Caucasian Shepherd

Meet the Caucasian Shepherd, a majestic guardian who’s the epitome of a watchful protector, ready to go to any lengths to keep you safe- even if that means switching into threatening gear.

Country of Origin

Georgia
Breed Group

Sheperd
Height

Male 28-30 In
Female 28-26 In
Weight

Male 110-200 Ib
Female 100-170 Ib
Life Span

10-12 years

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In a Nutshell

The Caucasian Shepherd embodies all the qualities necessary for an outstanding guard dog, diligently protecting herds and farm animals from intruders and predators for countless years – brave, alert, intelligent, and independent. True to its nature, the Caucasian Shepherd may exhibit a tendency towards aggression when confronted with perceived threats, such as that poor neighbor who was only trying to bring his morning paper.

However, with its loved ones, this breed is remarkably sensitive, devoted, and loving. While interactions with other pets and small children may be a bit less seamless, the Caucasian Shepherd’s unique charm shines through. Despite being categorized as a breed with a relatively low energy level, this dog still requires a spacious living environment and some long daily walks. And here’s a tidbit for potential pet owners: the Caucasian Shepherd isn’t a big barker. However, brace yourself for some shedding and drooling challenges – but hey, that’s all part of its charm.

Life With a Caucasian Shepherd

Low (1) High (5)

Energy level

Trainability Level

Amount of Shedding

Tendency of Barking

Exercise Needs

Kid Friendly

Pet Friendly

Looks & Personality

The thick, long, and richly colored coat of the Caucasian Shepherd cannot be ignored. This dense fur not only gives them an impressive appearance but also enables them to maintain body temperature even in low temperatures. The coat typically comes in brown-gray colors, often combined with black. On the chest, a large white spot is common, extending towards the legs. Additionally, the Caucasian Shepherd features dark eyes, a prominent black nose, and large, sturdy feet.

As a first-class guard dog, the Caucasian Shepherd possesses a stable character, marked by loyalty and self-confidence. However, it’s important to note that without proper training and education from a young age, this breed may exhibit territorial, uncontrollable, and aggressive tendencies. Their notably high physical and mental resilience allows them to adapt even to challenging conditions.

Common Health Problems

While the Caucasian Shepherd is generally regarded as a healthy breed, its colossal size places it at risk for several health issues. These include joint problems attributed to its weight, stomach upset due to its tendency to overeat, and susceptibility to various heart and eye diseases.

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A tip from a vet

While the Caucasian Shepherd requires a substantial amount of food owing to its size, it's essential to exercise caution and avoid overfeeding. Ensure that you adhere to the recommended daily food intake and maintain a routine of regular daily physical activity. Overfeeding can lead to excessive strain on their large bodies, potentially resulting in joint and skeletal problems.

A tip from a trainer

The Caucasian Shepherd is undeniably intelligent, yet their stubborn nature and inclination to stand their ground during training make them better suited for experienced owners. Initiating their education from an early age is crucial, and exposing them to a variety of animals, people, and situations can contribute to a well-rounded and well-behaved companion.

Did You Know

In the past, the practice of cropping the ears of Caucasian Shepherds was commonplace; however, this controversial custom is now prohibited in many countries.

Caucasian Shepherd dogs have no fear. While guarding herds in the Caucasus region, they are capable of taking down even wolves intending to prey on the flock, and historically, they have been known to assist in bear hunting.

For those seeking a well-trained Caucasian Shepherd, it’s imperative to commence the training process during their puppyhood.

In The News

Meet Kadabom Haider! This one-and-a-half-year-old Caucasian Shepherd has already achieved a remarkable record weight of 110 kg, earning him the prestigious title of ‘the largest Caucasian Shepherd in the world.’ With massive legs and a sizable nose, Haider boasts unique body dimensions attributed to a distinctive genetic makeup. He resides in an air-conditioned apartment with his owner year-round, consuming 3 kg of meat daily. Additionally, Haider has six puppies, who were relocated to another house to ensure their safety, as his sheer size could pose a risk of accidentally crushing them.

The History Behind the Breed

The Caucasian Shepherd, also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka, is a large and ancient dog breed originating from the Caucasus Mountains region, primarily found in countries like Georgia, Armenia, and Azerbaijan. The breed’s appearance varies slightly depending on its specific region of origin; those from mountainous areas exhibit longer and heavier fur, while those from flat areas have a lighter body with thinner fur.

Historically, the Caucasian Shepherd played a vital role in aiding local shepherds and farmers by protecting farm and pasture animals from formidable predators such as wolves and bears. Adapted to harsh terrain and climate conditions, the breed’s history of safeguarding livestock has honed its protective instincts. Only in the 20th century did the Caucasian Shepherd begin to garner recognition and popularity beyond its native region, eventually transitioning from a working dog to a cherished family pet. In 1996, it earned recognition as a distinct breed by the American Kennel Club.

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