Caucasian Shepherd Dog: breed characteristics. Feeding and care

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is a very strong animal. It is large in size. Otherwise, this breed is called aboriginal or Caucasian wolfhound. This beast is the perfect guard. Today we will take a closer look at these powerful and large dogs.

Powerful Caucasian Shepherd Dogs belong to the ancient breeds, which once passed a very strict selection for the right to be close to humans. If we start from archaeological data, then we can find out that the age of these individuals is at least 2500 years.

It is precisely known that the ancestors of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are Tibetan Great Danes. Before our era, they were the true embodiment of the classic molossians, as they were real heavyweights. Moreover, these animals have always shown endless loyalty towards their master. The Caucasians have always treated their enemies mercilessly.

It is believed that dogs of this breed came to the territory of China when the emperor was presented with such a puppy. Representatives of this breed were immediately appreciated in Asia. The Caucasians aroused great interest there and attracted a lot of attention. Further, these dogs spread rather quickly. First they got to Mongolia, Mesopotamia, and then through the Caucasian territories they penetrated into Rome and Greece.

There is also a special mythical version of the origin of strong and fluffy guard dogs. According to her, the Caucasians managed to resurrect the ruler of Armenia Ara the Beautiful, licking his wounds. Around this time, there was a division of the shepherd dogs into Caucasian and Central Asian.It should be noted that the first copies were selected especially rigidly. Their working qualities were taken into account.

Central Asian individuals were left in their native territory and almost did not change over time. There is some evidence that, unlike the Central Asians, who could protect the territory in whole groups, Caucasians could cope with such tasks alone or in pairs.

The Caucasian lands are very beautiful. In those parts, nature is truly beautiful. However, the climatic conditions in the Caucasus are far from ideal. In addition, mountainous areas, which can be very difficult to pass, have become "transit" routes for traders and conquerors. The ancestors of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs tempered their character in such difficult circumstances for them. Their firmness was passed on to the next generations. Living in a traffic intersection has had a significant impact on many of the characteristics and distinctive features of Caucasians.

Caucasian wolfhounds performed functions harsh and unwavering guards... Besides, they took part in military campaigns. There is something in the character traits of today's Caucasians that they inherited from their ancestors - fierce hatred of the wolf and stranger.

At that time, there were several types of such dogs. Each of the nationalities had their own dog. At the unofficial level, a similar division takes place today. But such animals have riveted the attention of Russian breeders and not only. It was at that moment that the direct work began on the transformation of the aboriginal breed into the factory one.

Over the years, work has been carried out to improve the qualities and characteristics of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs. Dogs have been made more livable in urban settings. True, unfortunately, not the best quality breeding, coupled with an unfavorable urban environment, did their job and the life of Caucasians was seriously reduced. Today, Caucasian Shepherd Dogs live on average no more than 10-12 years, although in the old days this period was longer.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are very popular today because they have excellent watchdog qualities. Before you start such a loyal and fearless security guard, you should familiarize yourself with his description and the standard that he must meet.

Let's get acquainted with the main characteristics inherent in the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs.

• The weight of adult males can reach 50 kg. Bitches are lighter - on average, 45 kg, but there are also heavier individuals.
• Males of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog at the withers are 68 cm tall, and females are 64 cm and above.
• As for the color of the coat, various shades of gray are allowed, as well as gray-brown with red spots. There are also individuals of cream-colored wool. The standard permissible is not too bright and noticeable tiger colors. Pure black or white colors are considered undesirable. The lips and eyelids of Caucasians have a characteristic rim of a dark shade, regardless of the main color of the animal's coat.
• As mentioned above, the life span of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs was shortened when they began to adapt to the conditions of life in the city. At the moment, on average, such animals live up to 12 years. Of course, a lot here depends on proper dog care and balanced nutrition.Under ideal conditions, a pet can live longer.
• The character of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs is very loyal. They can get along well with children. Usually such severe guard animals are loyal to the pranks of the little ones. True, children should be allowed to the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs only under the supervision of adults. Caucasians are wary of other animals, and hostile to strangers.
• The intelligence level of these animals is at a fairly high level. However, it can be difficult to train them as they can be lazy. And the character of the Caucasians as a whole is not very obedient. This is very important to consider if you are planning to acquire such an animal.
• The guarding potential of these dogs is excellent. It is the protection that is the main purpose of the representatives of this breed. Caucasian Shepherd Dogs can, without hesitation and hesitation, enter into battle with the enemy, regardless of his strength.

