from “drying” to natural food can also be difficult - it will be difficult for the stomach to cope with large pieces of food, vomiting and indigestion may occur.

The amount of food depends largely on the activity of the dog. During physical activity, portions need to be increased. The animal should always have access to clean water.

How to choose a puppy

Alabais, like all large dogs, mature late; the Central Asian Shepherd is mated no earlier than 18 months.

Have you decided to purchase a Central Asian Shepherd puppy? Weigh the pros and cons in advance, because keeping such a serious dog will require large material and time costs. The owner of such a dog must be physically strong and have a strong-willed character. Don't act impulsively, choose wisely. If you like the Central Asian Shepherd, photos of babies might just melt your heart. Don't forget that these cute cubs will grow into a ferocious beast.

Females of the Central Asian Shepherd are active and persistent, they constantly fight for leadership, are pugnacious and more cruel. Males are balanced, calmly accepting their place in the pack.

Many dog ​​experts say that you first need to choose a breeder, and then a dog. Central Asian Shepherd puppies from some couples can have owners already at birth, since people can wait for years for a litter from a certain couple. One more point: there is no need to try to save money, because maintaining an alabai is not a cheap pleasure, especially at first.

So, a few rules to follow when buying alabai:

1. No bird markets. If you want a mentally and physically healthy dog, choose your breeder carefully.
2. Before purchasing, carefully study the photos of puppies of this breed, you should have a good idea of ​​how Central Asian Shepherd puppies look at a young age, how long six, large muzzle, general fatness, etc. If the puppies seem too thin to you, have a muzzle of a different shape and you If anything else is alarming, then refuse to purchase.
3. Be sure to look at your parents, they must be healthy, balanced, adequate.
4. The ideal age to buy a puppy is 2 months.
5. Choose a curious, not fearful baby.
6. If the puppies have long hair, they are most likely a Caucasian Shepherd mix.
7. The puppy should be active, healthy in appearance, with straight paws, clean fur, eyes, ears, and a moist nose.

Feeding

Puppies should not be overfed, even though they appear very large. This not only threatens excess weight and stress on fragile bones, but also leads to stretching of the stomach.

Puppies up to three months of age are fed 5 times a day, up to five months - 4, and 3 times a day until they reach the age of 8 months. If a dog leads a passive lifestyle, then two meals a day are enough for it; for dogs with heavy physical activity, three meals a day.

Feeding is done at the same time in strict portions. Do not leave food in the bowl all the time. The diet consists of meat products, cereals, fresh vegetables and herbs. It is not recommended to give dry food to a puppy. Eating too much liquid food can lead to intestinal volvulus.

New products are introduced gradually, in small portions. If an allergic reaction is detected, the product is excluded. It is recommended to give your puppy a raw chicken egg 2 times a week. It is also useful to give the shells, previously crushed in a coffee grinder.

Several times a week, meat products are replaced with boneless fish. Pig ears, cheeks, hooves, and beef bones are offered as delicacies 2 times a week.

Are Alabai and Asian Shepherd the same thing, or are these dog breeds different in some way? According to the classification of the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI), there is only a breed called the “Central Asia Shepherd Dog”, which has its registration number – 335. Then where did the name “Alabai” come from? What is this – a breed not recognized by the international federation or the second name for the Central Asian Shepherd? To answer this question, let's figure out how an Alabai differs from an Asian.

From the history of the breed

According to historians, the Central Asian Shepherd comes from ancient Egyptian and Assyrian dogs intended for baiting animals. And the formation of the modern breed took place over a vast territory bounded by the Caspian Sea, China, the Southern Urals and Afghanistan. The characteristic features of the representative are high growth (up to 90 centimeters), powerful jaws, a massive head and great physical strength. The Central Asian Shepherd has been known for at least four thousand years, making it one of the oldest dog breeds in the world.

