Central Asian Shepherd Dog - Alabai: characteristics of the breed, reviews and detailed description. How long do Alabai live?

Which breed of dog lives the longest? You will find answers to this and other questions in this article.

For many people pet is an equal member of the family, a loyal friend and a personal psychotherapist. But animals are not given a human life, and I really want them to live longer and please their owners with a perky wagging of their tail and a loving look. So it's no surprise that many people wonder: How long do dogs live?

  • It is difficult to answer this question right away, since it all depends on the conditions of detention, on what you feed the dog, and how you treat it.
  • Also, the lifespan of a dog depends on the breed, heredity, and the prevention of infectious diseases (vaccination).
  • In this article we will look at how long representatives of this or that breed live, which dogs live longer and what is the world record for the life expectancy of an ordinary mongrel. Read interesting information below.

I really want it to four-legged friend was there for as long as possible. But this is impossible, since dogs have their own life span. How many years do mongrels and chained mongrels live on average?

  • Domestic dogs without breed or mongrels can live 9 to 12 years. Some of them, with good care and nutrition, live up to 20 years.
  • Life expectancy of yard dogs not much different from the lifespan of pets - 8-11 years. The main thing is that the animal eats normally and does not become infected with any disease.
  • Mongrel on a chain will live less, since she moves little, and, as a rule, she is fed to her full capacity. The dog must move, run. If she is on a leash all the time, then her life will be short-lived.

In yard mongrels, even those that run a lot, the eyelids can also be short. Their life expectancy is affected by winter cold, poor nutrition, and the presence of diseases from which they can quickly die.

Interesting to know: How smaller dog in size, the longer its lifespan.

Read more about each breed below.



Chinese Cresteds - beautiful dogs medium size. This is a very loyal and friendly breed. How old do Chinese Cresteds live on average? Dogs of this breed live on average from 12 to 13 years. But, if you take care of your pet: feed it properly, take it for walks, then it will live 15 years or more.

Important to know: This dog breed requires skin care due to the fact that it has little hair. Therefore, in winter the dog needs to be dressed, and in summer the skin must be lubricated with special creams. This will help prevent acne and flaking.



Despite the fact that the Chihuahua dog has a fragile body, it is very hardy. Depending on the size of dogs of this breed, life expectancy may vary. How old do Chihuahuas live on average?

  • Standard size dogs range from 1.5 to 3 kg. Such representatives of the Chihuahua breed live on average 10-16 years. But with good care and excellent heredity, your pet can live much longer - up to 20 years.
  • Mini Chihuahua weighing from 500 grams to 1.5 kg. There is an opinion that such dogs do not live long - no more than 8 years. But this only applies to those animals that weigh less than 1 kg. This is because such small dogs often have congenital diseases, and they are also at additional risk of injury during walks or due to careless actions of the owners.

You can extend the life of a Chihuahua if you follow a few rules:

Important: The lifespan of dogs of this breed is affected by castration. A sterilized animal will live longer. This is due to the fact that a castrated animal does not accumulate hormones that can contribute to the growth of various tumors.

In addition, the level of aggression decreases, the animal becomes balanced, which means it will live longer.



Another representative of the small dog breed. Their height does not exceed 30 cm, and their weight does not exceed 3 kg. These dogs also seem fragile, but they have a much better lifespan than the Chihuahua. How many years do toy terriers live on average?

  • Dogs of this breed live on average from 12 to 16 years.
  • The number of deaths at an early age in these dogs occurs due to inexperience and irresponsibility of the owners.
  • If the dog is properly cared for, good food, she will lead active image life and walk regularly, then her life expectancy can increase to 22 years.

The longevity of this breed is usually explained by good immunity and the ability to quickly recover from illness.



Yorkshire Terrier- another representative of the small-sized dog breed. This decorative lap dog is a real flower dog world. She needs to be protected, protected, cared for and cherished. Yorkies are very kind, love children and will never hurt them. How old do Yorkshire terriers live on average?

  • On average, dogs of this breed live 13-15 years.
  • But, if the owner monitors the quality of his pet’s diet, then in reality he will live longer.
  • A characteristic disease of this breed is caries. This disease in itself is not dangerous, but due to tooth pain, the dog may refuse to eat and then be sick for a long time.