As you can see, the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs have many very important features that should be borne in mind by a person planning to have such a powerful dog. Now let's look at what standards for the exterior of these animals exist.

• Head Caucasians are usually square and rather massive. The skull has a wedge-shaped structure. The brow ridges are well developed and visible.
• Muzzle Caucasians are very wide. The transition to the muzzle from the forehead is smooth, gradual. The nasal back is always perfectly flat and straight. The nose lobe of Caucasians has pronounced nostrils.
• Jaws Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are very massive and even look scary. A characteristic feature for these individuals is the presence of 42 teeth. The canines are large and the bite is firm.
• Eyes Caucasians are not too large and have a rounded shape. They are set fairly wide and deeply set. The color of the iris can range from light hazel to hazel. The eyelids are well defined and prominent on the muzzle.
• Ears in representatives of this breed, they are set high and wide. They have a characteristic triangular shape. Can be cropped or uncropped.
• Neck Caucasians are characterized by a low set, massiveness and noticeable muscularity. The scruff is pronounced.
• Body in Caucasian Shepherd Dogs it corresponds to the Molossian type. It is muscular and well balanced. The chest in these individuals is quite wide, the back is straight, the withers are pronounced. The croup is strong and firm, slightly sloping towards the tail.
• Tail shape in the described dogs it resembles a sickle. There are also animals with a ring tail. This limb is set high, has a great length.
• Limbs are characterized by an average length. They are straight, have well-developed muscles. The bones are wide. Feet are usually slightly round and very firm.
• Wool Caucasians cannot be called tender and soft. She is usually tough and rather rough. The hair is straight and not very close to the body of the animal. The undercoat is solid and abundant. Slightly longer on tail, neck and hind legs.

Many people treat Caucasian Shepherd Dogs with great caution and apprehension. This is not surprising, because these dogs inspire fear by their very appearance. They are large, powerful, with well-developed muscles. Their faces don't look cute and playful.

It is necessary to approach the upbringing of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog with all responsibility, respect and love. Only if this condition is met can one expect full dedication and adequate behavior from the dog. The following features are characteristic of Caucasians.

• Friendliness. Caucasians are big fans of being in a company. Even if the giant lives in the courtyard of a private house, it must at least sometimes be allowed into the house. You should devote more time to the animal. The dog should feel your love. If there is no constant contact of such a dog with a person, then friendly relations will not work.
• Courage... The name of these dogs alone suggests that they were bred specifically to protect sheep and protect human property. Representatives of this breed are ideal guards and watchmen. They are always on the alert and ready to rush to protect the owners.
• Equilibrium... Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are very smart. From an early age, they understand that their task is to protect the home. It is extremely rare for Caucasians to demonstrate unreasonable aggression and anger. Of course, we mean those individuals who were raised in respect and love. Caucasians are allowed to pamper without worrying about the fact that they will cease to normally guard the home. On the contrary, praise and rewards are only for the benefit of these animals.
• Activity... Before you go shopping for a Caucasian Shepherd Dog, you should take into account that the animal is quite large and massive, it needs frequent walks. A small yard for such a beast is hardly suitable. Sometimes with a Caucasian you will have to go out for a walk in a park or stadium, so that the animal can run to its heart's content, discharge itself.
• Devotion. Caucasian Shepherd Dogs get used to their owner surprisingly quickly. These animals do not tolerate their change very well. In the course of educating Caucasians, it is very important to demonstrate their leadership, to be strict. However, you cannot constantly rush the animal, as well as shout at it. This behavior will not scare the dog or force him to do everything right. On the contrary, the shepherd will stop having respect for you and will not trust you.

It is worth considering other features of the behavior of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs.

• They can get along smoothly with the children of the owners. True, it is better to keep this friendship under the control of adults.
• The Caucasians do not like strangers at all, but they can be loyal to the friends and relatives of the owners.
• Since these animals have a well-developed protective instinct, they will be able to protect their family from any dangers without hesitation.
• These dogs are very confident in themselves, react clearly and quickly to various extreme situations.
• Caucasians love active games. They need impressive physical activity, so you should not keep them locked up.
• Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are fearless and they always demonstrate this.

The owner and members of his family are perceived by these individuals as members of the pack. If you do not raise such a dog, then the person will not be in the best situation: the dog will believe that he dominates and leads the pack, which in the end can literally end in tragedy. That's why the main thing that will be required from the owner is to show your pet who is the boss in the house.

