Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Originating across the Caucasus region (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, southern Russia), these dogs guarded flocks and homesteads from wolves, bears, and raiders. In the 20th century, types were gathered and standardized (often under “Caucasian Ovcharka”), emphasizing size, weatherproof coat, and fearless, territorial temperament. Today they are recognized by FCI (Group 2, Molossoid—Mountain type) and several North American registries (e.g., UKC; AKC FSS), kept as estate guardians and loyal companions in experienced hands.

A formidable, rectangular Molosser with dense double coat and heavy bone.

• Weight: 100–170+ lb (45–77+ kg)
• Height: Males ~27–30 in (68–75 cm); females ~25–28 in (64–70 cm)
• Coat Type: Double coat; varieties from short to long; abundant undercoat
• Coat Colors: Wide range—gray, fawn, red, cream, white, brindle, pied; often dark mask
• Distinctive Physical Traits: Huge head with strong muzzle, thick neck, deep forechest, powerful hindquarters, bushy tail (carried low or over back), deliberate ground-covering gait; cold-hardy

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Low trimming, high de-shedding during coat blows.

• Brushing: 2×/week; daily during spring/fall coat blow (line-brush to the skin; undercoat rake)
• Bathing: Every 6–8 weeks or as needed; fully dry dense undercoat to prevent hot spots
• Ears/Teeth/Nails: Clean ears weekly; brush teeth 2–3×/week; trim nails every 2–4 weeks
• Pants/Fringe Focus: Tail base, breeches, behind ears, ruff
• Shedding: Heavy seasonally; moderate otherwise
• Grooming Note (Canada): Ear cropping/tail docking are restricted or discouraged in many provinces—confirm local policies

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Moderate, joint-friendly work; avoid heat and repetitive pounding.

• Daily Duration: 45–75 minutes total (split calm walks + training/enrichment)
• Great Activities: Power walking, hiking on soft surfaces, carting/draft at slow pace, scent games, structured boundary/perimeter training
• Climate Notes: Heat-sensitive—exercise at cool hours, provide shade/water; coat protects against cold

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Strong, independent, and handler-sensitive—clarity, consistency, and management are everything.

• Approach: Positive reinforcement; short, purposeful sessions; avoid harsh corrections that damage trust
• Focus Areas: Leash neutrality, reliable recall, impulse control (doors/visitors/livestock), rock-solid place/settle, quiet on cue
• Socialization: Early, controlled exposure to people/dogs/environments; aim for neutrality (not forced friendliness)
• Management: Secure 6-ft+ fencing, visitor protocols, and muzzle training for cooperative vet/groom care

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Grow slow; keep lean for joints and longevity.

• Food Type: Large/giant-breed formula or balanced fresh diet for giants
• Daily Quantity: ~4–7 cups/day total (varies by food/dog), split into two meals
• Add-Ons: Omega-3s (EPA/DHA) for skin/joints; joint support (green-lipped mussel/glucosamine) for adults
• Bloat Safety: Deep-chested—avoid heavy exercise 60–90 min before/after meals; consider slow feeders and discuss prophylactic gastropexy (GDV) with your vet

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Temperament, transparency, and support matter—so do bylaws/insurance.

• Breeders: Choose preservation breeders (FCI/UKC/AKC FSS) who provide orthopedic/eye (± heart/thyroid) results, stable temperaments, and lifetime take-back
• Adoption: Guardian/giant-breed rescues; ask about behavior with strangers/other dogs and fence needs
• Canadian Resources: Not widely CKC-recognized; verify municipal/provincial bylaws & insurance for guardian breeds; join provincial working/obedience clubs (ON/BC/QC/AB) for community

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A robust mountain guardian with size-related risks—health testing is essential.

• Orthopedic: Hip and elbow dysplasia, cruciate ligament tears, osteochondrosis in fast growers
• Eyes/Skin: Entropion/ectropion; hot spots if undercoat remains damp
• Cardiac/Endocrine: Dilated cardiomyopathy rarely reported; hypothyroidism occurs in some lines
• GI: Gastric dilatation–volvulus (bloat/GDV) risk
• Other: Obesity/heat intolerance; ear infections (moisture)
• Life Expectancy: 10–12 years
• Recommended Testing (breeders): Hips/elbows (OFA/FCI), CAER eye exam, cardiac evaluation as advised; disclose thyroid status and GDV family history

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Are Caucasian Shepherds good family dogs?
Yes—in experienced homes with early socialization, clear rules, and supervision due to size/guardian instincts.

Do Caucasian Shepherds shed a lot?
Yes—heavy seasonal shedding. Daily de-shedding during coat blow helps.

Are Caucasian Shepherds hypoallergenic?
No. They are not hypoallergenic.

How much exercise does a Caucasian Shepherd need?
About 45–75 minutes daily of low-impact walks, training, and enrichment.

Are Caucasian Shepherds good apartment dogs?
Generally not ideal—possible only with strong routines, secure management, and ample outdoor time.

Do Caucasian Shepherds drool?
Moderately—especially after drinking or exertion. Keep towels handy.

Can they live with other dogs?
Often dog-selective/territorial; careful introductions and management are essential.

Caucasian Shepherd vs Tibetan Mastiff—what’s different?
Both are guardian giants; Caucasians are typically heavier-boned, denser-coated mountain types with strong territoriality, while Tibetan Mastiffs are rangier with nocturnal patrol habits. Lines vary—meet breeders’ dogs.

What health tests should breeders do?
Hips/elbows, CAER eyes, and (as advised) cardiac/thyroid screening; discuss family history of bloat/GDV and orthopedic issues.

How do I manage visitors safely?
Use leashes, place/settle, gates, and rehearsed introductions; prioritize neutrality and never leave strangers unsupervised with the dog.

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