Take your pet to the doctor at the veterinary clinic in a timely manner. This will help avoid unwanted consequences if your dog gets sick.



This breed is more than 5000 years old. It was originally intended to protect caravans and homes. She has thick fur that protects from the cold, thick and strong skin that protects from insect bites and impressive size, thanks to which everyone will be afraid of her and no one will think of getting inside the living space. How many years do Alabai live on average?

  • On average, representatives of this breed live 11-15 years.
  • Alabai breeders warn that you need to walk this dog all day long, and if you are not ready to do this, then it is better to abandon this breed.
  • If a dog does not run a lot, its character may deteriorate and it will begin to age quickly.

But, if you take the time to walk your pet a lot, he can live up to 20 years and will always be in a positive mood.

Video: Central Asian Shepherd Dog or Turkmen Alabai



An agile, active dog with short legs will turn the life of its owner into an event full of adventure. This dog does not sit still and will be the favorite of all family members. On the street, he will demand active games from the owner, but will not tolerate training, since he does not like it. Any dog ​​needs good care, but this terrier is especially important. These dogs are generally in excellent health, but some individuals may suffer from hereditary diseases.

How many years do Jack Russell Terrier dogs live on average? Thanks to good health, care, daily active walks and proper nutrition, a dog of this breed can live more than 15 years. Genetic diseases cannot be cured, so it is important to know the breeder personally to be confident in his puppies.



The expressive appearance of griffons suggests that they are decorative dogs. These gentle pocket animals were bred to hunt rodents, but they took root well in people's homes and became their friends. How many years do Belgian Griffon dogs live on average?

  • The Brussels Griffon lives from 10 to 15 years.
  • Health problems are usually associated with reproductive function. Female dogs cannot give birth, and if they become pregnant, complications during childbirth are possible. They often undergo caesarean sections.
  • Small puppies are born weak, and many of them die in infancy.
  • Hereditary diseases do not bring great harm health (cataracts, glaucoma), but prevent the dog from living a full life. She can become aggressive and will bark loudly at any sound.

Important: If you are going to get yourself a puppy of this breed, then remember that this dog does not tolerate heat well. Short hair does not protect against the cold either. Therefore, the Brussels Griffon will have to be protected so that it lives longer.



Pekingese is one of the most ancient breeds on our planet. Owners must monitor not only the dog’s proper nutrition, but also its coat: wash and comb. It is the fur that causes discomfort to such a dog, since it is long. On a summer day it can be hot and the animal can become overheated and tired, which will lead to dehydration and the dog will die. But, if you monitor your health, how many years do Pekingese live on average?

  • If the dog is not sick and has quality care And proper nutrition, then she will be with you for 16-18 years.
  • This breed also had long-livers, living up to 22 years.
  • Genetics also plays a big role in life expectancy.

To extend the life of their Pekingese, owners must monitor the health of this pet: visit the veterinarian, get tests and vaccinations.

Advice: When purchasing a puppy, ask the breeder when the last vaccination was given so you know when to get the next one.



The German Shepherd is a special dog that requires not only careful handling and proper care, but also a good psychological climate in the house where it lives. If a dog lives in stress, does not fully rest and suffers from physical inactivity, then its age will be no more than 5-6 years.

How many years do shepherd dogs live on average if they are properly cared for? A dog of this breed, if treated well, proper diet and daytime exercise will delight you with its presence for 10-13 years.



The Pomeranian Spitz is a beautiful fluffy baby - a real bundle of joy for its owners. The main condition for the long life of these furry “bears” is a good owner. He should treat his dog with love and spend time playing with it all the time. But proper care and good nutrition are also of great importance.

How many years do Spitz live on average? A dog of this breed will live with you for 12-15 years. But, if you surround him with care and constant attention, then the Spitz will delight you much longer with his cheerful disposition and beautiful appearance.



As mentioned above, the smaller the dog, the longer it lives, and vice versa, the larger the dog, the shorter its life expectancy. How many years do large dogs and small breeds live? Large dogs live from 10 to 13 years, and pets of small breeds live from 12 to 16 and even more.



