Alabay – a priceless heritage of the Turkmen people

The end of October marks a significant date dedicated to the Alabay as an object of cultural heritage of the Turkmen people.

The Alabay, as one of the ancient elements representing the rich heritage of Turkmen land, became a symbol of the Ashgabat Asian Games 2017. In 2020, our country proposed an initiative to include the art of breeding Turkmen Alabays in UNESCO Representative List of Intangible Cultural Heritage, ensuring the preservation and popularization of the breed. Specific measures are being implemented for this purpose. To preserve the gene pool of Alabays, which are considered a cultural value, they cannot be exported abroad, especially renowned producers from well-known lines supported by dog breeders in various regions of the country: previously through clubs and now within an international structure called "Turkmen Alabays." With the emergence of this organization, infrastructure development began in the country – including building kennels, training centers for dogs, maintaining a pedigree book, tracking breeding stock, and establishing veterinary clinics.

The uniqueness of the breed was determined by human needs for which it was developed and by the climatic conditions in which this took place. That is why the Alabay easily withstands sudden weather changes, having adapted to a wide temperature range from heat to severe frost. Additionally, it can effortlessly cover ten kilometers a day and enjoys bath. "If a dog cannot stand up for itself, it has no right to be with the flock," say Turkmen shepherds. This principle has become one of the links in selective breeding efforts to preserve the breed. Representatives of this breed learn protection duties alongside their mothers as soon as they can run.

Trainers recognize that when raising a dog, they must cultivate its strong character without breaking it. Canine scientists note its friendliness towards younger family members; despite its formidable appearance, the Alabay remains a charming and good-natured playmate for children. However, these dogs do not tolerate obsequiousness or hypocritical attitudes; they ignore such "advances" and respond only to honesty and trust in relationships that resemble partnerships. Their "indifference" to living conditions and food does not stem from pride—if such a trait can be attributed to dogs—but from inner dignity. They do not ask but wait for their owners to provide food and water on their own. Thus, Alabays are referred to as "aristocrats with temperament" due to their character traits.