- Caucasian Shepherd Dog Breed: Everything You Need to Know
Everything You Need to Know About
Caucasian Shepherd / Caucasian Mountain Dog
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Table of Contents
Caucasian Shepherd Dog General Information
The Caucasian Shepherd is a dog of many names: Caucasian Mountain Dog, Caucasian Ovcharka, Russian Bear Dog, Caucasian Wolfhound, and Caucasian Sheep Dog.
There is no dog better than a Caucasian if you want to add a huge, fluffy protector to your family. With its larger-than-life appearance, no one will dare to even look at your home or family with ill intent.
The Caucasian Shepherd dog is highly territorial, unwilling to back down from battling even the most threatening creatures. It’s not a breed to be taken lightly, nor one for the faint of heart.
Caucasian Shepherd history dates back to them playing their part as a guardian dog for centuries, protecting properties from trespassers, saving livestock from attacks, and more.
Will its needs and nature will mesh with your lifestyle and family? In this article, we look at everything one should consider before taking home this Mountain Dog.
Characteristics of a
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Keep these important points in mind when thinking about welcome a Caucasian Shepherd into your life.
Temperament
Caucasian Shepherd dogs have come a long way from the Caucasus Mountains, where they were trained to protect livestock, homes, and people from wild animals like coyotes and bears. This is why they still carry a strong instinct to guard their owners.
This breed is a fiercely loyal one. They are independent, aloof, and courageous. When faced with a fight against a dangerous creature, they won’t back down and will take whatever comes head on.
Because the Caucasian Shepherd Dog used to live on their own in the wild, they don’t like being told what to do. As highly intelligent canines, they will pick up basic commands rapidly when they want to.
They will need a person with a patient, firm hand and frequent socialization to keep their fierce nature under control.
A great tip here is to start socializing them with different dog breeds and public places like parks from a young age, so they can learn to grow up more calmly.
Energy Level
This Russian Bear Dog needs regular exercise; The breed is quite prone to obesity.
However, their natural energy level is low, so they may need professional help from a vet to set an appropriate diet and exercise regimen.
Don’t ever let the Caucasian Shepherd just sit around. Take them for a nice walk at least once per day. Otherwise, their laid-back nature can cause health issues.
This Russian Bear Dog needs regular exercise; The breed is quite prone to obesity.
However, their natural energy level is low, so they may need professional help from a vet to set an appropriate diet and exercise regimen.
Don’t ever let the Caucasian Shepherd just sit around. Take them for a nice walk at least once per day. Otherwise, their laid-back nature can cause health issues.
Size
Known as a giant dog breed, these canines are huge in size.
Caucasian Shepherd size depends on where their ancestors came from; A dog with history living in mountain ranges will grow to be more muscular as opposed to other, leaner dogs from other terrains.
As such, keep in mind that individual dogs within the same breed can range slightly above or below the average sizes.
- Weight:
Caucasian Mountain Dog weight averages around 99 – 170 pounds (45 – 77 kg), with males lying in the 110 – 220 lbs (50 – 100 kg) range and females usually in the range of 100 – 180 lbs (45.3 – 82 kg).
- Weight:
- Height:
The average Caucasian Shepherd’s height is around 23 – 33 in (58.4 – 84 cm).
- Height:
- Length:
In general, their body length is between 34 – 43 in (86.3 – 110 cm).
- Length:
Average Size Chart
Weight
Female
Male
45.3 – 82 kg
100 – 180 lbs
50 – 100 kg
110 – 220 lbs
Height
Female
Male
58.4 – 84 cm
23 – 33 in
58.4 – 84 cm
23 – 33 in
Length
Female
Male
86.3 – 110 cm
34 – 43 in
86.3 – 110 cm
34 – 43 in
Weight
Female
45.3 – 82 kg
100 – 180 lbs
Male
50 – 100 kg
110 – 220 lbs
Height
Female
58.4 – 84 cm
23 – 33 in
Male
58.4 – 84 cm
23 – 33 in
Length
Female
86.3 – 110 cm
34 – 43 in
Male
86.3 – 110 cm
34 – 43 in
Trainability / Intelligence
These strong-willed dogs need strict training to discourage any “ruff” behavior. They don’t work well in groups, and most of their training needs to be one-on-one. However, don’t completely isolate them for training — you’ll still need to socialize your dog.
It is important that they mix with other animals from the start, and to be patient with them during the training process.
You can also hire a professional if you are uncertain at all about the task. It’s essential to train a dog of this size to stay down without jumping on people, and to teach them to be calm to humans you introduce them to. Their huge stature can knock someone down easily, even by accident.
Other Pets / Children
- Other pets:
Since they are guard dogs by nature, they tend to be aggressive towards strangers and don’t mix well with other dogs until trained otherwise.
- Other pets:
It’s best that this dog is your only dog, and don’t worry — this will not make them lonely.
- Children:
Caucasian Shepherds are very loyal and kind to the people they know and care about, including children. They make very friendly home pets.
- Children:
The critical part here is to train them from a young age to socialize with different people and animals, especially your family and friends who visit often. Children who are new to this Bear Dog should never be left alone in their presence, and instead be able to socialize in a calm environment with supervision.
As they are a protective breed, they might see the rough play by children as a danger to their home and people and launch an attack.
Even in the case of well-trained dogs, their huge size and temperament can cause an issue quickly.
