5 Things to Know About Tornjaks

AKC Group
Foundation Stock Service (Working group)

Weight
61-100 lbs.

Height
23-27 in.

Life Span
14 years

1. Key Characteristics of Tornjaks

The Tornjak is a large, strong dog with a well-proportioned, square-shaped body.

The nose is large and dark, and the dark eyes are almond-shaped. The triangular ears are set high; they fold down and hang by the face.

The dog’s double coat features long, straight, thick hair on the topcoat, and long, thick, woolly hair on the undercoat.

Coat color is parti-colored, and white is typically the dominant color, though solid swaths of black and tan may also appear.

2. Where Tornjaks Came From

This dog hails from Bosnia and Herzegovina. Actual written records of this breed date to the year 1067, making them very rare dogs.

The breed is thought to have descended from the Tibetan Mastiff and was at one point called the Kanis Montanus (translates to mountain dog). Tornjaks today are said to be unchanged from the original dogs.

The American Kennel Club added the breed to its registry in May 2012 under the Foundation Stock Service.

3. How Friendly Are Tornjaks?

When inside the home, Tornjaks are friendly and affectionate with their family members. They bark minimally indoors, but if they notice something new or different outside, expect a lot of barking.

Know that these dogs can be aggressive with people, animals and other dogs who are considered a threat to their property or family members.

They are smart dogs who learn quickly and can be trained, but they may be a little stubborn — these dogs are independent thinkers and are used to assessing a situation to make their own judgments.

They need a strong leader willing to train them and remain in command.

4. Is This the Right Dog for You?

Exercise Needs

HIGH: This breed needs daily exercise in the form of brisks walks, running and play. Ideally, they’d love a large, secure yard or land where they can run and roam.

Tornjaks need a lot of space indoors, so we don’t recommend getting one if you live in an apartment.

Grooming Needs

HIGH: Brush your Tornjak several times a week and more often on outdoor or working Tornjak dogs to prevent the long coat from matting.

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Check the coat for insects or debris when coming back from outdoor activities; also check the paws or ears. Bathing your Tornjak as needed.

And don’t forget to trim the nails, clean the ears and brush the teeth.

This video shows the playful nature of the Tornjak:

Health Problems

LOW: There are no notable genetic disorders common for the Tornjak.

Hip dysplasia has been seen in some Tornjaks, but it’s not common.

5. How to Adopt a Tornjak

Tornjaks are still considered a rare breed and are recorded in the AKC’s Foundation Stock Service. The breed will remain listed there until more dogs are present and registered in the U.S.

Finding a Tornjak will be difficult. If you contact a breeder, meet the dog parents first and look for signs that might indicate the breeder isn’t taking proper care of the dogs.

References