It must be remembered that Caucasians are very sensitive to pain. This should be taken into account in situations where the dog stays with the child. As a rule, these dogs are very loyal to children, because they understand that they are dealing with those who need to be protected. In moments of communication with kids, Caucasians cease to be strict and tough - they are ready to spend a couple of hours of their time playing. Conflicts can only arise if the child hurts the dog. The most vulnerable part is the ears. That is why it is so important to control such communication.

The attitude of Caucasians towards other animals in the house can be completely different. It all depends on the circumstances. For example, if a shepherd grew up and developed in the company of a cat, then she will not attack her - the mustachioed pet will become her friend, she will protect him.

Caucasians can also treat small kittens well. If you introduce adult pets, then conflict situations are unlikely to be avoided. Caucasians often develop good relationships with other dogs. The only exceptions to this rule are cases when two males are fighting for leadership.

In different localities, Caucasian Shepherd Dogs developed separately. As a result, several different species of this breed were formed. Consider several different types of such dogs.

• Georgian. Representatives of this breed grow quite massive and tall. Their body is slightly elongated and elongated. As for the color, it is usually dominated by a gray palette. These individuals are long-haired.
• Armenian. These varieties are also long-haired. The color of the coat is one-color. These animals are not so massive and tall.
• Azerbaijani. These varieties of shepherd dogs are both mountain and steppe. Mountain species are very similar to the Georgian species of the breed. Steppe dogs are short-haired. The color of the coat is dark fawn or red. These animals have long legs and a square body.
• Dagestan. This is one of the largest types of shepherd dogs. Their body also has a square structure. Such individuals are both long-haired and smooth-haired. Color options vary.
• North Caucasian. A very independent animal that is used to making decisions without human involvement. Determined and fearless individuals with a truly fighting character.

The initial stage of life of such a shepherd dog begins from the moment of its birth and up to 7 weeks. At birth, the weight of puppies is usually 0.6-0.8 kg. If only a kitten that has been born has a mass of less than 600 g, it is unlikely that a large dog will grow out of it.

A puppy that is too large does not guarantee perfect health either. Before buying such a pet, whose birth weight was more than 800 g, you need to visit a veterinarian and ask him if the animal has any congenital disease.

In the first month of life, namely from 15 to 20 days, dogs need special treatment from the owner. This is a serious stage in the development of a Caucasian... During this period, his auditory and visual perception of the world develops. Puppies undertake to learn objects around them. At this age, they can already walk.

When little Caucasians are 2 months old, they begin to add 400-420 g every day. As a result, the weight of two-month Caucasians averages from 13 to 19.6 kg.

At 3 months old, small Caucasians still remain a little awkward, clumsy. Gradually their limbs and neck begin to "stretch". The body takes on an oval structure. The head grows in size, as does the chest. In such a time period, young individuals outwardly resemble bear cubs.

Three-month-old Caucasians are still growing rapidly, maturing and gaining weight. Every day they recover by 200-400 g. As a result, a pet at this age should weigh from 18 to 32 kg. At the withers, girls are usually 43-46 cm tall, and boys 45-49 cm.

When babies are 4 months old, their weight should be on average 25-60 kg. Five-month-old dogs of the Caucasian breed have a maximum weight of 64 kg, and the smallest one - 35 kg. At this age, animals acquire their natural color. In adolescents, molars grow rapidly, their ears rise. At this stage, a young dog looks almost the same as an adult.

Upon reaching 6 months, young shepherd dogs usually weigh 40-94 kg. The height of individuals at the withers in males is 63-68 cm, and in girls - 59-63 cm. It is at this moment that bitches may have their first estrus. However, experts do not recommend knitting dogs of this type at this age. It is better to do this not earlier than the moment when Caucasians are 2 years old.

After 6 months, these dogs stop growing as rapidly as before. In 4 weeks, they can add from about 1700 to 5160 g. As a rule, a 7-month-old Caucasian weighs 41.7-99 kg.

Eight-month-old animals weigh between 43.4 and 104.4 kg. The difference between the largest and smallest weight is largely due to the genes of the parents, the state of health of the individual, as well as the correctness of its content.

Nine month old purebred dogs usually weigh between 44.8 and 109.5 kg. These are already almost fully formed individuals. True, they will still continue to grow, albeit not so rapidly.

