Tornjak
Temperament:
The Tornjak - also known as the Bosnian and Herzegovinian - Croatian Shepherd Dog - originates, as the name suggests, from present-day Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina. It is mainly used as a herding dog, guard dog and companion dog. It is characterized by its loyalty, but above all by its appearance.
Characteristics
The Tornjak belongs to FCI Group 2, has the FCI standard number 355 and is a large, strong dog with a well-proportioned build and good agility.
He fits very well into a family life with a house and yard or garden. He likes to protect the property. He also fits very well on a farm, where he likes to protect the herd. He needs a large territory and is very eager to move around in it.
Typical of a guard dog is its pronounced protective instinct towards its conspecifics. For this reason, the handler should be familiar with Mollosers.
An adult male dog has a shoulder height of 70 cm and weighs around 50 kg. Females are somewhat smaller and lighter.
The ears are drooping, but not very long. The coat is long, wavy and weather-resistant. It has a dense undercoat. This means that this breed is also ideally equipped for outdoor use in winter in unfavorable weather conditions.
Although the Tornjak is not generally considered aggressive, it can occasionally be suspicious of strangers or other dogs and animals. This mistrust can turn into aggression if the owner is not confident. Consistent training and experience is therefore very important.
This breed is self-confident and knows how to defend itself and others in an emergency. It can be trained well with consistent training and is willing to obey its owner's commands.
Coat care:
Shedding:
Energy level:
Trainability:
Children suitable:
The right food
When choosing food, make sure that it contains high-quality ingredients, is balanced and meets your dog's requirements. Age, size or weight, activity and health status play an important role. You should follow the manufacturer's recommendations for the amount of food.
Treats should only be fed in moderation and deducted from the basic diet to avoid obesity.
Puppies can be fed 4-6 times a day. The number of meals should be gradually reduced to 2 per day until the dog is fully grown. A rest period should be observed after meals.
Fresh drinking water should be available at all times.
Health & Care
Grooming is not only good for a dog's health, but also creates a close bond between dog and owner.
Although the Tornjak has a rather thick, wavy coat and a dense undercoat, it does not require much grooming. A thorough brushing once a week is sufficient. An occasional bath with a suitable dog shampoo is possible if it gets too dirty.
Clipping should be avoided at all costs. It would change the structure of the coat and the undercoat, which is not recommended. The undercoat protects the dog from the cold and wet in winter. In summer, it protects against sunlight and heat.
The Tornjak's strong, fast-growing claws need to be trimmed or sharpened regularly to prevent overgrowth, tearing or the like. Claws that are too long can also have a negative effect on posture, which can lead to skeletal health problems over time.
The ears should also be checked and cleaned regularly for dirt, parasites or other harmful deposits. A suitable ear cleaner for dogs can be used for this purpose.
The teeth must be brushed. You can also give him occasional chews to reduce the build-up of plaque.
It's best to start grooming when your dog is a puppy and turn the individual steps into a ritual. Your dog will get used to it more quickly and it will become a pleasant experience for him.
Suitable accessories
As with other dogs, a food bowl and water bowl are required.
You will also need a lead, collar or harness. When choosing a lead, please bear in mind that your dog is particularly large and strong. The lead must be tear-resistant but also soft enough. Because if your Tornjak suddenly breaks free, it can tear or cause abrasions on your hand.
You need a secure transport box for transportation in the car. It should be equipped in such a way that the dog is protected in an emergency. Also bear in mind that dogs are legally considered to be transported goods when being transported on public transport and must therefore be transported in a transport box with appropriate safety belts.
Your Tornjak also needs a place to retreat to, which serves as a place to lie down and sleep. A dog bed in its size is recommended here. Preferably washable and dirt-repellent A dog kennel is suitable for outdoor use, e.g. in the yard. A blanket or cushion can be used as a base.
A brush and comb for regular grooming should not be missing from the accessories. Toothpaste and toothbrush for dogs, tick tweezers, claw clippers and a first aid kit should also be included. It's best to ask your vet what should be in the first aid kit.
Toys for exercise and mental stimulation should not be too small, as there is a risk of them being swallowed. You should also bear in mind that this dog is very strong. The toys should therefore be sturdy enough. Frisbees or balls are suitable for outdoor play. The Tornjak also loves to sniff out hidden objects. It is always ready to learn new tricks.
Origin & History
The Tornjak breed is the offspring of indigenous, genetically homogeneous shepherd dogs of the old type, which were almost extinct. They were common in the mountainous regions and valleys of Bosnia, Herzegovina and Croatia.
The first written mention of this breed dates back to 1067 and 1374.
The systematic rescue of this breed from extinction in Bosnia, Croatia and Herzegovina began in the early 1970s. Pure breeding began in 1978.
Today, the breed consists of many purebred dogs. The Tornjak was finally recognized by the FCI in 2017.
