The Tornjak, a shepherd dog originally from the Balkans, is a historic breed that has played a crucial role in protecting livestock from predators such as wolves and bears. This breed has survived difficult times, including wars and conflicts, and is today a symbol of national pride in Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia. The Tornjak is a robust, loyal, and protective working dog, valued both for its role as a shepherd dog and for its place as a faithful companion.
✨ Breed Characteristics
- Origin: Balkans
- Hypoallergenic? No
📊 Quick Facts
- Weight:
- Male: 40-60 kg
- Female: 30-45 kg
- Height:
- Male: 65-70 cm
- Female: 60-65 cm
- Life Expectancy: 10-12 years
- Exercise Needs: 1.5 to 2 hours per day
- Apartment Living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Can be adapted to apartment living but needs a large outdoor space to thrive)
🧠 Personality (out of 5 stars)
- Intelligent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Affectionate: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Protective: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Playful: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Vocalizations: ⭐⭐☆☆☆
- Obedient: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Hunter: ⭐☆☆☆☆
- Calm: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
- Athletic: ⭐⭐⭐☆
- Independent: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
🐾 Compatibility with
- Children: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (Good companion for children if well socialized)
- Other animals: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Can coexist with other animals if well socialized)
- Strangers: ⭐⭐⭐☆ (Can be reserved with strangers, but sociable with a good introduction)
- Apartment living: ⭐⭐☆☆☆ (Can live in an apartment, but requires a large garden or outdoor space)
🧼 Maintenance & care
- Ease of maintenance: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (Requires regular brushing to maintain its dense coat)
- Maintenance cost: ⭐⭐⭐☆☆ (The maintenance cost is moderate, but it can increase depending on the regular care needed)
- Care frequency:
- Brushing: Regular to avoid tangles and excessive shedding, especially during shedding periods (spring and fall)
- Other care: Ear checks to prevent infections and periodic dental care.
💰 Budget
- Purchase price: 800-1500 €
- Coût annuel moyen (vétérinaire, accessoires, alimentation) :
🏡 Important note
The Tornjak is a large, intelligent, and protective dog, suitable for experienced owners with outdoor space to meet its physical needs. Although it can live in an apartment, a large garden or yard is essential for it to expend energy. This dog is particularly suited for families and rural environments, but it must be well socialized from a young age to be a balanced and sociable companion.
