|
INTRODUCTION:
The Tornjaks belong to one of about fifty existing but distinctly
separate breeds of hearding dogs (separate by nature of
its shape). Originally, dogs of this breed were found over
the mountain regions of Asia and Europe as well as in the
lowlands inhibited by pastoral nomads. The primary function
of all these breeds was to guard flocks, mostly of sheep.
In time, this purpose also become its sole lucrative function.
According to FCI's current classification, the Tornjak is
a typical representative of the Group I.
The Tornjak's early population was a textbook's example
of an autochthonous breed, represented by series of local
types over a widely spread area. This population developed
naturally out of genetic base brought to Dinarides (Dinara
mountain ranges) by migrations, trade and wars, interbred
with already present breeds. Through the centuries, the
Tornjak adapted its function to the natural environment
as well as to human needs, customs and aesthetic criteria.
If the sources reffered to by cynologists are to be believed,
a similar breed of dog was present in Dinarides in Roman
times. Later, this breed was accepted by peoples coming
to the region to guard flocks or to guard and fight in wars.
Such ancient times are not important to us today. Later
hictorical changes were remarkably tempestuous and ful of
impact.
|
