Sarabi
Description
The Sarabi is a massive, ancient breed originally from Iran's Sarab County. They stand tall, often reaching up to 35 inches at the shoulder, and weigh between 110 and 198 pounds. Their tawny, cream, and brown double coat is medium-length, with a distinctive black mask and white chest markings that add to their striking appearance. This breed was bred to guard livestock, so their protective nature is deeply ingrained. Sarabis are calm and gentle with family but can be wary of strangers. They think independently, which sometimes looks like stubbornness, so they need a confident owner who sets clear rules. Despite their size, they move with surprising agility and speed, making them excellent guardians in a variety of climates thanks to their thick, dense coat.
Grooming
Sarabis have a medium-length double coat that sheds heavily during seasonal changes, especially in spring and fall. Regular brushing is essential to keep their coat healthy and reduce shedding inside your home. Use an undercoat rake to remove dead hair and prevent matting. Bathing every 4 to 6 weeks helps maintain coat cleanliness, but always blow-dry thoroughly to loosen dead undercoat and speed drying. - Brush 3 times weekly, increase frequency in shedding seasons - Use an undercoat rake to target loose fur - Bathe every 4–6 weeks, followed by blow-drying - Pay attention to the black mask and white chest markings to keep them clean Pro tip: A strong blow-dry session during spring and fall will drastically reduce loose hair and keep your Sarabi comfortable through shedding spikes.
Learn the Double routine:
→ Complete Double Grooming Guide
Walking
Sarabis need about 60 minutes of walking daily, ideally in a single session. They enjoy a steady pace that lets them explore scents but also allows for some brisk movement to burn energy. Because of their size, a leash with good control is important, especially in busy areas. Their moderate energy means they don’t require constant running but do appreciate a consistent routine. Example routine: - 10 minutes warm-up sniffing and slow walking - 40 minutes steady pace with occasional trotting - 10 minutes cool-down and social sniff time This approach balances physical exercise with mental engagement, helping your Sarabi stay calm and well-behaved at home.
Boarding
When boarding a Sarabi, provide a crate at least 48 inches long to accommodate their large frame comfortably. They thrive with daily exercise that includes calm decompression periods to avoid overstimulation. Staff should introduce themselves slowly and predictably, as Sarabis can be cautious around new people. Enrichment activities like puzzle feeders and quiet time help reduce stress. Their playstyle is gentle but deliberate; they prefer structured interaction over chaotic play. Staff notes should highlight the Sarabi’s need for clear boundaries and respect for their space, ensuring a smooth stay. Consistency in routine and calm handling will keep your Sarabi relaxed and happy while away from home.