Turkmenistan: Alabay aka Turkmen Wolf-Hound Dog Farm

That was a total highlight of our trip – visiting. Farm that breeds and nurtures Alabay dogs north of Ashgabat. The Alabay, also known as the Central Asian Shepherd Dog or Turkmen Wolf-Hound, is a super large and powerful breed originating from Turkmenistan, where it’s a true symbol of national pride. No sale or export of Alabay dogs outside of the country are allowed. Alabays are truly giant – they stand at least 65 cm (26 inches) at the shoulder, with males taller than females, and weigh up to 80 kg (175 lb). They are used as powerful guard dogs for sheep and goats. Alabays are one of the oldest dog breeds in earth, having evolved over 4000 years! Alabays even have a national holiday in Turkmenistan! We got super lucky not just to see the adult dogs but to play with half a dozen super adorable little month-old puppies.