Many of the representatives of this breed grow until they are 10 months old. Having reached the specified age, such a dog looks like an ordinary adult. A 10 month old male will weigh between 46.2 and 114.6 kg.

From 6 months to a year, the mass of the described animals increases by a third. For females, the normal weight is 40-115 kg, and for males - 50-125 kg. The height at the withers in males is usually 68-78 cm, and in bitches - 64-72 cm.

If you purchased a puppy of the described breed, then you should track how it grows and develops. Height and weight values ​​are most often indicative of the health status of pets. For example, stunted growth or stunted growth may indicate the presence of certain diseases or deficiencies in the composition of the diet. It is better to keep a detailed table at hand, which reflects all the necessary indicators for a growing dog.

The selection of a young dog of the described breed must be treated as responsibly and balanced as possible. You will need to immediately decide what kind of pet you need - a domestic dog, a reliable watchman and bodyguard, or the future successor of the Caucasian clan. If you are going to buy an animal for a house with children, it is advisable to choose a bitch, not a dog. Females usually behave more good-naturedly and friendly, and the process of their training is much easier. However, it must be taken into account that the bitch will need to be allowed to have offspring at least once - this is important for her health.

Male Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are excellent guards. Since their character traits are more imperious and tough, it is not difficult for them to "crush" a novice dog breeder who has not previously dealt with such animals.

When choosing a future security guard, it is necessary to pay special attention to his immediate behavior. The greatest potential will be in those individuals that behave actively and in contact.... If the kid gets into fights and bully, then he will turn out to be a rather wayward leader, with whose temper not every owner can cope. This must be borne in mind.

Animals that have been kept in a good environment will not show symptoms of an inguinal or umbilical hernia. Cropped ears and the absence of dewclaws will indicate that the breeder takes his work very seriously and closely monitors the condition of his furry wards.

If you want your pet to feel comfortable and healthy, it needs to be provided with good housing conditions. Only if this condition is met, one can expect good behavior and well-being from the dog, as well as long life.

You should know that the Caucasian wolfhound is a big owner. He feels contented and happy only if he has something to guard and protect. The ideal option for such a shaggy thug is a cottage with a yard and a spacious plot.Temperature changes are not terrible for the representatives of this breed. Even short-haired dogs feel comfortable when the weather is cold outside.

You can keep this beast in a spacious aviary. It is better not to leave the Caucasian in a closed and dark room - such conditions do not suit him at all.

If you are going to settle a Caucasian Shepherd Dog in a city apartment, then you should prepare for serious trials. This is a real extreme, which is usually resorted to only by true lovers and fans of the breed. Yes, Caucasians do not suffer from a hyperactive character and usually do not arrange pogroms in their homes, but they will not be able to properly realize all the qualities inherent in nature in an apartment. We must not forget about the difficulties of placing such an animal. Representatives of this breed are very large in size, so they need plenty of free space.

It is not enough to provide a Caucasian with a large bed and a bowl for food and water. In addition, it is necessary to provide such a pet with an ideal overview of all its "possessions". When you open the door, each guest will have to control the reaction of their pet. A stranger who crosses the threshold of a house is the worst enemy for a Caucasian.

It is necessary to provide him with different games. Walk the Caucasian a couple of times a day and spend at least 30-60 minutes on it. Purchase convenient food and water bowls for the animal, but do not place them on the floor or on the ground. Buy special container stands optimized for the height of the animals.

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog must be properly fed. Despite their size, these animals have quite a moderate appetite. Careful attention should be paid to the nutrition of the puppies until they are one year old. In order for the baby to grow actively, it is necessary to take care of the consumption of a large percentage of proteins, vitamins and useful microelements. It is not necessary to feed the pet unnecessarily - their weight should not exceed the permissible values.

It is permissible for Caucasians to give store-bought food or make up a full-fledged diet from natural ingredients. In the first case, they buy dry granular versions of exclusively premium or super-premium class, belonging to large species. It is advisable to purchase only branded high quality options that are usually expensive.

If we are talking about natural nutrition, then it is worth considering which products are recommended and which are prohibited. Let's look at what can and should be given to Caucasian Shepherd Dogs:

• meat products such as lean raw and boiled meat, poultry, liver, trachea, lung, tripe, ears, beef bones;
• boiled or baked fish (only seafood);
• oatmeal, buckwheat, millet, rice porridge;
• various vegetables: cabbage, carrots, herbs, beets;
• cottage cheese, sour cream and kefir;
• occasionally you can give pasta;
• rye crackers.

