The Bulgarian Shepherd Dog is a unique pet in nature. This breed of dogs has special characteristics and qualities that are not inherent in any other breeds. The main purpose of the dog and the purpose for which it is bred - is the implementation of protective and protective functions, as well as grazing.
In the article we will look at the history of the breed's origin, get acquainted with the distinctive external characteristics and behavioral features of the Bulgarian Shepherd Dog.
History of origin
The Bulgarian Shepherd Dog (the second name of the breed is “Karakachan dog”) has a very interesting and ambiguous history of its origin. In general, there is no consensus among scientists, veterinarians and breeders on this subject, therefore at the moment there are several interesting theories.
Thus, some scientists assure that this dog is quite ancient in relation to its origin. There is an opinion that a hundred breed existed in Bulgaria in the 5th century AD. And it was during this period that the first standard was set for this variety of shepherd dogs, which is significantly different from the standard that exists today. The adherents of this theory in its proof provide the words of the ruler Sandilha about dogs, whose task was to accompany and protect the flocks.
There is another opinion, which to date has gathered a large number of adherents. It is believed that the dog appeared on the territory of Bulgaria during the Thracians who once inhabited the territory of this country. These tribes were engaged in breeding numerous animals: sheep, horses, including dogs. Moreover, the latter Thracians imposed increased demands on strength, courage and endurance. The tribes favored animals that possessed a strong protective and protective instinct. Hence the second name of the shepherd dog - “Karakachan dog”.
But there is a third theory. According to the opinion of this category of scientists, the Bulgarian shepherd is a native Turkish breed that appeared and developed in this country (according to historical sources, for some time Bulgaria was part of Turkey).
I must say that today this breed is not very popular worldwide. The main habitat of the Bulgarian shepherd is Bulgaria. In Russia, an animal of this type can be purchased only in one kennel, and then at a rather high price.
Breed characteristics
In general, there is no internationally recognized standard for the Bulgarian Shepherd Dog, as this animal is not widely spread outside its native country. However, in 2005, Bulgaria adopted its own national standard for dogs. All purebred representatives must comply with it.
Thus, the appearance of the animal should be aesthetically pleasing and proportionate, without any noticeable significant deviations. The backbone of the animal is particularly durable, and the muscles - power. The height of the animal does not exceed 80 centimeters in males, and 75 centimeters - in females. As for the indicators of weight, they should vary from 40 to 60 kilograms (respectively, depending on gender).
The anatomical structure of the animal is very outstanding. The dog has a rather large skull, the front part of which expands towards the base.The ears are drooping, and the eyes of a small size are set rather deeply, the most popular coloring of the eyes is brown. The jaw apparatus consisting of 42 teeth is well developed in the Bulgarian breed. The animal has a fairly strong musculature. The chest part of the dog is well developed and has a rounded shape. The belly is tucked up, and the back is distinguished by a straight structure. The tail of the dog has a hook shape. Especially massive and strong are the hind legs of the animal.
Depending on the length and structure of wool, there are shorthair and long-haired Bulgarian shepherd dogs. And maximum wool length does not exceed 12 centimeters. The color of the animal is fairly standard, and includes 2 colors, the main of which is white, but the spots may have both dark gray or black, and brown-reddish shades.
Character and behavior
It should be immediately noted that a dog belonging to the described breed will be faithful to only one person, one owner. Despite this, she can positively and kindly treat other people, but love - only one. This dog is an animal that does not like affection.
It should be borne in mind that when you try to stroke it (especially by strangers), you can get a response aggressive reaction.
The main purpose of this type of dog is the performance of shepherd's work, which the four-sided pet has been taught since childhood. In order for the shepherd dog to meet all the necessary requirements and to do its job efficiently, it develops certain qualities:
- distrust of strangers;
- tolerance towards other dogs from the pack and towards livestock;
- obedience and unquestioning fulfillment of the master’s requirements;
- courage and courage;
- protective and protective qualities.
It is believed that females are considered to be more aggressive and courageous in their behavior. However, they also have one major drawback, which at times prevents them from fulfilling their functions qualitatively - this is insufficient physical strength.
Care rules
In general, both adult individuals and puppies of the Bulgarian shepherd are quite unpretentious animals that can adapt to the most different environmental conditions.
The main requirement is life in the open air. That is why this breed is contraindicated to keep in apartments. The perfect home for her is a spacious aviary.
In addition, there is a rule that puppies with their mother must remain until such time as they reach the age of 2 months. Before they can not be separated.
As necessary should be carried out hygiene procedures: bathing, brushing, combing. And the latter is especially important for long-haired individuals. Bathing should be done as it is polluted, in warm water and with special care products intended for animals. Also compulsory care measures include cleaning the eyes, ears and teeth. This should be done with cotton pads and sticks. Comb the animal with combs and brushes.
Do not forget about preventive medical measures. Obligatory show the puppy to the vet, do all vaccinations and other required procedures.
If you suspect the occurrence of any ailments, immediately contact your doctor, and in any case do not self-medicate.
Feeding
Due to the fact that such animals are divorced to perform physical work, especially close attention should be paid to the preparation of their diet. First of all, you need to decide what kind of food you will feed your pet. There are only 2 options: this is dry food and natural products. It is necessary to resolve this issue in the first months of a dog’s life. Mixing both options is strictly prohibited.
If you decide to feed the dog with purchased mixtures, then it is allowed to purchase only those feeds that are premium-class or are holistics. No other mixtures and compositions for the Bulgarian Shepherd will not fit.
If your choice fell on natural products, then you should adhere to a strict framework and give the animal only authorized food, namely:
- low-fat boiled meat;
- rice;
- buckwheat;
- oatmeal;
- carrot;
- zucchini;
- boiled cabbage;
- apples;
- low-fat dairy and dairy products;
- chicken eggs (not more than 2 eggs per week);
- boneless boiled fish.
Also, as a treat, the animal can be given boiled sugar pits, but not more often than 1 time in 2 weeks. It is necessary, among other things, to provide the dog with unhindered access to fresh and clean drinking water.
If possible, try to organize a specific feeding schedule so that the animal receives food daily at the same time - thus, it will develop an instinct. It is also important to observe the rules of balance and complex nutrition in order for the shepherd to get all the minerals and trace elements necessary for its body along with food.
Upbringing and training
Dogs of the Bulgarian breed have a fairly high intellectual and mental abilities, so they are well amenable to training, education and training. These processes should be started from the very childhood of the animal.
The first thing that a dog should be taught is a quiet coexistence with other individuals, since such dogs are often divorced and kept in packs. In addition, it is important that the animal obeyed and understood one owner.
All the functioning of the dog pack must be well organized and adjusted, the work should be as structured as possible.
After this, it is necessary to begin acquaintance of the dog with the cattle and to train it to perform its main work - to feed and protect the flock.
Breeding
Breeding Bulgarian Shepherd Dogs is a rather complicated and time-consuming process, the implementation of which should be approached with special care and attention. So, at first glance, it may seem to an inexperienced person that breeding is accompanied by fairly vivid manifestations of cruelty. The thing is that individuals that have even the slightest flaws are rejected. This is done to ensure uniformity of the pack.
The process of breeding animals of this breed can only be carried out by experienced breeders, therefore, beginners should not be involved in this business.
On the territory of the Russian Federation there is only one official Bulgarian Shepherd Dog Kennel, which is not an independent organization, but a branch of a Bulgarian company. Here you can witness the breeding process, as well as purchase a purebred animal. The average price for a Bulgarian shepherd dog is 45 thousand rubles.
See even more interesting facts about Bulgarian Shepherd Dogs in the next video.
