COUNTRY: Yugoslavia
WEIGHT: 55-88 pounds
HEIGHT: 201/2-24 inches
COAT: Medium, dense and harsh
COLOR: Iron gray with shadings
OTHER NAMES: Karst Sheepdog, Istrian Sheepdog
GROUP: Flock Guard
Nestled up against the Alps of Italy and Austria is the northern border of Yugoslavia. The area called Karst (or Kras) encompasses much of northern Yugoslavia, including the Istrian Peninsula jutting out into the Adriatic Sea. The local livestock-guarding dog is closely related to the Sarplaninac of the south. Both the Karst and the Sar are obviously related to the flock guards of Greece, Rumania and the eastern Balkans.
Americans, looking for examples of this breed in the late 1970s, were told that if any existed, "all the[se] dogs were now only in the south" of Yugoslavia. But their obituary was premature. A few lovers of this breed worked to see it saved in its homeland, Europe and even in America.
Most of these breeders were people of Yugoslavian descent who saw the Karst as a living piece of their country's history. The FCI has now granted international recognition to the breed.
The Krasky Ovcar is only seen in the iron gray color, preferably with darker shadings on the back and "spectacles" around the eyes. The ears are small and set fairly high, hanging down in a flat v. The long tail is heavy with hair, forming a flag. Muscles must be strong and well developed, giving an impression of mammoth strength. Its leathery footpads enable it to go over nearly impassable terrain and rocks.
A good domestic dog, the Karst has been described as a cheerful, delightful companion. He is wary of strangers and not easily won over, and these characteristics combined with abundant courage make him an excellent guardian. He is smaller and less aggressive than some of the other flock guards. Sporadically, a specimen of the breed is exhibited at rare breed shows in America and FCI events in Europe. The breed has not been promoted like the Sar for livestock guarding in America, but it has served in that capacity in its homeland for centuries.