With a thick, medium-length coat and a big-boned, muscular frame, the Caucasian shepherd is a huge working dog breed from Europe and Asia's Caucasus area. This breed was created to guard land and cattle, and it is extremely devoted to its family. It can also be stubborn and self-reliant. As a result, it's not always the greatest choice for a or someone who doesn't have a large enough house.
Breed Overview
GROUP:
HEIGHT: 23 to 30 inches
WEIGHT: 99 to 170 pounds
COAT: Medium-length double coat
COAT COLOR: Agouti and white, black and gray, cream, fawn, gray, grizzle, red, rust, sable, or white with/without white markings, piebald, or brindle markings
LIFE SPAN: 10 to 12 years
TEMPERAMENT: Loyal, courageous, protective
HYPOALLERGENIC: No
ORIGIN: Europe/Asia
Characteristics of the Caucasian Shepherd
Caucasian shepherds are known for their vigilant and protective nature. Their demeanor is heavily influenced by their guardian breeding. They are apprehensive of strangers yet dedicated to their loved ones.
| Affection Level | Medium |
| Friendliness | Low |
| Kid-Friendly | Medium |
| Pet-Friendly | Low |
| Exercise Needs | Medium |
| Playfulness | Low |
| Energy Level | Medium |
| Trainability | Medium |
| Intelligence | High |
| Tendency to Bark | Low |
| Amount of Shedding | High |
History of the Caucasian Shepherd
For millennia, dogs that look like the Caucasian shepherd have roamed the mountains of Europe and Asia. They were traditionally used to protect property and animals from trespassers and predators like wolves and bears.
The appearance of these canines varied depending on where they came from. Within the breed, there are still two types: the Mountain type (with a bigger body and longer coat) and the Steppe type (with a shorter body and shorter coat) (lighter body and shorter coat).
In the early 1900s, Soviet breeders began selective breeding among these dogs. Strength, confidence, good hearing and eyesight, and a weather-proof coat were among the traits they hoped to breed for. The breed is still uncommon, particularly in North America. It's part of the American Kennel Club's Foundation Stock Service, which maintains purebred breeding records.
Caucasian Shepherd Care
Although Caucasian shepherds do not require much activity, they do require early and continuous training and socializing. Their grooming is pretty simple, but owing to their big size, it can be time consuming.
Exercise
Aim to give your dog at least an hour of activity every day with walks, yard romping, hiking, fetch, and other activities. Puzzle toys might also help you burn off some cerebral energy. While this is not a high-energy breed, it does have good stamina, which is useful if you enjoy lengthy walks or excursions. Due to its protective attitude and propensity for aggressiveness toward strangers and even other dogs, always keep your Caucasian shepherd on a leash or in a securely secured area.
Grooming
The Caucasian shepherd's coat length varies. You'll probably only have to brush your dog once or twice a week if he has a shorter coat. Longer coats, on the other hand, may require regular brushing to keep up with the loose fur and avoid tangles and mats. Expect increased shedding during some seasons, such as the spring and fall, when you'll need to brush more frequently.
Depending on how dirty your dog becomes, a bath should be given once a month. Also, inspect its nails once a month to determine if they need to be trimmed. Check for wax accumulation, dirt, and other irregularities in its ears at least once a week. Every day, it brushes its teeth.
Furthermore, this breed has a high amount of drooling. So have a towel on available to wipe drool off your dog's fur, the floor, furniture, and any other surfaces where it could fall.
Training
When it comes to training, the Caucasian shepherd is bright, but it can also be obstinate and strong-willed. When the dog is a smaller size, begin training and socializing as soon as feasible.
Always employ positive training techniques. Also, be consistent with your orders so that your dog learns that negative conduct will not be tolerated. Professional dog trainers and behaviorists may assist owners who are new to the breed with training and socialization, as well as calm the breed's protective drive, which can lead to aggressiveness if left uncontrolled.
Common Health Problems
Overall, the Caucasian shepherd is a generally healthy breed, but it is prone to some hereditary health issues, including:
- Heart problems
- (eyelids rolling too far inward)
Diet and Nutrition
Fresh water should always be available to your dog. Also, feed a high-quality, nutritionally balanced dog food. One designed for big breeds is good, and two measured meals each day are normal. However, you should always consult your veterinarian about the sort of food and the dosage. To avoid overeating, keep an eye on snacks and other excess food.
Where to Adopt or Buy a Caucasian Shepherd
Caucasian shepherds are uncommon in North America, though not impossible to come across. To discover a dog in need of a home, visit local animal shelters and rescue organizations. Get your name on a breed wait list at these organizations if at all feasible. Expect to pay between $1,000 and $3,000 for a puppy from a reputable breeder, however this can vary greatly.
For more information to help connect you with a Caucasian shepherd, check out:
- Caucasian Shepherd Club of America
- Caucasian Ovcharka Rescue Rehome
Caucasian Shepherd Overview
Loyal to family
Typically not a problem barker
Excellent guard dog
Can become aggressive if not properly trained
Needs a lot of space
High shedder and drooler
More Dog Breeds and Further Research
Make sure to conduct enough of research before bringing a Caucasian shepherd home to ensure that the breed is a good fit for your lifestyle. Consult breeders, rescue organizations, trustworthy breeders, and vets.
If you’re interested in similar breeds, check out:
There’s a whole world of potential out there—with a little research, you can find the right one to bring home!
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Are Caucasian shepherds good family dogs?
Caucasian shepherds, with proper training and socialization, may be a good fit for a household with older children, as they are generally very loyal to their owners. However, if you have small children, they are not the greatest choice because to their enormous size and tendency for violence.
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Are Caucasian shepherds aggressive?
When they detect a threat, Caucasian shepherds' protective attitude can turn aggressive. Although training and socialization are essential for this breed, their protective nature can be tough to overcome.
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Are Caucasian shepherds rare?
Caucasian shepherds are a relatively rare breed, especially in North America. You might have to wait some time to find one at a rescue organization or breeder, depending on where you live.
