The Alabai dog is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence. It is a dog native to Central Asia that was originally used to protect livestock and other properties, due to its strong temperament and great courage. Today, it is still used as a guard and defense dog, although it is a rare breed in Western Europe.
Origin of alabai
The Alabai, also known as the Central Asian Shepherd Dog, is one of the oldest dog breeds in existence, as it has about 4.000 years of history. It is a breed that arose by natural selection, from the Tibetan mastiffs and the mongolian shepherd.
Its origins were in the nomadic tribes of Central Asia, where these large, corpulent dogs were used to protect livestock and other property from predators and thieves. Today, is used as a guard dog, with most specimens found in:
- Afghanistan
- Iran
- Kazakhstan
- Kyrgyzstan
- Tajikistan
- Turkmenistan
- Uzbekistan
Alabai dog characteristics
The alabai is a large-breed dog, corpulent, robust and with powerful muscles. Unlike other breeds, the Alabai has a significant sexual dimorphismThe males are bigger, massive and temperamental than the females. Specifically, males usually reach a weight of 50-79 kg and a minimum height of 70 cm, while females weigh between 40-65 kg and measure at least 65 cm.
The International Cinological Federation (FCI) includes the Alabai in group 2, consisting of pinscher and schnauzer-type dogs – molossoids, dogs Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs. Specifically, it is found within section 2.2. of molossian dogs, mountain type.
The most notable characteristics of its racial standard are the following:
- They have a solid head: rectangular in shape, with a moderately defined fronto-nasal depression (stop). The nose (nose) is black, although in white or beige specimens it may be somewhat lighter.
- The eyes convey a confident and dignified expression: they are medium in size. Eye color can range from dark brown to hazel. The rim of the eyelids is usually black.
- The ears are hanging: they are medium in size, triangular in shape, and set low. It is a breed in which ears are traditionally amputated, however, we must point out that this is a strictly prohibited practice in our country, since it threatens animal welfare.
- The neck is strong and muscular: Ends in a deep and broad chest.
- The limbs are strong: they have powerful muscles, especially the thighs.
- The tail is thick at the base and set somewhat high: Naturally, it hangs down to the hock in the shape of a sickle. When the animal is alert, it rises to the level of the back or higher. Likewise, it is common to find specimens of this breed with their tails amputated, although it is a practice punishable by law.
- The hair is double-coated, abundant, smooth and thick: most specimens have a hair of about 3-5 cm in length, although in some cases it may be longer.
This is a very resistant breed, capable of adapting to a wide variety of climates. Now that we have seen the characteristics of the alabai dog, let's take a closer look at its colors.
Alabai dog colors
Alabai's coat can be any color (white, black, gray, reddish-brown, grayish-brown, brindle), except genetic blue or genetic brown in any combination and black mantle on fire.
The harsh living conditions and work as a guard dog have influenced the character of the Alabai. In general, they are dogs with a strong temperament, sure of themselves and proud. They are protective of their family, yet at the same time they are fairly independentdogs who expect to be treated with respect. They are untrusting dogs, who tend to be suspicious of unknown people or dogs.
Despite having a strong character, they are stable, calm and quiet dogs, that adapt well to changes in the environment. They are guard dogs that stand out for their resistance, their courage against predators and their natural instinct for territoriality. When they feel threatened, they react quickly, with total security and seriousness.
Alabai Character
Like any breed of dog, the alabai requires a series of care to stay he althy:
- Grooming: one brushing a week and one bath per month will be enough to keep the alabai's coat in perfect condition. Nails should be trimmed regularly and ears cleaned weekly to prevent wax buildup. In addition, tooth brushing should be done every 2-3 days to prevent the onset of periodontal disease.
- Exercise: Although the Alabai is a calm dog with a low energy level, it is not recommended to keep it confined to one floor, but they must have a large patio. They are dogs with great resistance, so they are ideal for those caregivers who like daily walks. For safety, during walks they should always go on a leash and should only be released in fenced spaces.
- Food: the ration can be commercial or homemade, but in any case it must be adapted to the age and activity level of the animal. As it is a large breed, taking care of its diet will be essential during its stage as a puppy. An overfeeding in this period can be responsible for important developmental diseases.
Alabai dog care
The Alabai is a slow maturing breed. Their character is forged during the first three years of life, and it is essential that they receive an appropriate education during this period. They generally require extensive socialization and the use of patient training techniques.
Being a breed with a strong and proud character, it is not recommended for caregivers without experience or without knowledge of canine education and behavior.
We leave you more information about the socialization of the dog, here.
Alabai education
The Alabai or Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a hardy dog, with fewer genetic diseases than other breeds. However, it is not exempt from suffering pathologies that reduce its quality and life expectancy, being joint pathologies the most frequent in this breed.
Alabai he alth
The Alabai is a very unusual breed in Western Europe, so finding a specimen of this breed in our country may be a complicated task. In case you have thought about including an Alabai in the family, you can contact a club of this breed to guide your search.
In any case, remember that what is truly important when adopting a new member of the family is not that they meet any racial standard, but that you can adapt to their needs and lifestyle.
