🦮 Large · Slovenia

Karst Shepherd: Size, Weight & Temperament

A Slovenian livestock guardian dog traditionally left to defend flocks against predators independently and without direction, with a pronounced territorial and protective drive.

! Experienced only
Karst Shepherd dog breed portrait
Photo: Pleple2000 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male33–45 kg
Weight female25–38 kg
Shoulder height54–63 cm
Size classLarge (25–45 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 20 months
Life expectancy11–12 years
Activity levelModerate
OriginSlovenia
ClassificationFCI Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs), Section 2.2 (Molossoid breeds, Mountain type)
Temperament & character

Calm and reserved in everyday life, but extremely watchful and resolute the moment it perceives a threat to its territory or family. It makes decisions on its own rather than waiting for commands.

Exercise & stimulation

Not an endurance athlete, but it needs daily free-running exercise in secured terrain along with a genuine guarding or protective task to stay balanced. It often actively patrols its territory at night as well.

Grooming

The dense, weatherproof double coat is shed heavily twice a year and needs more frequent brushing during that time. Otherwise, coat care is minimal.

Suitable for beginners?

Not suited to novices, since its pronounced protective and territorial drive along with its independent decision-making require experienced, consistent handling and secure fencing.

Health & common problems

Hip dysplasia is the most common orthopedic issue in this large, heavy breed; breeding stock should be X-rayed. Otherwise, the breed is considered robust and not very prone to illness.

Good with: rural properties, experienced livestock-guardian owners

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.