The Turkmen wolfhound or the Central Asian shepherd is one of the most amazing dog breeds that exists to this day almost in its original form. Presumably, the Central Asian Shepherd has a pedigree from the Mongolian Shepherd and the Tibetan mastiff, whose ancestors were ancient Egyptian and Assyrian dogs.
The pet was very popular among hunters, traders, pastoralists. He was bred by the inhabitants of Afghanistan, Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan. The large-sized animal, with a calm character, stable psyche, helped drive cattle, guarded the home, saved flocks, humans from the attack of wolves, and other predators.
Features of the Central Asian Shepherd, the nature of the pet
The Central Asian Shepherd Dog as a breed was first registered in 1990 by the State Agro-Industry of the Turkmen Socialist Republic. It was there that the breed standard was first developed and approved. A little later, after 3 years, the pet received international recognition at the FCI International Organization.
On the territory of Russia, Central Asia at present there are several inbreeding types of the Central Asian shepherd:
- Alabai, the largest individuals with a powerful skeleton, characterized by a calm disposition;
- Koplon leopards, lean, muscular, aggressive dogs of medium or large size, whose body is covered with short hair;
- Long-haired pets, living mainly in the mountainous regions of the south of Central Asia, which are more similar to the ancestors who lived in Tibet.
Training of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog begins from the first minutes, as soon as the dog appeared in the house. For an animal to grow up brought up, socialized, it needs a firm hand, experience. Without subordination, the pet will dominate the owner, behave aggressively, be unbridled.
The success of training the Central Asian Shepherd Dog lies in the correct approach to it, the ability to curb the wayward, freedom-loving individual. Often, an experienced dog breeder is entrusted with working with an animal, who can raise a real hunter, watchman, and assistant from the pet. Under clear guidance, the dog will quickly learn commands, learn obedience, and respond adequately to what is happening.
External features of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog
The characteristics of the Central Asian Shepherd Dog will be incomplete, if not to mention its external features. The animal is large enough, the height at the withers is 70-75 cm, weight - from 40 kg to 60 kg. On a large muscular body lies a large head with a massive lower jaw, covered with fleshy lips.
The body of the dog is held by strong stable legs with powerful legs. Her body is covered with straight stiff hair with a thick undercoat, which serves as good protection from the weather, winter cold. The thick skin of the pet allows him to get out with minimal damage from any battle.
Color
This is a natural defense that dogs use at every opportunity. The color of the pet is considered a breed characteristic. It can be black, red, gray; individuals with tiger, brown, and fawn hair are also found.
How to feed a Central Asian shepherd?
How to feed a dog? The basic rules of nutrition - a complete diet, which must necessarily contain natural meat, cereals, fruits, vegetables for the season. When feeding the Central Asian Shepherd, the animal needs 2 bowls: for food and clean water.
Bowls should be placed on a special, height-adjustable platform. She is raised as the puppy grows larger, taller. He should reach for food up, and not constantly lower his head down. It is important to follow the regime when organizing feeding at the same time..
The dog must be accustomed to discipline in all respects, and the sooner the better. Veterinarians categorically forbid pampering an animal with tubular bones, sweets. They can cause digestive problems, diabetes and other ailments.
