The Alabai, also known as the Central Asian Shepherd Dog, stands as a magnificent and robust breed, boasting an impressive lineage that stretches back over 5,000 years. Originating from the rugged terrains of Central Asia, these dogs were initially bred to serve as vigilant guardians for goats and sheep, a role they continue to fulfil with unwavering dedication.
In the modern era, their day to day use has expanded beyond herding to include safeguarding the nomadic communities’ families and belongings, demonstrating their versatility and enduring importance in these cultures.
With a bite force ranging between 500 and 650 pounds per square inch, the Alabai possesses one of the most powerful jaws among canine breeds. This formidable bite, combined with their imposing size, makes them an unmatched protector against predators and threats.
History of the Alabai Breed
The Central Asian Shepherd has its ancestry deeply rooted in the vast expanse between the Ural Mountains, the Caspian Sea, Asia Minor, and the Northwest frontier of China. This breed, one of the oldest and most historically significant, has served as a reliable guardian and companion across the rugged landscapes of Central Asia for centuries.
It can be found in countries like Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Afghanistan, Uzbekistan, and surrounding nations. The Alabai breed stands as a symbol of national pride and heritage, especially in Turkmenistan. This reverence was epitomized in 2020 with the unveiling of a gold statue in honor of the breed, highlighting its esteemed status in the region.
Traditionally, Alabais have played a variety of roles, from guarding livestock against predators to protecting their owners and even participating in dog fighting—a practice deeply ingrained in the culture of many Central Asian countries. Despite the controversial nature of dog fighting, it is important to note that traditional fights were about establishing dominance rather than causing harm, with most encounters resulting in minor injuries, if any.
Russian biologists and scientists have been intrigued by this breed since the 18th century, recognizing its unparalleled working abilities and robustness. However, the Soviet era saw the importation of these dogs into Russia for military and guard duties, which, while beneficial in some aspects, led to the dilution of the breed’s purity in its native lands through crossbreeding.
Despite these challenges, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog population remains stable, with ongoing efforts to preserve its qualities through careful breeding practices across Russia, other former USSR republics, and native countries.
Size and Weight of an Alabai
The Alabai, or Central Asian Shepherd Dog, is a breed known for its imposing stature and robust build, reflecting its historical role as a guardian and protector.
Adult males typically stand at 65 to 78cm (25 to 30 inches) at the shoulder, while females are slightly smaller, standing at 60 to 69 centimeters (23 to 27 inches).
When it comes to weight, there is a significant range due to the breed’s varied types, with males weighing between 50 to 79 kilograms (110 to 174 pounds) and females slightly lighter, at 40 to 65 kilograms (88 to 143 pounds).
This considerable size and weight make the Alabai one of the largest and most physically commanding dog breeds, equipped with the strength and endurance needed to perform their duties as effective protectors and companions.
| Male Height | 65cm to 78cm (25 to 30 inches) |
| Female Height | 60 to 69cm (23 to 27 inches) |
| Male Weight | 50 to 79 Kgs (110 to 174 pounds) |
| Female Weight | 40 to 65 Kgs (88 to 143 pounds) |
Appearance
The Alabai is characterized by a remarkable diversity within the breed, including variations in size, color, head types, and coat types. This diversity extends to their social behavior, with these dogs known for forming close-knit groups each assuming different roles, reflecting the breed’s versatility and adaptability.
Central Asian Shepherds possess unique physical features such as extremely flexible joints, false ribs, a specific head set, and a strong neck adorned with a massive dewlap, complemented by expressive eyes that reflect their intelligence.
Life Span of an Alabai
The Alabai dog breed can live anywhere between 12 and 15 years. This all depends on the lifestyle they lead. If they eat good food, get plenty of daily exercise and have regular check ups, they could live longer.
Temperament and Behaviour
The Alabai breed is known to be very loyal, confident, territorial and protective. They can exhibit aggressive behaviour if they feel threatened or if they sense their family are threatened.
They are known to be a quiet breed and will rarely bark, but will let you know when strangers come to the door.
They are affectionate towards their owner and close family. This makes them a good family dog, suited to households with older children. They love to play with children, especially the children they live with in the family home.
They will be quite active and playful when they are outside, but when they are inside, they tend to be a lot more relaxed and will just sit down and watch the world go by.