Shedding / Coat
The Caucasian Shepherd Ovcharka undergoes heavy seasonal shedding once every year.
Caucasian Shepherd shedding can be managed by bathing and brushing them regularly and thoroughly. During shedding season, it is recommended to brush them once daily.
However, bathing and brushing at home can prove problematic due to their large size. It’s most common to take this breed to a professional groomer who can accommodate the large size.
The Caucasian Shepherd Ovcharka undergoes heavy seasonal shedding once every year.
Caucasian Shepherd shedding can be managed by bathing and brushing them regularly and thoroughly. During shedding season, it is recommended to brush them once daily.
However, bathing and brushing at home can prove problematic due to their large size. It’s most common to take this breed to a professional groomer who can accommodate the large size.
Grooming / Care
The Caucasian Ovcharka has a long, luxurious coat that needs to be brushed at least 2 – 3 times per week.
These fierce dogs shed quite a bit, and the regular brushing helps manage their shedding.
Clean your dog’s teeth 2 – 3 times per week, either whether with brushing or a different treatment.
Clip the nails regularly as this breed’s nails grow fast and strong.
Wipe away any drool, and in their ears: clean ear wax and debris buildup to prevent ear infection.
Bathe the Caucasian Shepherd as necessary or as comfortable. The recommended number would be 2 – 3 times per week.
Common Health Issues / Veterinary needs
The Caucasian Ovcharka dog is at risk of hip dysplasia and cataracts. They can also get heart problems due to obesity. They must be exercised regularly, provided with proper nutrition, and be taken them for regular checkups with the vet.
Once these giant dogs become lazy, it is hard to get them moving again. They are vulnerable to obesity which can cause health problems in the heart, joints, bones, and more. The average Caucasian Shepherd lifespan is around 10 – 12 years.
Caucasian Mountain Dog Genetic Health Issues:
- Hip dysplasia
- Cataracts
- Obesity
Nutrition
The Caucasian Mountain Dog needs to be fed a diet specifically made for big dogs.
When in doubt about food, consult your veterinarian or another professional about your dog’s diet in accordance with their size.
Dog’s dietary needs change as they grow. It is recommended to give them smaller, frequent meals so they don’t bloat. Make sure to stick to the prescribed diet so your dog doesn’t develop any health issues like obesity, but still gets enough nutrition throughout the day.
The Caucasian Mountain Dog needs to be fed a diet specifically made for big dogs.
When in doubt about food, consult your veterinarian or another professional about your dog’s diet in accordance with their size.
Dog’s dietary needs change as they grow. It is recommended to give them smaller, frequent meals so they don’t bloat. Make sure to stick to the prescribed diet so your dog doesn’t develop any health issues like obesity, but still gets enough nutrition throughout the day.
First Time Owner?
Russian Bear Dog is a bit on the aggressive side. It doesn’t like strangers and is only loving towards familiar faces. As such, it requires a lot of training.
This makes the Caucasian Mountain dog unsuitable for novice pet owners.
If you have never handled a pet before, it would be best to go with another dog breed that is easier to train and handle. These mountain descendants need a firm hand to remain calm and respect the dog’s boundaries.
Special Needs
• Space / Big Home
The Russian bear dog needs a lot of room for its 100+ lbs (50+ kg) body. Keeping them in a tiny apartment is near impossible, and otherwise not recommended.
In addition to a spacious home, a wide yard is also required for the Caucasian Ovcharka to freely roam around in.
This breed originates from the mountains, where they used to roam around in the great outdoors, living in the wild.
So, they need space not just to sit and exist but also to wander around. A roomy outdoor space is practically a must when getting this breed.
Other Things to Consider
• Socialization
You need to start training the Caucasian Shepherd puppy as soon as you bring it home. The Caucasian Mountain Dog is not friendly to unknown faces, even if they’re your immediate family.
They need extensive socialization with close family and friends that are bound to visit often.
They also need to be calmly socialized with pets and other animals from a young age, so they can learn to recognize small creatures without terrorizing them.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog FAQ
How Much Do Caucasian Ovcharka Puppies Cost?
This rare breed is a bit pricey.
Caucasian Shepherd price typically ranges between $1,000 to $3,000 depending on the type and rarity of the fur, as the dog is found in several coat colors.
Also, different breeders sell at different prices which may vary with geography and the quality of the parents. Check with a few breeders to compare health status and prices.
Are Caucasian Shepherds Legal In The U.S.?
Yes. Though the Caucasian Ovcharka is relatively new to the country, it is legal in all parts of America.
Are Caucasian Shepherds Aggressive?
Yes. There is a reason this breed is also known as Russian Bear Dog and Caucasian Wolf Hound.
Its ancestors have been bred as watchdogs and a protectors, making it natural for it to become aggressive in certain situations.
This canine thrives on solitude and can get aggressive in the presence of strangers, other pets, or crowds. That being said, it can be trained to remain calm.
Caucasian Shepherd Pros and Cons
Pros
- Great watch dog / guard dog
- Perfect for solitary living
- Great for living in mountains, forests, and other wild areas
Cons
- Unsuitable near kids or other pets
- Unsuitable for cities & crowds
- Needs lots of outdoor space to roam freely
- Prone to obesity if not properly monitored and exercised
- Can be difficult to socialize
Care Guide
