| Country of Origin: | Slovenia |
| Registries: | FCI, UKC, SKC, DRA |
| Breed Group: | FCI: Group 2 Section 2.2 Molossoid breeds-Mountain type #278, UKC: Guardian Dog Group |
| Occupation: | Flock Guard/an excellent sheepdog |
| Size: | Height: 21 – 24 inches ( 53- 60 inches) Weight: 26 – 40 kg (58 – 88 lbs) |
| Longevity; | 11-12 years |
| Exercise: | Daily, long, brisk walk or jog |
| Training: | Obedience, socialization |
| Grooming: | Easy |
| Colors: | Iron grey, darkest on the body, and shading to light grey or sandy on the belly and the limbs |
Slovenia’s Karst Shepherd is a native dog, several centuries old, which was used as a shepherd dog. The Karst Shepherd was used as a shepherd in the Slovenian karst area mainly around Pivka.
The ancestors of the shepherds are described by an internationally recognized researcher Strebela as a liaison between the Greek and Molossi German Shepherd. He also mentioned the possibility of Latin origin via Pompei dog.
However, it is most likely that this dog breed has been brought to the karst area by the Romans who, with flocks of sheep, came to this region over the Dalmatian islands and Istria. International Kennel Club has officially recognized the Karst Shepherd in 1939 year at the meeting in Stockholm.
Karst Shepherd is calm, bright, good natured and, if necessary rough dog , very affectionate towards its master. It is still used as a sheepdog and otherwise is a good keeper and faithful companion. It is easy to treat him, he is gentle and cheerful. It is necessary to treat them with certain firmness, avoiding hastiness that he really can not stand.
Karst Shepherd is a strong dog of medium height. The head is broad, noble, nice -looking, he has a slightly convex skull. The tail is set high. The hair is long and straight with dense undercoat . On the head and the front part of the leg the hair is short.
Karst Shepherd Dog is a very active dog and is not recommended for life in an apartment. He needs space, and the best would be to live in a house with a large yard. In addition to the space he needs also daily exercise – jogging, long walks, jogging outdoors, etc.
As for the hygiene, usual brushing several times is enough to remove dead hair. Bathing the dog is recommended twice a year. Karst Shepherd has lowered ears, so it must be checked and cleaned if necessary and trimmed regularly.