The Caucasian Ovcharka dog is an ancient breed that is believed to have be roaming the Caucasus Mountains between Europe and Asia for over 2000 years!
Which is a bit odd…
When you think about it because the American Kennel Club (AKC) didn’t “officially” recognize the breed until 1996, particularly since this dog been has long been revered throughout history by those who have had the good fortune of being able to own and work with one.
Now because…
This breed has made its home in many countries over the centuries, it has been called many names by many people.
The Caucasian Ovcharka dog may be known as the:
- Caucasian Volkodav,
- Georgian Nagazi,
- Caucasian Ovtcharka,
- Caucasian Sheepdog,
- Caucasian Mountain dogs,
- The Russian Bear dog,
- Shepherd dog or the Caucasian Shepherd dog,
- As well as the Sage Ganghazi, which is how the United Kennel Club likes to refer to them.
And while…
The Federation Cynologique Internationale has this breed registered as a USSR breed, this decision to do so can be considered a bit “debatable,” since it is believed that the Ovcharka mountain breed actually originated from the Caucasian countries which lie outside of the Soviet Union territories.
It is there that…
These outstanding animals proved themselves to be a reliable and solid footed Mountain Dog that were able to double as a shepherd, all in their own right.
This is probably why…
Throughout history they have been used as guard dogs, hunting dogs, and cattle driving dogs capable of living and thriving in some the most inhospitable environments their in the world.
Remarkably loyal…
The Caucasian Shepherd dog have also become valued as great family pets, as well as hard working gods, that have become a “staple” in mountain rescue operations all over northern Asia and Eastern Europe.
The Ovcharka Dog Breed is MASSIVE…
… This was a dog deliberately created to be warm, fluffy and cozy inside its doubly thick coat. Similar to the famous TV dog ‘Beethoven’ in size at least, the Asian Ovcharka is somewhat of a Central Asian based dog as opposed to the St Bernard, popular in Eastern areas. It is clearly a Molosser dog; a big, fuzzy ball of wondrous fluff designed to be mountain shepherds.
Which means that if…
You decide that you want to purchase a Caucasian Shepherd puppy or better yet adopt a Caucasian Ovcharka rescue dog, there are a few things you should expect.
- First, they are going to have a big head, long legs and a long tail.
- Second, they’re going to be “big” boned. Or to put it another way, these dogs are going to be solidly built.
Lastly, they are going to have big “puppy dog” eyes which is going to make you forget just how huge they are and want to just give them a giant hug!
He’s also….
Going to be “intolerably hairy” and is going to need rigorous brushing (they say twice a week, but we say daily) and regular baths to get rid of all that shedding hair… (and good luck trying to get this giant into the bath)!
And while…It would be nice if the term Caucasian actually gave us a hint as to what color his coat might be, the truth is that Caucasian Ovcharka can come in all sorts of solid and mixed colors so don’t let that part of the name fool you.
Caucasian Ovcharka temperament
Probably the best way to describe a Caucasian Sheppard dog temperament would be to call them a huge teddy bear that doesn’t particularly trust strangers. You see, this big lovable guy is growing to be a perfect addition to most households.
That said however…
Because the Caucasian Ovcharaka has been breed to be an intelligent independent thinker, he can tend to be a bit headstrong and will need a firm owner to prevent him simply doing as he pleases.
He’ll also….
Need plenty of stimulation to keep his mind active, even if he himself is not an active dog in his later years.
Be warned…
- A bored Caucasian is highly likely to chew your shoes, your shoe stand and then the wall behind it if you don’t keep him busy.
- He’s is not good with other animals as a general rule.
- And due to his territorial nature, unless socialized early on, your Caucasian is not likely enjoy interacting with strangers.
- Obedience classes are also advisable with this breed, since they are headstrong and tend to do as they please.
Additionally…While many owners will tell you that this dog is not very active, the puppy version is.
So, if you do decide to adopt a Caucasian Ovcharaka puppy, you’ll need to provide them with plenty of room to run and stretch.
Apartment living will work provided you take the time to allow your “buddy” to hit the park or go for a run but be aware that your Caucasian will be able to clear a 6 foot fence if he or she chooses to do so and even an electric fence isn’t going to be able to stop a determined Ovcharaka!
Is the Caucasian a healthy Dog?
All in all, the Caucasian Ovcharaka dog breed is a relatively healthy dog breed. That said however there are a few issues you’ll want to be on the lookout for including:
- Hip dysplasia in later life like most big breeds.
- As well as cataracts.
Which is why…
We at IndulgeYourPet always like to suggest that while one is researching what kind of pet to get, they should also see exactly what it would cost to actually purchase a pet insurance policy as well.
This way, if in the future, you find yourself staring an INSANELY large vet bill, you won’t have to face the bill alone. Instead, you can use your insurance to minimize your expenses.
For more information about how much a pet insurance policy might cost you and which pet insurance company has the “best” deal, we would encourage you to check out our Best Pet Insurance companies article.
How are these dogs with small children and infants?