Some people choose a dog based on its appearance, the length of its fur, or the lack thereof. Others pay attention only to life expectancy, as they want their pet to please them for as long as possible with its cheerful disposition, kindness and love. Which dogs live the longest? Here are 10 long-living dog breeds:

  • Chihuahua - up to 20 years
  • toy terrier - up to 22 years old
  • alabai - 15-20 years
  • Pekingese - up to 20 years
  • toy poodle - up to 20 years
  • dachshund - 18-20 years old
  • Shin Tzu - 20 years old
  • Lhasa Apso – 18 years old
  • New Guinea singing dog - up to 20 years
  • beagle - from 16 to 18 years old

These dogs are very beautiful, friendly and cheerful. Thanks to their mobility, they live a long time and delight their owners.



From the facts described above, it is clear that dogs of many breeds live up to 20-22 years. But how long can dogs live at most? History knows the fact about a dog that ran with shepherds in Australia. This dog even got into the Guinness Book of Records, as he was able to live to 29 and a half years. Scientists explain this by several factors: fresh air Australian meadows and good physical exercise of the dog, which ran after the shepherds on the green grass every day.

Video: How long do dogs live | At home | On average.

Alabai or Central Asian Shepherd Dog (also Turkmen Alabai and SAO, English Central Asian Shepherd Dog) is an ancient aboriginal breed of dog native to Central Asia. Local residents used Alabais to guard and protect property and livestock.

In their homeland, this is one of the most popular breeds; they are common in Russia, but are rare abroad. This popularity is deserved, because it is one of the largest, strongest dogs capable of surviving in the difficult climate of Asia.

Nothing can be said for sure about the origin and development of this breed. They were kept by steppe nomads, among whom there were few literate people, and writing was not held in high esteem. Add to this the scattered nature and constant movement, which does not add clarity.

One thing, one can say for sure, is that Alabai come from Central Asia, regions now located on the territory of Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and Tajikistan. They have been used to protect property and livestock since time immemorial, but it is impossible to say exactly which country was their homeland. The very first written sources mention these dogs, but they existed before them.

According to various estimates, the breed is 4000, 7000 and even 14000 years old.

There are two groups of theorists, some believe that these dogs originated from ancient Asian herding dogs, others that from . The truth lies somewhere in the middle, many breeds are in the blood of the Alabais, because they developed naturally at least 4000 years!


It doesn’t matter where or how they came from, because these dogs occupied an important niche in the life of nomadic tribes. They served as the eyes, ears, and swords of their masters, constantly on the lookout for potential threats. Although modern weapons and hunting methods have all but eliminated predators from Central Asia, it was once home to populations of wolves, hyenas, jackals, foxes, lynxes, bears, leopards and the Transcaucasian tiger.

Central Asian Shepherds looked for potential predators, drove them away or entered into battle. Moreover, it was often far from people, the service was continuous, and the herds were huge. Moreover, it was necessary to protect not only from animals; there was never a shortage of bandits, thieves and greedy neighbors in the steppe; wars between tribes lasted for hundreds of years.

Alabais took part in skirmishes, defending their own and fiercely attacking strangers. Add to all this the not-so-pleasant climate of the steppe. Central Asia has an arid climate, steppes and snowy mountains. The temperature there during the day can be above 30 C, and at night drop below 0 C. All this served as a natural selection for the Alabais; only the strongest, smartest, and most adapted dogs survived.


Finally, alabai played an important social function when tribes and clans gathered to communicate. Usually this was during holidays or peace treaties. Each tribe brought with them their dogs, especially males, for dog fighting.

The essence of these fights was different from what happens today in illegal fighting pits, where different dogs. What was important was not the death of the animal, but the determination of who was superior to whom. A typical fight consisted of displays of rage and posturing, and there was rarely blood. Even when the strength and ferocity of the dogs were equal and it came to a fight, one of them gave up and cost with little blood.

These fights were popular entertainment where bets were placed. In addition, for the tribe members, victory was a great achievement and a reason for pride.