Now let's get acquainted with the prohibited positions:

• high fat meat: pork and lamb, lard, kidneys, smoked products and sausages;
• river fish with a lot of seeds;
• pearl barley and semolina porridge, corn grits;
• potatoes, peas, fruits and vegetables from the tropics;
• cream, milk;
• rich rolls with sugar, fresh bread.

Do not forget to follow the rules of caring for such a pet.

• A couple of times a week, the good-quality fur of these animals needs to be thoroughly combed.It is advisable to use an iron comb or brush. In moments of molting, you can't do without a special slicker.
• Pets should be washed no more than 1 time in 3 weeks or as needed. To do this, use only special shampoos with a moisturizing effect. In the winter season, the coat must be dried with a hairdryer. The dogs that live on the street must be watered periodically so that there is no overheating.
• Ear cropping is usually the concern of breeders. If you are not going to take the animal to exhibitions, then you can do without this procedure. The ears should be examined carefully. Any contamination should be removed with a cotton swab or disc soaked in a weak composition of hydrogen peroxide.
• The eyes of the animal must be periodically treated with chamomile tincture using a cotton swab. If dirt is removed from them in time, inflammation can be prevented.
• The tips of the nails should be trimmed once a month. After walking in winter, paws should be well washed from salts, otherwise cracks on the pillows may appear. After washing, the paws are dried and coated with oil.
• The teeth must be kept under control - to monitor their condition and to clean them weekly, using a special nozzle on the finger. You also need to take a special toothpaste.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are known throughout the world as first-class guardians and protectors. In addition, these animals became famous for their disposition and fearlessness. So that such a large and strong pet does not lose control over itself, it must be properly educated.

Keep in mind that Caucasians are not easy to train. You should start working with the puppy as early as possible. First, due attention should be paid to the socialization of the pet - walking with him in public places, allowing him to communicate with other animals.

Do not show aggression during training. It is also impossible to physically punish the dog in any case. Such actions will only embitter the animal, make it even more stubborn and persistent. If the owner does not have the proper training skills, it is better to consult a specialist. Until the pet is one year old, he must complete a full course of obedience.

Consider a few popular and interesting nicknames for such pets. For example, the following options are suitable for a girl:

• Alba;
• Bastinda;
• Vista;
• Storm;
• Dzhulba;
• Eve;
• Jamie;
• Star;
• Spark;
• Kama;
• Lulu;
• Morgan;
• Nora;
• Oh yeah;
• Panther;
• Moon;
• Fairy tale;
• Tango;
• Delight;
• Fortune;
• Hilda;
• Tsunami;
• Chara;
• Shirley;
• Estelle;
• Juno;
• Yanka.

For boys, you can choose a suitable name from the following:

• Akbay;
• Baikal;
• Viking;
• Hector;
• Dexter;
• Huntsman;
• Jean;
• Beast;
• Irbis;
• King;
• A lion;
• Moor;
• Nelson;
• Oscar;
• Polkan;
• Roar;
• Sarmat;
• Typhoon;
• Hurricane;
• Favorite;
• Caliph;
• Cerberus;
• Champion;
• Sheriff;
• Elbrus;
• Eugene;
• Jaguar.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are very popular because they are ideal guards, and this is the quality that many people are looking for in dogs. Different reviews are left about these pets. Of the positive qualities, the owners distinguish the following:

• ideal watchdog qualities;
• courage and fearlessness;
• beautiful appearance (many owners are attracted by the fact that Caucasians look like bears);
• excellent mental abilities;
• loyalty to the owner;
• endurance;
• distrust of strangers and absolutely strangers;
• unpretentiousness (these dogs do not need expensive and complicated care).

Unfortunately, people have noticed some shortcomings in the representatives of the Caucasian breed, many of which are quite serious. These include:

• difficult to control behavior;
• there are sudden mood swings;
• only suitable for experienced and professional breeders;
• there are attempts to demonstrate their leadership;
• rather complex and assertive character;
• stubborn behavior that interferes with training;
• they are incredibly difficult to keep in apartment conditions;
• too capricious;
• too large (some breeders looking for a good watchman attribute this parameter to pluses, and others to minuses);
• according to some people, Caucasians are not family dogs.

More about whether this breed is dangerous, the specialist tells in the video below.