Dogs · Central Asia

Central Asian Shepherd

Large ancestral guardian, level-headed, courageous and very territorial. Size Very large, life expectancy 12–15 years, energy Low. Expect CHF 1'500 – 2'800 to buy and CHF 200–330 / month upkeep.

See available Central Asian Shepherd

Breed subject to authorisation in some Swiss cantons. Dog regulations vary from one canton to another (mandatory course, keeping permit…). Check with your canton before adopting.

At a glance

Size

Very large

Energy

Low

Life expectancy

12–15 years

Estimated budget

CHF 200–330 / month

Indicative price

CHF 1'500 – 2'800

Origin

Central Asia

Weight

40–79 kg

Height at withers

60–78 cm

Coat

Short or medium-long

Coat colour

Various, often pied

The profile at a glance

Energy

Affection

With children

With other animals

Easy to train

Grooming

Noise level

Tolerates being alone

Pros

Level-headed ancestral guardian
Courageous
Very hardy and long-lived

Things to watch

Very territorial
Independent
For expert owners

Temperament

Large ancestral guardian, level-headed, courageous and very territorial.

Daily needs

Space, firm and early training, socialisation.

Health & care

Hips. Very hardy and long-lived.

Ideal for

Guarding, large grounds, experts.

Origin & history

The Central Asian Shepherd is a very ancient breed from the vast steppe and mountain regions of Central Asia, where it has protected the flocks of nomads against predators for millennia. Shaped by natural selection and the needs of breeders more than by a modern standard, it is renowned for its hardiness, endurance, and resistance to extreme climates. Large, massive, and powerful, it is a self-reliant guardian dog, calm but determined in the face of danger. Deeply territorial and independent, the Central Asian Shepherd requires plenty of space, rigorous socialization, and an experienced owner.