Overview
The Karst Shepherd is a livestock guardian from Slovenia, named after the Karst plateau. It is a medium-sized dog with a long, thick iron-grey coat that forms a mane around the neck.
It is strong-willed and distrustful of strangers, and with good socialisation and training it can also be a family companion.
History
The ancestors of the breed travelled with shepherds across the Karst region, probably arriving with ancient nomadic pastoralists. In 1689 the ethnographer Valvasor mentioned strong, fearless shepherd dogs from the Pivka area.
In the 20th century the landrace was documented as a modern breed, first under the name Illyrian Shepherd in 1939. The FCI recognises it in Group 2, and it has also reached the United States.
Appearance
A medium-sized dog with a long, thick iron-grey coat, a black nose, almond-shaped dark eyes and flat, medium-sized ears. The tail has a slight hook at the tip.
Dogs stand 57 to 63 cm and weigh 30 to 42 kg; bitches stand 54 to 60 cm and weigh 25 to 37 kg.
Temperament
The standard describes a sharp temperament and strong individuality, with distrust of strangers. It is a good guard dog.
Well socialised from a young age, with people or livestock depending on its job, it can become a good family dog, though individuals vary.
Care and exercise
This dog needs early, thorough socialisation, firm and fair training and space to patrol. Daily exercise and a purpose suit it best.
The long coat should be brushed regularly, particularly during seasonal moulting.
