Central Asian Ovcharka
The Central Asian Ovcharka, or Central Asian Shepherd Dog, has a life expectancy of 10 to 15 years.
Origin
The Central Asian Ovcharka dates back more than 4,000 years, as evidenced by ancient artifacts. Nomadic tribes used the ancestors of the modern-day Central Asian Ovcharka to protect their livestock from predators like wolves and leopards.
The true origin of the Central Asian Ovcharka is a source of mystery and the breed largely developed as a result of natural selection. No formal standard was developed for the Central Asian Ovcharka until the 1920s.
Size
The Central Asian Ovcharka weighs 80 to 150 pounds and measures 23.6 to 25.6 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Central Asian Ovcharka has a dense coat that can be either short or long. The Central Asian Ovcharka sheds lightly most of the year and more heavily with the change of seasons in the spring and fall. During their heavy shedding seasons, the Central Asian Ovcharka should be brushed several times a week, otherwise once a week is sufficient. The Central Asian Ovcharka should also be bathed occasionally.
Like all dogs, the Central Asian Ovcharka needs basic grooming. Brush their teeth, clean their ears and trim their nails on a regular basis.
Character
The Central Asian Ovcharka is a strong willed, but devoted companion with keen protective instincts.
Temperament
As a natural guardian, the Central Asian Ovcharka is fearless, highly alert and wary of outsiders. The Central Asian Ovcharka takes their job as protector quite seriously, whether that entails watching out for livestock, people or property. The Central Asian Ovcharka is generally even tempered and steady, but will readily respond to a challenge.
As a companion, the Central Asian Ovcharka is deeply loyal and happiest when included in their family’s activities. The Central Asian Ovcharka has lots of love and affection for their family. They can also get along quite well with other dogs and pets they see as part of their “pack.”
Training Needs
The Central Asian Ovcharka is best suited to an experienced dog owner. The Central Asian Ovcharka is independent and not easily trained. This breed was developed to work in partnership with humans, not be subservient to them. Obedience training does not come naturally to Central Asian Ovcharkas.
Central Asian Ovcharkas are slow to respond to commands, preferring to do things in their time, in their own way. They require lots of patience and respond best to firm, but gentle training and lots of positive reinforcement,
As part of their training, Central Asian Ovcharkas also need early socialization. They can be suspicious, and even assertive, with new people and other dogs if not well socialized.
Activity Level
The Central Asian Ovcharka is an energetic puppy, but matures into a calm, laidback adult. The Central Asian Ovcharka does not require a lot of exercise, but does need plenty of room to roam. They are not apartment dogs and thrive in rural environments.
