40 to 50 kg (88 to 110 lb)males from 50 kg, females from 40 kg1
Height
65 to 70 cm (26 to 28 in)males from 70 cm, females from 65 cm12
Coat
Coarse double coat, short or long
Origin
Central Asia, from the Caspian Sea to the borders of China, with Turkmenistan, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan, Afghanistan and Iran all part of its range.12
Group
Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs (FCI group 2)
what they are likeCentral Asian Shepherd Dog temperament
Quiet, proud and self-assured. It thinks for itself after centuries of working alone with flocks, stays loyal and gentle with its family, and keeps a watchful eye on strangers.123
how to spot oneCentral Asian Shepherd Dog coat and colours
coarse double coat, short or long
A straight, harsh outer coat over a dense undercoat, either short (around 3-5 cm) or longer (7-10 cm) with a mane and feathering. The dog has a broad, massive head and big rounded feet.12
A typical home-care rhythm for a Central Asian Shepherd Dog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.
BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year
by countryIs the Central Asian Shepherd Dog legal where you live?
3 of the 44 countries we check have a rule that names the Central Asian Shepherd Dog. Check the law before you travel or move, the details change.
Rules by country
Country
Rule
Source
Denmark
BannedHundeloven §1a: possession and breeding of these 13 breeds and any cross containing them is prohibited (since 2010); commercial import is banned.
Permit requiredRegolamento sui cani (RCani, in force 1 Jan 2026) art. 14-20: 30 breeds and crosses born after 1 April 2009 need an authorisation from the cantonal veterinary office before acquisition, a training course, aptitude tests at 9-13 months and in year 3; applies to dogs staying over 30 days a year.
Insurance requiredCabinet of Ministers resolution 'Deiaki pytannia shchodo nebezpechnykh porid sobak' (10 Nov 2021) lists 51 breeds and their mixes as dangerous: owners must hold compulsory liability insurance when registering, and use a leash and muzzle where the dog may endanger people.
Checked 2026-11-05. Laws change and local rules exist; this is a sourced overview, not legal advice.
how busy a day looksCentral Asian Shepherd Dog exercise needs
Moderate daily exercise and space to roam and patrol; it matures slowly, so calm routines suit young dogs.2
the hands-on bitsCentral Asian Shepherd Dog grooming and care
Regular brushing of the double coat, more during seasonal shedding.12
where they are happiestCentral Asian Shepherd Dog at home
Built for extreme heat and cold; needs a large, securely fenced property and an experienced owner.2
who they like aroundCentral Asian Shepherd Dog with people and other pets
Devoted to its household; needs thorough, early socialisation and ongoing guidance.2
where it all beganCentral Asian Shepherd Dog history
Nomadic peoples of Central Asia used these dogs for thousands of years to protect sheep, goats, caravans and camps, and harsh natural conditions shaped the breed. Soviet breeders began more formal selection in the 1930s, and Turkmenistan approved its own standard in 1990.123
for the dinner tableFun facts
1
In Turkmenistan the Alabai is a national symbol, and a 15-metre gilded statue of one was unveiled in Ashgabat in November 2020.3
2
Turkmenistan has celebrated a national Alabai holiday on the last Sunday of April since 2021.3
3
An Alabai was the mascot of the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Ashgabat.3
4
The FCI traces the breed's natural development back roughly four thousand years.1
the story behind itWhere the name comes from
The breed is called Central Asian Shepherd Dog because it originated in the regions of Central Asia, where it was used for centuries by nomadic tribes to guard livestock. It is also known as Alabai (from Turkmen Alabaý) and Tobet (Kazakh), reflecting its deep roots in the cultures of Turkmenistan and Kazakhstan.3
stars of the breedFamous ones
Bovser A notable Turkmen Alabai featured in research as a representative of the Turkmen type of the breed.4
Akgush A notable Turkmen Alabai featured in research as a representative of the Turkmen type of the breed.4
told by a Central Asian Shepherd DogA day in the life
I wake at dawn, stretch my giant paws, and pad a slow circle around my yard. The morning breeze carries news from every corner of my domain. I check each fence post, sniff the gate, and nod to the chickens. They cluck back politely. When my human brings breakfast, I thank them with a soft nudge. The mail carrier stops at the gate; I sit tall and watch until they leave. That's my job. In the afternoon, I lie in the sun and let the children lean against my warm side while they read. At night, I make one last patrol, then settle near the door, one ear cocked, ready. It's a good life, quiet and full of purpose.
A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.
the official bitsRecognised by
FCI
Standard no. 335, Group 2, Section 2.2 Molossoid breeds, mountain type; standard dated 13.10.2010.1
UKC
Guardian Dog Group; standard revised 2 January 2023.2
Turkmenistan
Breed standard approved by the State Agroindustrial Committee in 1990.3
homemade and simpleTreats they will love
Central Asian Shepherd Dog tip
Choose small, low-calorie treats and count them in your dog's daily calories, as this breed gains weight easily and extra pounds strain the joints. Avoid rich, fatty treats and table scraps to help protect against weight gain and pancreatitis risk.
Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use
the things everyone asksOwner questions
How often should I feed my Central Asian Shepherd Dog, and at what times?
Feed your adult Central Asian Shepherd Dog at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Stick to regular times each day to keep their digestion happy. For exact amounts, check the food label and ask your vet.5
What should a Central Asian Shepherd Dog eat, and which foods are dangerous?
A balanced, high-quality dog food suited for large breeds is best for your Central Asian Shepherd Dog. Never give them chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, or any foods from the toxic list. Always consult your vet for specific dietary advice.6
How often should I bathe a Central Asian Shepherd Dog?
Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days, which is about every two and a half months. You can bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to protect their coat's natural oils.7Pet Wiki plan
How often does a Central Asian Shepherd Dog need brushing?
Brush your Central Asian Shepherd Dog every three days as a starting routine, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. Their double coat needs regular brushing to remove loose hair and keep it healthy.127Pet Wiki plan
How do I trim a Central Asian Shepherd Dog's nails, and how often?
Trim your dog's nails about every 28 days, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail trimmer and cut small bits at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain.7Pet Wiki plan
How much exercise does a Central Asian Shepherd Dog need?
Your Central Asian Shepherd Dog needs moderate daily exercise, like walks and playtime, plus space to roam and patrol. They mature slowly, so keep routines calm for young dogs. A securely fenced property is ideal.2Pet Wiki plan
How do I look after a Central Asian Shepherd Dog's teeth and ears?
Brush your dog's teeth daily if possible, or at least every two days, using a dog-safe toothpaste. Check their ears every two weeks for dirt or redness, and clean gently without inserting anything into the ear canal.7Pet Wiki plan
How long does a Central Asian Shepherd Dog live?
Lifespan varies for each dog; ask your vet or a good breeder for an estimate based on your dog's health and lineage.
Is a Central Asian Shepherd Dog good with children and other pets?
With proper early socialisation and guidance, your Central Asian Shepherd Dog can be gentle and loyal with children in its family. They are naturally watchful with strangers, so introduce other pets carefully and supervise interactions.12
Can a Central Asian Shepherd Dog be left alone?
Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are independent but deeply devoted to their family, so they can be left alone for reasonable periods if well-trained. However, they thrive with companionship and should not be left alone for very long without proper exercise and mental stimulation.2
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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