But, latently, such meetings were an analogue of current exhibitions, where they determined best representatives breeds that were kept for breeding. After all, in order to protect they needed large, strong dogs. But the most important thing is that the Central Asian Shepherd Dogs had to not retreat in the face of any threat.

The harsh climate and remote location would make Central Asia one of the most isolated places on earth, if not for one thing. Central Asia borders four of the richest, most populous and historically important regions: Europe, the Middle East, China and India.

The famous Silk Road ran through its territory, and for hundreds of years only gold was more valuable than silk. To avoid thieves and for security, merchants bought alabai to guard caravans.

But the wealth of their neighbors fueled the greed of countless nomads, and their hordes constantly attacked their neighbors for the purpose of robbery. Natural horsemen, they learned to sit in the saddle before walking, instantly swooped in and retreated with prey. Hundreds, if not thousands of nomadic tribes have sunk into oblivion, leaving behind only names: Magyars, Bulgars, Pechenegs, Cumans, Mongols, Turks, Turkmens, Scythians, Sarmatians, Alans.

And although the horse was considered the most valuable thing for a nomad, it was the dogs that brought fear to the enemies. They say that even Molossians ( attack dogs Greeks and Romans), were inferior to them in battle. And, most likely, most of these fighting dogs were SAO or similar breeds. Most historians are confident that Europeans and Middle Easterners were so impressed by them that they took them for themselves.

Central Asian Shepherd formed on the territory of Central Asia over thousands of years. The advent of Islam has had a bad impact on dogs as they are considered a dirty animal. But not in Central Asia, where alabai played too big a role to be abandoned. It continues to live unchanged almost until the 1400th century.

By that time, the Russians will learn from their experience Western Europe, including firearms. No matter how fierce the Alabai were, they could not do anything against the guns. Ivan the Terrible in 1462 begins to push the boundaries, crushing the nomads. The lands are populated by settlers who are also impressed by the dogs. They call them shepherd dogs or wolfhounds.

But the First World War and the communist revolution had little impact on the region. The communists who have come to power are ready for war and are looking for a breed capable of guarding, patrolling borders, and guard duty. Someone's gaze turns towards the Central Asian Shepherd Dogs, the number of exported dogs is growing dramatically. Since the authorities take away best dogs, the quality of the population begins to suffer.

At the same time, new breeds are arriving from all over the Soviet Union. These breeds are intensively crossed with Alabais to improve their characteristics. However, the breed is considered unpromising for military purposes, since Alabai are difficult to train. They are being removed from the army, but the popularity of the breed in the countries of the USSR has already grown, more and more people want to get a wolfhound for themselves.

At the time when the USSR government became interested in Central Asian Shepherds, it was not a single breed. These were similar local variations, many of which had their own unique names. All of them crossed both with each other and with other breeds. As a result of this, modern Alabai can be quite different from each other, more than other purebred breeds. Many breeders in Central Asia and Russia still keep the old variations, but more and more crossbreeds are appearing.

In July 1990, the State Agricultural Industry of the Turkmen SSR approved the standard for the “Turkmen Wolfhound” breed, but this is already the decline of the great country. With the fall of the USSR, they began to gain popularity in Europe. More and more Americans and Europeans are learning about the breed and starting to breed it. Most of them are interested in a massive dog for guard duty or participation in illegal dog fights, but there are also those who need guards for their herds. Alabaev is beginning to be recognized in many cynological organizations. The first is the Federation Cynologique Internationale (FCI).

Description

It is quite difficult to unambiguously describe the appearance of alabai, due to the fact that they are very different from each other. There are literally dozens of variations of Central Asian Shepherds, most of which interbreed. In addition, they interbreed with other breeds. They are similar to other large guard dogs, but are lighter built and more athletic.

There is one common feature for all Alabais - they are massive. Although this is not the largest breed in the world, it is a very large dog.

Males at the withers are at least 70 cm, females at least 65 cm. In practice, most dogs are significantly higher than the minimum figures, especially those living in Asia. The weight of males ranges from 55 to 80 kg, females from 40 to 65 kg, although among males one can often find Alabais weighing up to 90 kg. The largest Alabai, nicknamed Bulldozer, weighed up to 125 kg, and standing on its hind legs reached two meters. However, at the moment he is already dead.

