Characteristics
large
from 62 to 65 cm at the withers
from 40 to 80 kg
10-12 years
Pinchers and Schnauzers, Molosses, Mountain Dogs and Swiss Cattle Dogs
Brief information
The story of the breed
The name “alabay” presumably comes from the Turkic language and means “spotted, heterogeneous color”. In Uzbekistan, these dogs are called “buribasar”, translated as “wolfhound”.
Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dogs) are considered one of the oldest breeds. Scientists suggest that its age is from 3 to 6 thousand years. The formation of the breed took place on a vast territory from the Caspian Sea to South Asia. The ancestors of the Alabai were shepherd dogs of nomadic tribes, fighting dogs of Mesopotamia. Tibetan mastiffs are also related to them.
During the formation of the breed, no artificial selection was used. For many years, Central Asian Shepherd Dogs have guarded livestock, caravans and dwellings. The nomadic way of life and the struggle with wild animals influenced the appearance and character of the dog, endowing it with strength, power, fearlessness and endurance. Alabaev is still used on high mountain pastures as guard dogs that protect herds from predators. They are also kept in houses, as an indicator of prestige.
Breeders of the USSR began to work with this breed in the 30s of the XX century. Initially, they wanted to make security guards for state facilities out of dogs, but then they abandoned this idea due to difficulties with training. Due to sudden outbreaks of aggression, Alabai entered the list of dangerous breeds in Russia and Ukraine. However, in 2007, the Russian media called this breed one of the most fashionable.
Character
Alabai are powerful guard dogs with a pronounced desire for dominance. Their upbringing must be taken very seriously. It should be borne in mind that simply suppressing a dog (for example, using brute force) can lead to irreversible changes in the animal’s psyche and make it unnecessarily aggressive.
Dialogue and respect for the animal are important in communicating with the Alabai. Dogs of this breed are considered very smart and can vary their behavior, for example, distinguishing between service (protection of the territory, object, owner) and communication with family and children. They understand perfectly well what life in a pack is, and will consider their family to be her, unquestioningly obeying the leader, that is, the owner (if he manages to gain authority).
Description of Alabaev
These are huge proportionally built animals with powerful muscles hidden under thick skin and thick hair. Males grow at the withers to at least 70 cm, and females reach 62-65 cm.
The head is rectangular, the skull is long and flat. Medium length muzzle, hooked nose allowed. Jaws wide, scissor bite. The eyes are widely spaced, the color of the iris is from light to dark shade of brown. Ears are set low, hanging. A dewlap stands out on the neck. The back is straight, wide, muscular. The tail is set high, has a crescent shape before docking and even twists into a ring. The hind legs are strong and with strong bones, the front legs are small and collected. The coat is straight, coarse and thick. Any color is allowed, except for blue, brown and black-and-black (black-red).
Care
This breed of dog has a thick coat that needs to be brushed regularly. Otherwise, it will crumble and settle wherever possible.
In addition, you should not just walk with Alabai, but walk a lot. These strong dogs need serious physical activity, so the owner will not only have to go out with the dog on a leash, but come up with the most difficult routes for many hours (with ascents and descents) that will allow the dog to realize energy.
Conditions for keeping the Central Asian Shepherd Dog
You can keep Alabai both in an apartment and in a country house. However, it is worth considering the size of the animal in a cramped space, it will feel uncomfortable. Of course, a dog of this breed will feel much better in nature: it can be outdoors around the clock, living in a specially equipped kennel.
Predisposition to disease
Alabai can boast of good immunity. But some health problems are caused by genetic problems, and some are the consequences of improper pet management. Most often, these dogs suffer from:
Competent maintenance, regular examinations at the veterinarian and timely prevention of diseases are the key to a long and fulfilling life of the dog.
