Pet Wiki

Central Asian Shepherd Dog

Also called Alabai, Alabay, Sredneasiatskaya Ovcharka, Tobet, Central Asian Ovcharka

Quiet, proud and self-assured.

SizeGiant
Weight40 to 50 kg (88 to 110 lb)males from 50 kg, females from 40 kg1
Height65 to 70 cm (26 to 28 in)males from 70 cm, females from 65 cm12
CoatCoarse double coat, short or long
OriginCentral 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
GroupPinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs (FCI group 2)
Recognised breedShort profile
calm, balanced guardian
loyal to family
hardy and adaptable
12

Personality what they are like

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

Coat and looks how to spot one

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

Colourswhiteblackgreystrawreddish browngrey brownbrindleparti-colourticked23

The care rhythm a typical week and year

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

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate daily exercise and space to roam and patrol; it matures slowly, so calm routines suit young dogs.2

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Regular brushing of the double coat, more during seasonal shedding.12

Home where they are happiest

Built for extreme heat and cold; needs a large, securely fenced property and an experienced owner.2

Company who they like around

Devoted to its household; needs thorough, early socialisation and ongoing guidance.2

The story where it all began

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

Fun facts for the dinner table

  1. 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. 2

    Turkmenistan has celebrated a national Alabai holiday on the last Sunday of April since 2021.3

  3. 3

    An Alabai was the mascot of the 2017 Asian Indoor and Martial Arts Games in Ashgabat.3

  4. 4

    The FCI traces the breed's natural development back roughly four thousand years.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

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

Famous ones stars of the breed

Name ideas for your new friend

AslanAktashBarsTumanZarKaraDumanAybarsTengriKhanBozYel

A day in the life told by a Central Asian Shepherd Dog

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.

Recognised by the official bits

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

Treats they will love homemade and simple

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.

Source: petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

  • 1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

  1. Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
  2. Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
  3. Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

  • 1 cooking pumpkin
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
  • ½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
  • Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

  1. Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
  2. Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
  3. Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
  4. Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
  5. Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
  6. Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
  7. Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

  • 1 egg
  • 170g boiled chicken breast
  • 100g cooked plain rice
  • 60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
  • 680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

  1. Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
  2. Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
  3. Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
  4. Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
  5. Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
  6. Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
  7. Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

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

Owner questions the things everyone asks

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.7 Pet 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.127 Pet 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.7 Pet 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.2 Pet 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.7 Pet 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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Where this comes from

Every fact on this page has a numbered source. Spotted an error? [email protected].

  1. FCI Standard No. 335 Sredneasiatskaya Ovtcharka fci.beused for recognition, size, coat, temperament, history
  2. UKC Central Asian Shepherd Dog breed standard ukcdogs.comused for origin countries, coat, colours, temperament, care
  3. Central Asian Shepherd Dog - Wikipedia en.wikipedia.orgused for other names, Turkmenistan facts, history
  4. researchgate.net researchgate.net
  5. VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
  6. ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
  7. ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions

Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.