And this is not an unfounded statement. In the cultural layers of the Altyn-Depe settlement in southeastern Turkmenistan dating back to 2000 BC, not only the bones of these dogs were found, but even images and a terracotta figurine! Interesting fact: signs were discovered in Altyn-Depe that resemble the writing of some ancient peoples of Western Asia - the Elamites and Sumerians. So this settlement may have been a kind of “bridge” for the penetration from Assyria (Elam and the Sumerian cities were part of this empire) of the dog, which would later be called the “Central Asian Shepherd Dog,” into the territory of modern Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and other neighboring states.

What are Central Asian Shepherd Dogs used for?

Today, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog, which is more often called Alabai, is used mainly for protection. This strong and fearless animal copes well with the role of a guard; even wolves avoid places protected by Alabai. In Russia, you can often see such a dog not only in rural areas, where its appearance, given its “profession,” would be logical, but also in the city. Many city dwellers keep Alabais in their apartments, although this causes them some inconvenience due to the “increased hairiness” of the animal and the need to feed the voracious giant abundantly.

Well, in conclusion, after we got acquainted with the history and specialization of the shepherd dog, let's decide: are Asian and Alabai the same thing or not? The answer to the question is clear: yes! The Central Asian Shepherd, like every dog ​​breed, has a number of regional variants that are not independent breeds, and the Turkmen Alabai is considered its classic, standard variety. Alabai is a Turkic word, and in its composition one can clearly distinguish “ala”, which means “motley” - this is due to the color of the animal. In Turkmenistan and other regions of Central Asia and Kazakhstan, where pasture livestock farming is preserved, alabai, like thousands of years ago, continue to fulfill their direct duties - that is, protecting herds from predators and thieves.

Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd) is a large, proportionally built dog with voluminous muscles. According to the international classification, the breed belongs to the Molosser type. The ancestors of the Alabai took part in gladiator fights and protected the lands from wolves. Dogs have a balanced and calm character, which makes them wonderful friends and protectors for the whole family.

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Description and characteristics of the breed

Alabais are one of the largest dog breeds. Due to their gigantic size, energy and need for exercise, keeping these dogs in an apartment is problematic.

The Central Asian Shepherd has very strong instincts, so the animal should not be allowed to dominate. These pets have an independent character and will not follow most standard commands.

Freedom-loving, extremely strong and fearless animals will stand up for human protection without hesitation. One can only be surprised at the recklessness of such dogs - neither armed men nor hungry wolves will scare them.

Alabai will fight to the last, and it will not be easy to defeat him. Dogs of this breed have very thick skin and dense hair, which is difficult to grasp. Central Asian Shepherd Dogs have long been valued for their power, courage and determination, and good puppies cost the same as thoroughbred horses.

This breed has many other names such as:

• Asian;
• alapar;
• tobet;
• Turkmen wolfhound;
• sagas of dahmard.

Story

Researchers believe that the breed originated more than 5 thousand years ago. Alabais are the result of mixing herding dogs belonging to the nomads of Central Asia with Tibetan mastiffs and Mongolian shepherd dogs.

The dogs were formed naturally without the intervention of specialists. In the USSR, work with alabai began in the 30s of the last century. The International Canine Organization recognized the breed in 1989.

The world's largest Alabai, nicknamed Bulldozer, lives in the Stavropol Territory with breeder Alexander Khudyakov. The dog's weight reaches 130 kilograms and its height is 2 meters.

The world's largest Alabai, nicknamed Bulldozer. Filmed by State Television and Radio Broadcasting Company "Stavropol" for the VESTI program.

Breed standard

The following features are considered the Alabai breed standard:

1. The head is large and wide, triangular in shape with developed cheekbones and a weakly defined transition from the forehead to the muzzle.
2. Height above average, well-developed muscles, the weight of an adult Alabai reaches 60–70 kilograms.
3. Temperament is phlegmatic, balanced and calm.
4. The muzzle is voluminous.
5. The ears are triangular in shape, usually cropped, medium in size, not erect.
6. The eyes are round in shape and small in size. Eye color – brown of different shades. A stern look.
7. The nose is black with a large nose. If the coat is white or fawn, the lobe may be a lighter color.
8. The jaws are powerful, wide, 42 teeth with a scissor or straight bite.
9. The neck is short and muscular with dewlap, set at an angle of about 30 degrees.
10. The skin is elastic and thick with possible folds.
11. The back is wide and oblong.
12. The chest is wide and developed.
13. The loin is short, slightly convex.
14. The tail is in the form of a sickle or ring, located high. Usually docked, but undocked is also allowed.
15. The gait is balanced, soft and smooth.
16. The coat is hard, abundant, and has undercoat. The length of the coat is 3 – 10 centimeters. On the hind legs, ears and tail, the fur forms fringes.

