A particular dog lives in the area of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia existing there in a large number a thousand and more years past. Chroniclers recorded it and described in details yet in 1067 in a chronicle of the Bosnian Catholic church. This description of a mountain dog, as called by the bishop in Đakovo, Peter, in 1752, had been repeated in 1374 and 1752 in a chronicle of the diocese of Đakovo. The people have called it “tornjak” already a long time ago.
Yugoslav Canine Association opened a conditional pedigree certificate for it on 9 May 1981 and on 22 February 2006; the World Canine Organization recognized it as autochthonous breed of Bosnia and Herzegovina and Republic of Croatia under the name Bosnian - Herzegovinan – Croatian shepherd dog Tornjak.
Tornjak has a very nice appearance, genetically is very dominant, its body is strong and well-proportioned, movements are light and almost dignified. Bitches are 60 to 65 cm tall and males 65 to 70 cm while the color of hair is being two-color, three-color and multicolored.
The face is always brighter than dark body marks, look is specific, clear, self-confident, serious and calm; long hair with the one underneath is rich and complex as to protect from all adverse weather conditions, tail is covered plentifully by long hair, kept up like flag in the heat of the moment.
Tornjak is extremely resistant to diseases, undemanding for food and accommodation, and during snowy nights it keeps on lying on snow. It is steady and good-natured towards people, aggressive with caution towards wild animals and attackers to home, sheepfold, herd and owner. It is persistent in completing tasks entrusted with, understands easily and agrees to the owner’s will as well as training, incorruptible and distrustful towards unfamiliar.
