Dogs - Alabai

Alabais get called Central Asian Shepherd Dogs, sredniaziatskaya ovcharka, Central Asian Ovcharka or Ovtcharka, Turkmenistan dogs, or Turkmen Alabai, but purists can distinguish between these breeds. They originated in Turkmenistan, where they are national treasures. The Republic of Turkmenistan used to be part of the Soviet Union. Turkmenistan is bordered by Afghanistan, Iran, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and the Caspian Sea. Many countries in the area have mixed in local mastiff-like dogs to produce the breed we know today as alabai: eg  Russia, Siberia, Tibet, Mongolia, and Mesopotamia. 

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The alabai is an ancient breed. These massive dogs - molosser type - were around in the days of the Roman Empire, and Alexander the Great. They are said to have protected the traders on the Silk Route to China. In Russia they are nicknamed, "vokodav" meaning "wolf crusher." They have been used to protect livestock from wolves and other predators. They also fearlessly protected the shepherds and stockmen. The true alabai lives in the fields with the sheep and is unafraid to protect them. They have also guarded and herded cattle.

Alabai puppies quickly grow into big powerful, strong dogs, so they need an owner who will take the time to train the puppy and dominate the growing dog. They need exercise and should be taken for walks every day. In return the dog will be extremely protective of the owner, making a good watch dog that is suspicious of strangers. Alabais will probably win a dog fight, hopefully stopping short of killing the opponent. Alabai puppies need careful socialisation and input from the owner.

Alabais are tough, hardy dogs that are easy to keep.

Weight: 90 kg / 200 lbs

Height at shoulder: over 80 cm / 31 in.