Varieties of Alabaev

There are several varieties of alabai, which are distinguished:

• by body type and coat quality;
• by color.

By body type and coat quality

Depending on the structure of the body, the length and quality of the wool, there are several types of Alabai:

1. Mountain. Such dogs are distinguished by a strong physique, which makes this animal stocky and hardy. The angle of the hind limbs of the Central Asian Shepherd Dogs is the same as that of the Tibetan Mastiff. The coat of this type of Alabai is long, thick, and can withstand severe frosts.
2. Steppe. Leaner, lighter and faster. They run well, and their movements are elastic and free. The coat is of medium length, with a thick undercoat and coarse guard hair.
3. Oasis-desert. Smaller in size than other varieties, but faster. They have lightning-fast reactions and learn better. The coat is short and close-lying.

By color

Various colors of the Asian Shepherd are allowed, except black, brown and blue. The ban on blue and saddle-back colors is explained by mixing with Great Danes or German Shepherds. The brown color of the Turkmen Alabai is prohibited for unknown reasons, although this color is quite common in the dog population.

Each color of the Turkmen Alabai has its own internal lines and types.

Alabais come in the following colors:

• white;
• gray;
• black;
• brown;
• red;
• fawn;
• brindle color.

Photo gallery

Photos of Alabai of various colors.

Black alabai White alabai Brown alabai Red alabai Gray alabai Tiger alabai

How long do Central Asian Shepherds live?

The lifespan of this breed at home depends on the following factors:

• proper nutrition;
• good care and living conditions;
• prevention of possible diseases;
• level of physical activity;
• lack of stress;
• good rest.

The average life expectancy of Alabai dogs is 11–15 years.

Character and behavior of dogs

Alabais exhibit the following character traits:

1. Aggressive attitude towards other dogs. Despite this distinctive feature, the animal coexists peacefully with pets who have lived with it in the same house since birth.
2. They attack strangers only if there is an objective threat.
3. The main character traits of Alabais are the absence of unnecessary aggression and confidence in their strength, which they show with their calm appearance.
4. Alabais are independent, independent, proud, but at the same time they are absolutely not fussy or hyperactive.
5. The reaction to various stimuli is long-lasting: they can only be distracted by eliminating the cause or switching to a stronger stimulus.
6. Alabais have highly developed social instincts: they quickly find their place in the house in the hierarchical ladder and easily form flocks.
7. As a rule, they choose one master, to whom they obey.
8. They do not tolerate physical punishment and may react to assault in a way that is not the most pleasant for a person.
9. Unpredictable, stubborn and not so easy to train.

Care and maintenance

1. The Alabai's coat is resistant to dirt, so the pet's appearance will remain well-groomed even with irregular cleaning. You need to brush your dog about once every two weeks, preferably outside.
2. Nails should be trimmed twice a month and ears should be inspected and cleaned regularly.
3. It is better to trim the ears of puppies before they are 10 days old, when the nerve endings in the ears are practically inactive. In this case, the sections do not bleed and heal quickly.
4. The best conditions for keeping this breed would be a private home and a spacious enclosure, since the Alabai needs to walk a lot.
5. It is better to have dogs of different sexes. Nature has decreed that females are calmer, so they get along well with males.
6. An Asian needs a permanent job. A pet lying idle soon turns into an apathetic animal with a disturbed psyche.

What to feed the Alabai?