Their sexual dimorphism is more pronounced than in other breeds; males and females differ significantly from each other in size and appearance.

The Central Asian Shepherd should be muscular and powerful, its appearance indicates that it is ready to face any opponent. However, it should not look squat and stocky.


The Alabai's tail is traditionally docked to a short stub, but this practice is now falling out of fashion and is prohibited in Europe. The natural tail is long, thick at the base and tapering at the end.
Late development is also characteristic; dogs develop fully physically and intellectually by the age of 3 years.

The head and muzzle are large, massive and impressive, but not as disproportionately huge as those of most mastiffs. The top of the skull and forehead are flat, the head blends smoothly into the muzzle, although the stop is pronounced. The muzzle is usually slightly shorter than the skull, but very wide. Scissor bite, large teeth. The nose is large, wide, usually black, although shades of brown are acceptable. The eyes are large, deep-set, oval in shape and dark in color. The general impression of most Alabais is dominance, strength and determination.

The Alabai's ears are traditionally docked close to the head, so that they are practically invisible. This is usually done for puppies, but ear cropping goes out of fashion even faster than tail docking. Natural ears small size, triangular in shape, hanging and set low, below the eye line.


The coat is of two varieties: short (3-4 cm) and long (7-8 cm). Both are double coats, with a thick undercoat and a hard outer coat. The hair on the face, forehead and front of the paws is short and smooth. CAOs can be of almost any color, but most often they are pure white, black, red, and fawn.

Character

As with appearance, the Alabai's personality can vary significantly from dog to dog. There are four lines, each of which differs significantly in temperament. Anyone who wants to buy an Alabai should find out who their ancestors were and be thoughtful about choosing a nursery, as some lines can be extremely aggressive.

In general, these dogs are stable in character, but those lines that were bred to participate in dog fighting are often unpredictable. But even carefully selected dogs are very dominant, often aggressive, and given their size and strength... The combination of these factors makes Alabais one of the worst breeds for beginner dog owners. Content requires experience, patience and will.

Turkmen Alabais form close relationships with the owner, to whom they are endlessly attached. Most of them are defined as one person's dog, ignoring or having a negative attitude towards everyone except the owner. This attachment is so strong that most Central Asian Shepherds have difficulty changing owners. Moreover, many are so attached that they ignore other family members, even those with whom they have lived for years and spouses.

This breed is not suitable as a family dog ​​or for families with children. Most Alabais do not know that they are supposed to be gentle with children, and their brute strength can be a problem. Yes, they protect children and do not hurt them, but... this is a large and harsh dog. Even with decorative dogs, children should not be left unattended, let alone such a giant. Although they often get along well with children, they even allow them to ride on them. It all depends on the specific character and upbringing.

This is a guard breed, and most Alabais are suspicious of strangers, to say the least. Training and socialization are necessary from puppyhood, otherwise you will develop serious problems as you grow. Training can reduce the level of aggression, but some representatives of the breed may still experience it towards strangers. The owner needs to understand that even the slightest aggressiveness is serious problem because of the strength of the dogs.

Even the least aggressive Alabai remain highly suspicious and unfriendly towards strangers. They are protective, territorial and always alert, one of the best guard dogs. And her bites are much worse than barking...

They are completely intolerant of anyone who tries to enter their territory unaccompanied, but always try to scare and warn first. Although they do not hesitate to use force.
Central Asian Shepherds are excellent bodyguards who will do anything to protect their owner. In past centuries, they went against tigers and bears, instilled fear in the Roman legionnaires, so that an unarmed person could not stand against them.


And participation in dog fights did not add to their love for other dogs. As you might expect, Central Asian Shepherds are aggressive towards other dogs and aggression comes in many forms: territorial, sexual, dominant, possessive. Socialization and training reduce its level, but it cannot be completely removed.

This is especially true for males, who often cannot tolerate other males. They are best kept alone or in company with a dog of the opposite sex. Owners must remember that CAO is capable of injuring or killing almost any dog ​​without much effort.

