🐕 Kraski Ovcar (Karst Shepherd)
The Kraski Ovcar, or Karst Shepherd, is an ancient working dog originating from the mountainous region of the Karst massif in Slovenia. This dog is known for its role as a herder and guardian, and its powerful musculature and dense coat make it well-suited for these tasks. It is a robust dog that requires space to exercise and owners who can understand its needs.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Name: Kraski Ovcar (Karst Shepherd, Shepherd of the Karst massif, Karst Shepherd)
- Origin: Karst massif region, Slovenia.
- Type: Herding and guarding dog, robust and independent.
📊 Quick Facts
- Hypoallergenic? No ❌
- Weight:
- Male: 30-42 kg
- Female: 25-37 kg
- Height:
- Male: 57-63 cm
- Female: 54-60 cm
- Life expectancy: 10-12 years
- Exercise needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (requires a large fenced yard and open spaces)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
- Playful: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (suitable for a family with children, but must be well socialized)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (can be social with other animals, but remains a guard dog and can be territorial)
- Strangers: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (very protective and reserved with strangers)
- Apartment living: ⭐☆☆☆☆ (requires a large space and a secure garden environment)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: Regular to avoid tangles in its long, thick coat.
- Bath: An occasional bath is necessary to maintain the cleanliness of its coat.
- Specific care:
- Coat: The Karst Shepherd requires regular maintenance due to its long, dense coat. Weekly brushing is recommended to prevent the accumulation of tangles and dirt.
- Exercise: It needs a lot of physical and mental exercise. Daily walks, active play, and work activities are essential for its well-being.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-1500 €
- Coût annuel moyen (vétérinaire, accessoires, alimentation) :
🏡 Important note
The Kraski Ovcar is a working and guarding dog with a very strong protective instinct. It needs an environment where it can exercise its natural skills and large spaces to fully thrive. This is not a dog for a novice owner, as it can be stubborn and needs a master who understands its physical and mental needs. A house with a large fenced garden is ideal for this breed.
The Kraski Ovcar is an excellent choice for those looking for a loyal, protective, and energetic dog. However, it requires an experienced owner capable of meeting its exercise needs and managing its independent character. 🌲🐾
