Tornjak
The Tornjak is described by the AKC as intelligent, friendly, courageous, originally from Croatia/Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Last updated: October 2026 · 5 sources · see sources
| Height | 23-28 inches [1] |
|---|---|
| Weight | 62-110 pounds [1] |
| Life expectancy | 12–14+ years [1] |
| Temperament | Intelligent / Friendly / Courageous [1] |
| AKC group | Foundation Stock Service [1] |
| Origin | Croatia/Bosnia and Herzegovina [1] |
| AKC popularity (2025) | No. 238 of 202 [2] |
| AKC status | Foundation Stock Service (not yet fully recognized) [1] |
Traits at a glance
Scores are the AKC's 1–5 breed trait ratings. [1]
Exercise needs
Options for exercise include play time in the backyard, preferably fenced, or walks several times a day. Exercise can also come in the form of indoor activities, like hide-and-seek, chasing a ball rolled along the floor, or learning new tricks. Certain outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, or retrieving balls or flying discs can provide a good outlet for expending energy. [1]
Grooming
Beyond regular weekly grooming, the occasional bath will keep your Tornjak clean and looking his best. Grooming can be a wonderful bonding experience for you and your dog. The strong, fast-growing nails should be trimmed regularly with a nail clipper or grinder to avoid overgrowth, splitting, and cracking. [1]
Health issues to budget for
Some dogs may be faced with health challenges in their lives, but the majority of Tornjaks are healthy dogs. Working with a responsible breeder, prospective owners can gain the education they need to learn about specific health concerns within the breed. [1]
Estimated costs
| Item | Estimate | Src |
|---|---|---|
| Typical vet bill for a large dog (median $640) | $308 – $1,224 | [3] |
| Emergency visit, large dog | $698 – $1,580 | [3] |
| Surgery when needed, large dog | $541 – $3,903 | [3] |
| Yearly cost of a dog, any breed (ASPCA 2021) | $1,391 | [4] |
| Average accident & illness insurance, dog (US 2025) | $836/year | [5] |
Breed-specific price data is rare. These figures are for dogs of this size or for the conditions above, not a quote for your pet.
Did you know?
- The AKC lists the Tornjak in its Foundation Stock Service, a record-keeping program for breeds that are not yet fully AKC-recognized. [1]
- It ranked No. 238 on the AKC's 2025 most-popular list. [2]
- Its nickname is the “Bosnian.” [1]
- The AKC lists Croatia/Bosnia and Herzegovina as the breed's country of origin. [1]
Good fit for
- ⚠️ Think twice: Anyone who hates vacuuming: AKC rates shedding 4/5
Common questions
How long do Tornjaks live?
The AKC lists a life expectancy of 12-14 years.
How big does a Tornjak get?
AKC breed information lists height 23-28 inches and weight 62-110 pounds.
How much are vet bills for a Tornjak?
Breed-specific bills are rare, so VetReceipt groups dogs by size. For large dogs like the Tornjak, a typical vet bill runs $308 – $1,224 (median $640). The AKC notes health screening for this breed; see the cost guides linked on this page.