These dogs protected livestock, and if the Alabai grows on a farm, it becomes a protector for animals. But in general they are aggressive towards other animals, especially strange ones. Alabai will attack another animal to protect territory and family and will probably kill it, even if it is a wolf.

Raising and training Turkmen Alabais is a very difficult matter. This is not a dog that lives to please its owner; most of them are very stubborn and headstrong. In addition, they are dominant and they try to push the boundaries of what is permitted by a person.

Since the Central Asian Shepherd Dog completely ignores the commands of those whom it considers lower than itself on the social or hierarchical ladder, the owner must always occupy a dominant position. This does not mean that training an Alabai is impossible; it just takes more time, effort and patience. There are no difficulties only with the guard service, which is in their blood.

In the steppe they wander for days on end, often covering more than 20 km per day. As a result, they need serious physical exercise. The absolute minimum is about an hour a day, every day. Representatives of the breed that do not receive enough exercise can develop behavior problems, destructiveness, hyperactivity, bark endlessly, or be aggressive.

They are good jogging or cycling companions, but what they really need is a spacious yard. Due to its requirements and size, Alabai do not get along well in an apartment; they need a yard with large area or an aviary.

Central Asian Shepherds bark to warn their owner about the slightest changes. They are aware of human limitations and bark more often at night in response to unusual smells, sounds or events. If you have close neighbors, this will lead to complaints about excessive noise. The intensity can be reduced through training, but it cannot be completely eliminated.

Care

What kind of care might be required for a dog living in the steppe and called the Turkmen wolfhound? Minimum. They don't need any professional groomer, just regular brushing. It is very, very advisable to accustom your puppy to grooming as early as possible. Otherwise, you risk getting a dog that weighs 80 kg and doesn’t like being handled. Alabais shed quite heavily. Most are moderate throughout the year and intense twice a year, but some are intense all the time. At such moments they leave behind just clumps of fur.

Health

There is no exact data, since no serious studies have been conducted, and there are many different lines. But the owners claim that Alabai is one of the most persistent and healthy breeds, and there is no reason not to believe it. They have an excellent gene pool, one of the best among large breeds. Central Asian Shepherds have excellent heredity. Their ancestors lived in harsh conditions, and only the strongest survived. However, the situation was spoiled by later crossings with other breeds.

Life expectancy is 10-12 years, which is good enough for large dogs.

Nov 23, 2015 admin

The Alabai breed is a typical representative of the Molosser group. Unfavorable environment habitat of their ancestors formed unique qualities in this species and contributed to the development of security skills necessary in our time.

Training
Quick wit
Hair loss
Security Guard
Watchman
Difficult to care for
Friendly with children
Country of origin Central Asia
Lifespan 15 years
Price5-20 t.r.
Male height65–70 cm.
Bitch height60-65 cm.
Male weightfrom 50 kg.
Bitch weightfrom 40 kg.

Brief description

Alabai, or Central Asian Shepherd Dog, belongs to perhaps the most ancient breed of dogs. Historical homeland considered Central Asia. This species is not a genetic experiment, but, according to legend, descends from strong, hardy and treacherous wolfhounds. The modern breed was formed as a result of natural crossing of related species, taking the best from the herding dogs of nomadic tribes, fighting dogs and freedom-loving Tibetan wolves. This mixture and the desire to survive in unfavorable conditions as a result had a huge impact on the character of the Alabai breed.

In the distant past, they protected livestock, caravans and homes from uninvited guests. Nowadays, Central Asian Shepherds are also considered irreplaceable guards. They are of particular interest to owners of country houses and security facilities. Dogs are very picky in their affections and are devoted to humans to the end. They, without hesitation, are able to rush at the enemy if they feel a threat to the owner.

Alabai appearance

Alabais are quite large in size and have a strong build. This species is characterized by a massive head and jaw, giving it a bear-like appearance.

Large round eyes dark in color, set wide apart, drooping triangular ears are usually cropped. It has well-developed, strong paws. Relatively short neck and wide rib cage make an impressive impression.

The average height of a male is 65–70 cm, that of a female is 60–65 cm. The weight of the animal is 40–60 kg. The coat is quite hard and straight, with a thick undercoat. The color of the breed is varied: white, black, gray, red, brown, brindle or fawn. Thick skin serves as reliable armor against any bites.