Basic rules for eating Alabai:

1. The presence of two bowls - for water and food.
2. Bowls should be placed on a special stand at a height convenient for the dog.
3. Food should be fresh, high quality, and at room temperature.
4. The pet should always be provided with clean water to drink. Ideally, you can put two bowls - one with plain water, the other with salted water.
5. Dogs should be fed at the same time every day. Immediately after eating - should be removed until the next meal.
6. Do not give dogs sweets (especially chocolate) and long bones. Among baked goods, those made from wholemeal flour are useful.
7. Alabai should not be given pork, preferring beef and veal.
8. By-products should not completely replace meat.
9. You can cook soup with the addition of cereal. A dog should not eat more than 2 liters of soup at one meal.
10. It is better to choose buckwheat and oatmeal from cereals.
11. Include sea fish, eggs and dairy products in your diet.
12. When switching your pet to a new food, this should be done gradually - over 6-8 days.

Possible diseases and their treatment

The most common diseases encountered in Alabais are:

1. Joint diseases. Alabais are, but as representatives of large breeds, they are prone to dysplasia of the elbow and hip joints. For prevention, you should feed your dog properly, and never overfeed your pet.
2. Allergic reactions. In addition, Alabai are prone to allergies, so you should constantly examine the dog’s skin and comb out its fur.
3. Obesity and cardiovascular diseases (heart attack, arrhythmia). A sedentary lifestyle for a dog kept in an apartment can lead to a heart attack or arrhythmia. For prevention, you should walk your pet more often, take it out to the countryside or to dog parks, where the dog can run around to its heart’s content.
4. Genetic diseases: fusion of eyelids, cryptorchidism in males or infertility in females, as well as diabetes mellitus or albinism.
5. Parovirus enteritis is a severe viral disease that leads to the death of a dog in 6–8% of cases.
6. Skin diseases. The most common infections are demadecosis, ringworm and fungus.
7. Piroplasmosis is a disease caused by the mite Babesia. At the first signs (lethargy, dark urine, refusal to eat), you should immediately contact a veterinary clinic. The poison released by the insect into the dog's blood can kill it in a few hours.

Training and education

Alabae puppies look like fluffy bears, but have a very complex character. Raising a Central Asian Shepherd requires experience, patience and proper training from its owner.

When training Alabais, the following recommendations should be followed:

1. Initially, the puppy must be socialized, otherwise the Alabai will grow into a nervous, wild and dangerous dog.
2. Training an Alabai should take at least 20 minutes a day. It is necessary to begin training, in which all family members should take part, from 3 months of age. By 9 months, a young dog should be able to carry out basic commands from its owner.
3. In raising Alabais, it will be more effective to use the method of motivational training or imitation training.
4. When training, you should remember that Alabais are touchy dogs. You should not constantly scold them, otherwise contact with your pet will be lost.
5. The most important thing in raising Alabais is to ensure that commands are followed. It is important to train your pets not to react to stimuli. The best way is to walk in different places.

Choosing a puppy

It is necessary to choose an Alabai puppy based on the purpose for which the dog is purchased.

Where to buy and how much does it cost?

It is better to buy Alabai puppies in nurseries or from reputable breeders. Prices vary depending on the dog’s parents: from 10 to 40 thousand rubles.

Choosing a puppy

After deciding to purchase an Alabai puppy, you should choose the right one and follow a number of recommendations:

1. Do not take a puppy from a litter with more than five babies. In this case, there is a risk of serious diseases in the dog.
2. The puppy's owners must show both parents and provide their documents confirming the purity of the breed.
3. The puppy's mother must not be older than eight years.
4. Check your puppy to ensure it meets the breed's standards.
5. A good sign is the puppy's playfulness and mobility.
6. Don't rush to take the first puppy you come across. Consult your veterinarian.
7. A puppy's bloated belly and ruffled fur may indicate the presence of worms.
8. The ears should be free of discharge, clean, and the nose should be moist.
9. There should be no bald spots or suspicious spots on the coat.
10. The puppy's paws should be strong and powerful. The delivery of the limbs is smooth, straight, without clubfoot or inversion.