The tatra shepherd dog most likely originates from ancient shepherd dogs brought to Europe with asian immigrants several thousand years ago. It most likely arrived at the same time as the polish lowland sheepdog.
The large shepherds were used mainly to guard against predators as well as thieves, in particular during night time. The dogs were supposed to be able to not just warn against intruders but also to be able to protect the herd if needed. The very same guard instinct almost meant the end of the breed - during the occupation of the second World War all dogs that appeared threathening were shot - the large white dogs were easy to spot and completely fearless. Very few of them survived, but eventually breeders could re-create the breed of old.
Despite its colourful past, the tatra shepherd dog today is generally seen as having a milder temperament than most related breeds.

The tatra shepherd dog should have a compact and powerful body. It is important that it appears rectangular, but the males may have a slightly shorter body than the females. The boning is powerful but not heavy. The head is dry and proportionate to the body with a powerful muzzle. The unusually broad head, clearly marked stop and heavily pigmented eyelids sets the breed apart from other mountain dogs, as does the longer legs and more compact body.