Character of Alabai

The character of alabai resembles. For for a long time struggle for survival in the distant past, they formed good defensive reflexes and persistent aggression towards their relatives became entrenched. They do not tolerate foreign dogs on their territory and are capable of grabbing a stranger’s throat with a death grip or even tearing the enemy apart. However, they are quite friendly towards the dogs they grew up with. Recognize the hierarchy in the pack. They are independent, smart and very resilient. Despite their fighting skills, they rarely participate in tournaments. They never look away if someone is staring at them. They demand to be treated with respect.

Alabai also have a long-term reaction to external stimuli. As a distraction maneuver, it is recommended to eliminate the interfering factor or switch the dog’s attention to another stimulus. When properly raised, Central Asian Shepherds are very affectionate and caring towards children. They perfectly manage to combine the role of nanny and protector of children. However, they are very wary of strangers, so it is better to isolate your pet when receiving guests. An independent and freedom-loving Alabai is capable of becoming true friend to his master.

Training the Central Asian Shepherd

Representatives of this ancient breed are very difficult to train due to their wayward nature. You should immediately show the Alabai who is boss in the house. This will help establish closer contact with your pet. All family members should take part in raising the puppy and devote at least half an hour a day to this. Training should begin at three months; when closer to a year, an Asian puppy should follow all commands. Training should be motivational in nature, then it will be most effective. An equally important role in education is played by the formation of the animal’s need to communicate with other dogs. The main thing is to control her aggression towards them.

The goal of training is to get the dog to obey and follow standard commands. There is no need to require the puppy to perform the same command several times in a row. This will cause a loss of interest in learning. It is important to remember that this is a very vindictive dog; if you offend it, it will be quite difficult to restore a good relationship.

To teach the Alabai not to react to extraneous stimuli, it is recommended to change the walking route more often. Mandatory physical activity can be given in a playful way.

How to choose a puppy

Regardless of the purpose of purchase, it is recommended to adopt a dog from a breeder’s kennel at the age of two to three months. It is advisable to observe her behavior before purchasing. The puppy should show some curiosity about strangers, but remain wary. It is better to refuse to acquire an overly aggressive individual, but timid behavior is also not welcome. If you plan to participate in exhibitions or breed the breed in the future, the pedigree of the puppies must be impeccable. Alabais undergo strict selection. Dogs with a fighting character and a tough disposition, capable of standing up for themselves, are allowed for breeding. To ensure that the Central Asian Shepherd does not go beyond the established standards, the puppy should not be the smallest or largest in the litter. Should be given special attention appearance – smooth shiny wool animal and its strong physique are an undoubted indicator of its health.

Gender plays an important role in selection. Males strive for independence and love to dominate. Bitches have an easygoing character, but greater mobility. Both of them get along well together.

It is not recommended to keep Alabai in an apartment, primarily due to their large size. For a comfortable existence, they need a spacious enclosure with a booth. Therefore, a country house will be an ideal habitat for the Central Asian Shepherd. The animal tolerates heat and cold well. Maintenance and care are not particularly difficult. Representatives of this species are quite clean themselves; their fur is resistant to contamination. Dogs shed especially heavily in the spring, then the intensity of shedding decreases, which is greatly facilitated by regular brushing. They need timely ear cleaning and nail trimming.

From the very first days, you should decide on the method of feeding and strictly adhere to the rules:

  • Do not mix dry dog ​​food with natural food.
  • Diet from natural products should include mandatory various types porridge, vegetables, sea ​​fish, lean meats or offal.
  • Exclude tubular bones and sweet.
  • Ensure constant access to fresh drinking water.
  • You need to feed him strictly at the same time.
  • Avoid overeating.
  • The diet should contain dairy and fermented milk products.
  • The transition to a new food should be gradual over the course of a week.

Health and illness

All Alabai initially have enviable health. To save it, already with early age preventive measures must be taken.

