Turko-Istrian Sheepdog

Considered extinct by most authorities, the Istrian Turko Sheepdog can reportedly still be found in some rural parts of the region, but it is uncertain whether these examples are pure. There are numerous theories concerning the Turko's ancestry, from it being of Italian, Turkish or Austrian origin, to this dog representing an ancient indigenous Croatian breed. The Istrian Turko Sheepdog is the bearded variety of the old South-Istrian Herder, believed by some to had been developed through matings with the Croatian Sheepdog and the Istrian Rough-Coated Hound. Since the breed was most common in those parts of Istria inhabitated by the Vlachs and the Romanian minority, it can be assumed that the Turko Sheepdog was initially a result of introducing the blood of the Aromun and Mioritic sheepdogs into the South-Istrian Herder breed, before becoming a separate strain. The breed has locally been known as Cic (pronounced Cheech) for centuries, but the "Turko" part of the breed's name is still somewhat of a mystery, since it leads some to believe that its origins are rooted in Turkey, whereas others suggest that it refers to the Bosnian muslim immigrants which have brought their Bosnian Barak Hounds with them to Istria. Another theory suggests the possibility of the Bergamasco influence, but this hasn't been proven. Whatever the case may be, the Istrian Turko Sheepdog was a common and popular working dog, existing in sufficient numbers in its home region, but also in southern parts of Slovenia, Croatia and northern Dalmatia up until the late 1800's, when it became fairly rare. Occasional sightings of the breed continued well into the 20th century, but after the 2nd World War only a small number of Turko dogs could be found.

Described as a tireless worker, the Istrian Turko Sheepdog is a rugged and resilient breed, employed to guard and drive livestock, as well as an alert watchdog. Slightly smaller than the South-Istrian Herder, the Turko is a deep-chested, straight-backed and agile dog, with a strong body and sturdy legs. The tail can be either docked or left in its natural state, although some dogs are also born bobtailed. The majority of dogs have drop-ears, but erect-eared examples, as well as specimens with semi-pricked ears exist. The coat is dense and harsh, coming in a range of lengths, from fairly short-haired to richly coated dogs, but always curly and shaggy in type, this being the point of distinction from the standard Istrian Sheepdog breed.

The most common and valued colouring is white, with or without darker patches, but grey, yellow and fawn examples, sometimes with a black saddle are encountered. Average height is around 20 inches.