The Canine Chronicles Directory
Central Asian Shepherd
The Central Asian Shepherd is a dog of great size with massive bone structure and
powerful muscles. The skull is broad and massive and the muzzle is deep and blunt.
The upper lip is thick and hangs over the strong, wide lower jaw. The teeth should
meet in a scissors bite. The nose is large, broad and black. The dark eyes are oval-shaped
and small to medium in size. The ears may or may not be cropped depending on the
country in which you live. (Some countries are banning cropping and docking.) The
neck is short and powerful with subcutaneous tissues folds around it. The front
feet are large, oval and well-arched. The tail is set high and may be docked close
to the body or natural. If natural, it is thick at the base and tapers to the tip.
The coat can be either long or short. Colors include white, black, gray, straw-colored,
reddish brown, gray brown, brindle, parti-colored and ticked.
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Temperament
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The Central Asian Shepherd is an intelligent, fearless and strong-willed guardian
dog. Their active defense reaction and strong territorial instincts make this breed
very suspicious of strange people and dogs. They will stand their ground and will
not back down. They are brave, alert, strong and powerful. They have a strong urge
to protect and are nocturnal barkers. Everything and everyone who belongs to the
family ? humans, dogs or pets ? is regarded by this dog as part of its family and
will be fiercely protected. Do not leave this dog alone with children because if
play becomes too rough, the CAS will protect and do so extensively. This breed requires
an owner who understands the flock guard type and can display strong leadership
as well as provide socialization and training.
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Height, Weight
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Male Height: 27-32" ; Weight: 121-176 lbs.
Female Height: 24-27" ; Weight: 88-143 lbs.
There is NO max height or weight for this breed!
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Health Problems
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As with most large breed dogs, the CAS is prone to hip and elbow dysplasia.
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Living Conditions
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The CAS should not live in an apartment. They need a large yard, the larger the
better, with a secure fence. This breed needs a job to do. If they become bored,
they will dig and chew. They adapt well to being outdoors and watching their territory.
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Exercise
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The CAS needs lots of exercise and would do well with a person who hikes or jogs.
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Life Expectancy
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About 12-14 years if they are in the native country or about 10 years if they are
not.
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Grooming
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The coat of this breed is easy to care for. It should be brushed and combed regularly.
They shed heavily in the spring.
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Origin
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The CAS has been guarding flocks for over 4000 years. Originally from Siberia and
Mongolia, many believe that they come from the Tibetan Mastiff. They are found in
areas of Russia, Iran and Afghanistan to Siberia. This breed is seldom seen outside
of the Central Asian Republic. They are in decline in Russia, losing favor to the
larger Caucasian Sheepdog. Breeding has begun in the USA. They are recognized by
the UKC, FCI, ANKC, APRI, ACR and have been accepted for recording in the AKC Foundation
Stock Service®.
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Group
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AKC/FSS Working, UKC Guardian Dog
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