  • As a representative of one of the largest breeds, long active walks are recommended for the Alabai. Sedentary lifestyle and poor nutrition lead to obesity, which creates additional stress on the joints.
  • Animals are not immune from helminth infection, so it is recommended to use deworming devices twice a year.
  • Dogs' diet should be balanced. You cannot give the animal food from the table or sweets. This can cause pancreatic dysfunction and diabetes.
  • Often there are foods that cause allergic reactions, accompanied skin itching. Regular brushing will allow you to notice the problem in time and begin treatment.
  • Purchasing a special anti-flea collar and constantly monitoring your pet will help cope with fleas and ticks.

The average life expectancy of Central Asian Shepherds is 15 years. Some individuals live up to 20 years.

Photos of Alabai

Alabai is a balanced, fearless, smart dog deserves respect and always reciprocates.

Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd) is a large, proportionally built dog with voluminous muscles. According to international classification The breed belongs to the Molosser type. The ancestors of the Alabai took part in gladiatorial fights and protected the lands from wolves. Dogs have a balanced and calm character, which makes them great 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 dimensions, 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 “Stavropolye” 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 weak 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 – different shades of brown. 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. Coat this type of alabai has a long, thick, capable of withstanding severe frosts.
  2. Steppe. Leaner, lighter and faster. They run well, and their movements are elastic and free. Wool 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 by 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, self-reliant, 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 10 days of age, when 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 private house and the presence of a spacious enclosure, since the Alabai needs a lot of walks.
  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. Asian needs 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 must always be provided for clean water for drinking. 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 cleaned up before next appointment food.
  6. Do not give dogs sweets (especially chocolate) and long bones. From bakery products 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 among Alabais are:

  1. Joint diseases. Alabais are, but as representatives of large breeds, they are prone to elbow dysplasia 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 into the countryside or to dog parks, where the dog can run around to its heart’s content.
  4. Genetic diseases: fusion of the 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 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 insects into a 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 perform basic commands 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 having serious illnesses at 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 fur.
  10. The puppy's paws should be strong and powerful. The delivery of the limbs is smooth, straight, without clubfoot or inversion.

"Hello! We want to buy a puppy who will become a good guard in the future. Having studied a lot of information about large breed dogs, we chose the Central Asian Shepherd Dog. Tell me, please, how long do Alabai live? (Yana)"

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog, or Alabai, is one of the largest dogs in the world, the average weight of which can reach 50 kg. Despite its calm and balanced character, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog is most often purchased to protect homes and industrial enterprises, as well as for guard duty.

The average life expectancy of an alabai is 12–15 years. As noted by breeders involved in breeding large breed dogs, when proper care and well maintained, the dog can live a long and interesting life.

Some novice dog breeders make the mistake of comparing representatives of this breed with a German or East European shepherd. When determining the lifespan, the characteristics of each breed are taken into account. For example, if you ask how many years a Central Asian Shepherd can live maximum, then the history of this breed mentions an age of 16–17 years.

How long an Alabai will live at home depends on the number of various factors. Let's take a closer look at this issue and find out what determines the average life expectancy of four-legged large breeds:

  • Compliance with the regime. As you know, dogs that move a lot, frolic, play outdoor games, live much longer. Do you want your pets to live long? Do not forget about training and training, physical activity and long walks.
  • Diet and weight control. Correct balanced diet, selected taking into account the complexion and characteristics of the Alabai, has a beneficial effect on the health of the animal. Monitor your dog's weight. If the Central Asian Shepherd begins to gain weight, then over the years problems may arise with the paws, which will not be able to withstand too much weight.
  • Stressful situations. Representatives of this breed feel the atmosphere in the house.

Frequent quarrels and scandals negatively affect the dog’s well-being.

  • Accidents. One of the disadvantages of this breed is increased risk getting injured. Monitor your pet and try to minimize cases where the likelihood of injury is very high.
  • Room hygiene. The life expectancy of pets is affected by the cleanliness of the area where they live.
  • Dog personal hygiene. Make sure the animal is clean and well-groomed. Unlike small Chihuahuas, Central Asian Shepherds are undemanding in care. What does caring for a large breed dog include? This includes cleaning teeth and ears, as well as caring for the pet’s coat.
  • Well-being control. For your dog to live long, pay attention to his well-being and appearance, do not neglect scheduled visits to the veterinarian.