The Bulgarian Shepherd is a unique in nature pet. This breed of dog 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 performance of protective and protective functions, as well as grazing.
In the article we will consider the history of the breed, get acquainted with the distinctive external characteristics and behavioral characteristics of the Bulgarian Shepherd.
Origin history
The Bulgarian Shepherd (the second name of the breed is “Karakachan dog”) has a very interesting and ambiguous history of its origin. In general, among scientists, veterinarians and breeders there is no consensus on this matter, so at the moment there are several interesting theories.
So, 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 that period that the first standard was established for this variety of shepherd dogs, which is significantly different from the standard that exists today. Adherents of this theory in its evidence provide the words of the ruler Sandilha about dogs, whose task was to accompany and protect the flock.
There is another opinion, which today has gathered a greater number of adherents. It is believed that the dog on the territory of Bulgaria appeared 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 requirements regarding strength, courage and endurance. Tribes preferred animals that possessed a pronounced protective and protective instinct. From here the second name of the shepherd went - "Karakachan dog."
But there is a third theory. According to this category of scientists, the Bulgarian shepherd is a native Turkish breed that appeared and developed in this country (according to historical sources, Bulgaria was part of Turkey for some time).
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 kind can only be purchased in one nursery, and then at a fairly high price.
Breed characteristics
In general, there is no internationally recognized standard for the Bulgarian Shepherd, as this animal is not widespread outside the home country. However, in 2005 Bulgaria adopted its own national standard for dogs. All purebred representatives must comply with it.
So, the appearance of the animal should be aesthetically pleasing and proportional, without any noticeable significant deviations. The skeleton of the animal is particularly strong, and the muscles are powerful. The growth of the animal does not exceed 80 centimeters in males, and 75 centimeters in females. As for the mass indicators, 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 of which extends to the base. The ears are hanging, and the eyes are small set rather deep; the most popular eye color is brown. The jaw apparatus, consisting of 42 teeth, is well developed in the Bulgarian breed. The animal has quite strong muscles. The sternum of the dog is well developed, and has rounded outlines. The abdomen is tightened, and the back has 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 the coat, short-haired and long-haired Bulgarian shepherds are distinguished. Moreover maximum wool length does not exceed 12 centimeters. The color of the animal is quite standard, and includes 2 colors, the main of which is white, but the spots can have both dark gray or black, and brownish-reddish hues.
Nature and behavior
It should immediately be 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 relate to 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 an aggressive response.
The main purpose of this type of dog is to carry out shepherd work, to which a four-pet is taught from childhood. In order for the shepherd to meet all the necessary requirements and be able to perform its work efficiently, some qualities are developed in it:
- distrust of strangers;
- tolerance towards other dogs from the pack and towards livestock;
- obedience and unquestioning compliance with the requirements of the owner;
- courage and courage;
- protective and protective qualities.
It is believed that females are more aggressive and bold in their behavior. However, they also have one significant drawback, which sometimes prevents them from performing their functions efficiently - this is insufficient physical strength.
Care Rules
In general, both adults and puppies of the Bulgarian Shepherd Dog are quite unpretentious animals that can adapt to a variety of environmental conditions.
The main requirement is life in the fresh air. That is why this breed is contraindicated in apartments. The ideal home for her is a spacious enclosure.
In addition, there is a rule that puppies with their mother must remain until they are 2 months old. They should not be separated before.
As necessary should be carried out hygiene procedures: bathing, cleaning, combing. Moreover, the latter is especially true for long-haired individuals. Perform bathing as it gets dirty, in warm water and using special care products designed for animals. Also mandatory cleaning measures include cleaning the eyes, ears and teeth. This should be done with cotton pads and sticks. We comb the animal with combs and brushes.
Do not forget about preventive medical measures. Without fail, show the puppy to the veterinarian, do all vaccinations and other required procedures.
If you suspect the occurrence of any ailments, consult a doctor immediately, and in no case do self-medication.
Feeding
Due to the fact that such animals are bred to perform physical work, especially close attention must be paid to compiling their diet. First of all, you need to decide what type of food you will feed your pet. There are only 2 options: this is dry food and natural products. This issue needs to be resolved in the first months of the dog’s life. Mixing both options is strictly prohibited.
If you decide to feed the dog with purchased mixtures, then you are allowed to purchase only those foods that are premium or holistic. No other mixtures and compositions for the Bulgarian Shepherd are suitable.
If your choice fell on natural products, then you should adhere to a strict framework and give the animal only permitted food, namely:
- lean cooked meat;
- rice
- buckwheat;
- oatmeal;
- carrot;
- zucchini;
- boiled cabbage;
- apples
- low-fat sour-milk and dairy products;
- chicken eggs (in an amount of not more than 2 eggs per week);
- boiled fish without bones.
Also, boiled sugar bones can be given to the animal as a treat but not more 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 at the same time every day - this way, he will develop instinct. It is also important to observe the rules of balanced and comprehensive nutrition so that the shepherd along with the food receives all the minerals and trace elements necessary for her body.
Parenting and training
Dogs of the Bulgarian breed possess rather high intellectual and mental abilities, therefore they lend themselves well 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 trained is a quiet coexistence with other individuals, since such dogs are often bred and kept in packs. In addition, it is important that the animal obeys and understands one owner.
All functioning of the dog pack should be well organized and streamlined, the work should be as structured as possible.
After this, it is necessary to begin acquaintance of the dog with cattle and to train it to perform its main work - to graze 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 rather vivid manifestations of cruelty. The thing is that individuals that have at least the slightest flaws are discarded. 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, so beginners should not do this business.
On the territory of the Russian Federation there is only one official kennel of Bulgarian Shepherds, 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 thoroughbred animal. The average price of a Bulgarian shepherd is 45 thousand rubles.
See even more interesting facts about Bulgarian Shepherds in the next video.
