The Alabai (also known as the Central Asian sheep-dog, Credneasiatskaya Ovcharka, Central Asian Ovcharka, Central Asian Shepherd dog, Turkmen Alabai, Alabay, the Wolfhound, Volkodav) is one of the most ancient dog breeds. Since ancient times, the Alabai was an irreplaceable assistant, a friend and the companion to Shepherds in Central Asia. Loyal, tender, incorruptible, surprisingly strong and wise, the Alabai is becoming the most demanded breed in the world. Though its appearance may change depending on particular area the dog was bred in, over all the Alabai is a muscular, large mastiff-type dog with a well-balanced appearance and imposing presence. It is believed that the breed has been in existence for three to six thousand years. True origins of this dog are modern Central Asian countries like Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Kazakhstan as well as Iran, Afghanistan to Siberia. This large dog has height and weight between 27-30 inches and 121-176 lbs respectively.
According to FCI standards, the head is massive with broad skull and flat forehead. Muzzle is shorter than length of skull with a black/brown strong nose. Ears should be triangular, hanging, small and set low while eyes should be dark, wide apart, round and set straight. Neck should be short, muscular and slightly arched. Chest is wide and deep with rounded ribs and belly is moderately tucked up. Back is strong and straight. Tail is set high, hangs low to the hock. Coat comes either long or short in different colours like White, black, grey, straw, ginger (rusty), grey-brown, brindle, piebald and speckled.
The dog is NOT recognized by AKC, however it is recognized by FCI, ANKC, UKC and AKC (FSS) (The AKC Foundation Stock Service (FSS) is an optional recording service for purebred dogs that are not yet eligible for AKC registration.)