Pros and Cons of Owning an Alabai
Owning an Alabai dog can be a rewarding experience, but it also comes with its set of challenges. Here are some pros and cons to consider if you’re thinking about bringing an Alabai into your life:
Pros of Owning an Alabai
Loyal Protector: Alabais are known for their unwavering loyalty and protective instincts. They make excellent guard dogs, ensuring the safety of their families and property.
Independent and Intelligent: This breed is known for its intelligence and independence. Alabais can make decisions on their own, especially when it comes to protecting their charges, which can be a valuable trait in a guard dog.
Robust Health: Generally, Alabais are a hardy breed with fewer genetic health issues than many other large breeds. Their history of being bred for harsh conditions contributes to their robust health.
Adaptable: They are highly adaptable to various climates, from extreme cold to heat, thanks to their thick coat and sturdy build. This makes them suitable for various living conditions, although they thrive best with plenty of space.
Cons of Owning an Alabai
Requires Experienced Handling: Due to their size, strength, and independent nature, Alabais are best suited for experienced dog owners. They require firm, consistent training and socialization from an early age.
Potential for Aggression: If not properly trained and socialized, Alabais can be aggressive towards strangers and other animals. Their protective nature needs to be managed carefully.
High Exercise Needs: Being a large and active breed, Alabais require regular exercise to stay healthy and happy. Without adequate physical and mental stimulation, they can become bored and destructive.
Not Ideal for Small Property / Apartment Living: Due to their size and energy levels, Alabais are not well-suited for apartment living. They do best in homes with large, securely fenced yards where they can roam and patrol.
Health Conditions
The Alabai generally is considered a very healthy and genetically resistant breed. This means that they don’t really have any known breed related weaknesses when it comes to health.
The only thing that they can suffer from is hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia, mainly caused by the sheer size of the breed.
Hip Dysplasia: This is a hereditary condition where the thighbone doesn’t fit snugly into the hip joint. It can lead to discomfort, lameness, and arthritis over time. Hip dysplasia is common in large breed dogs like the Alabai, and screening for this condition is crucial for breeding animals.
Elbow Dysplasia: Similar to hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia is a genetic condition that affects the elbow joint, leading to pain, lameness, and arthritis. Early detection and management are key to improving the quality of life for affected dogs.
Alabai Puppies
Alabai puppies are just the cutest! But beware, they’re not small for very long! Alabai puppies need a lot of attention and playtime to keep them stimulated and entertained. Before welcoming an Alabai puppy into your life, ensure your home is safe and puppy-proofed, and that you are fully prepared for the dedication required to nurture this breed. Alabais demand more attentive care and consistent training compared to many other dog breeds.
Cost of an Alabai Puppy
Alabai puppies can cost anywhere between $1000 and $3000.
Similar Dog Breeds to The Alabai
Several dog breeds share similarities with the Alabai (Central Asian Shepherd Dog) in terms of size, temperament, or purpose (such as guarding and livestock protection). Here are a few breeds that are similar:
- Kangal Shepherd Dog: Originating from Turkey, the Kangal is known for its formidable size and strength, protective instincts, and loyalty. They are excellent guardian dogs for livestock, with a calm demeanor around their family.
- Caucasian Shepherd Dog: This breed from the Caucasus Mountains is known for its large size and thick coat, making it a formidable guardian against predators in harsh climates. They are protective, strong-willed, and loyal.
- Tibetan Mastiff: Originating from Tibet, this breed is known for its impressive size, thick fur, and protective nature. Tibetan Mastiffs are independent, reserved with strangers, and make excellent guardians.
- Anatolian Shepherd Dog: Hailing from Turkey, this breed is known for its endurance, intelligence, and guarding capabilities. They are independent, protective, and can be reserved with strangers, making them excellent livestock guardians.
- Great Pyrenees: Known for their calm and patient demeanor, the Great Pyrenees is a livestock guardian breed that originates from the Pyrenees Mountains of France and Spain. They are protective, loyal, and gentle with their family.
- Maremma Sheepdog: Originating from Italy, the Maremma Sheepdog is a guardian breed known for its protective instincts towards livestock and family. They are intelligent, loyal, and possess a strong work ethic.
- Akbash Dog: This Turkish breed is known for its white coat, lean build, and guardian instincts. Akbash dogs are calm, independent, and effective as livestock guardians, showing courage and loyalty.