Karst Shepherd Dog
Other names: Krasky Ovcar, Krasevec, Krazski Ovcar, Karst Sheepdog, Istrian Sheepdog

The Karst is a livestock guardian dog. It was originally bred in Slovenia and is still mostly used by Slovenian farmers. It is rarely seen out of its native lands but its popularity elsewhere in the world is on the rise. It is used as a herder and a guardian of livestock due to its alertness and protective nature. It is a fearsome watchdog, but an unlikely sensitive companion about the house.
Key facts about the Karst Shepherd Dog
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Origins and history
Records of the Karst show a lineage dating back several centuries; it is mentioned in a Slovenian chronicle of 1689. The breed was officially recognised in 1939.
FCI breed nomenclature
FCI Group
Group 2 - Pinscher and Schnauzer - Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattledogs
Section
Section 2 : Molossian type
Physical characteristics of the Karst Shepherd Dog
Adult size
Female : Between 21 and 24 in
Male : Between 22 and 25 in
Weight
Female : Between 55 and 82 lb
Male : Between 66 and 93 lb
Coat colour
A mix of iron grey, light grey and sandy colours.
Type of coat
The Karst has a long and abundant topcoat and undercoat. Its head and front parts of its legs are covered with shorter hair. Thick and long fur around the neck forms a mane.
Eye colour
Dark brown or chestnut.
Description
A muscular and robust dog. The head is slightly large proportionally than it should be; nicely shaped and wide from the skull to the muzzle. The ears are relatively high on the head but hang against the cheek. Its sabre-shaped tail is broad and well-feathered.
Good to know
The Karst has a want to be the dominant dog of a pack. If it is not taught from a young age to respect the boundaries of the hierarchy, this dog will seek to take control of the household. Consistency from its owner is required. That is not to say that the Karst should be treated unpleasantly.
Temperament
Behaviour of the Karst Shepherd Dog
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Compatibility
Price
The average price for a purebred puppy of this breed is around £730. It will cost between £80 and £110 per month to keep this dog.
Grooming
This dog should be brushed two or three times a week with a pin brush and metal comb. Bath this dog only when necessary and use a mild dog shampoo.
Nutrition of the Karst Shepherd Dog
You should feed this dog a dog food formulated to support the health of an active dog.
Health of the Karst Shepherd Dog
Life expectancy
Overall the Karst is a healthy breed of dog. Its average life expectancy is 12 to 14 years.
Strong / robust
This dog is robust, fearless and confident.
Withstand heat
The Karst is reasonably tolerant of hot weather.
Withstand cold
The Karst is very tolerant of cold and wet weather. The coat must be dried thoroughly after a wet walk.
Tendency to put on weight
If a Karst is not exercised as regularly as it should be and is fed too much human or substandard food it will become obese.
Common illnesses
- Hip dysplasia
- Malignant hyperthermia