Karst Shepherd is a unique, highly prized and rare breed. It is the only officially recognized Slovenian autochthonous breed and amounts up to 700-800 representatives. Small number, big love! This love is quite old, more than 500 years, and was firstly mentioned as Illyrian Shepherd. 

Karst Shepherd is medium sized, harmonious dog with a strong constitution. Male height, defined by Standard, is 57-63 cm (22-25 inches), weight 26-40 kg (58-88 pounds); females are slightly smaller. Rich iron-grey coat is straight, at least 10 cm long and double. The head is noble, with friendly eyes and hanging ears. Strong teeth make scissor-bite.

Strong teeth, strong character, indeed. Breed is often described as brave,  independent and incorruptible. It is an excellent watchdog, amazing sheepdog, but also makes the best family member. It is friendly, calm, tolerant, loves children and highly attached to its pack. Karst Shepherds are nowadays seen in big cities as well as on pastures, in obedience competitions and modern sports, such as rally-obedience, agillity etc. 

Kast Shepherd is easy to maintain: it requires just some basic care, such as weekly brushing and perhaps bathing once a year. More attention should be paid to socialization and schooling, which shall be consistent and based on positive motivation. Well socialized shepherd will make an excellent partner in urban environment and will live happily even in a small apartment, as well as outdoors. 

Proper nutrition and exercise will keep your dog healthy up to 15 years. As a rare breed it is very healthy, with rare diseases or congenital anomalies. Society of lover and breeders of Karst Shepherd's Slovenia (DLVKOS) pays a great attention to genetic researches and collaborates with Biotechnical Faculty of Ljubljana; DLVKOS maintains a detailed register of it's representatives, including breeding combinations and health's issues bookmarks.