Caucasian Shepherd Dog: characteristic of the breed. Feeding and care

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

Powerful Caucasian shepherd dogs belong to the ancient breeds that once passed a very tough selection for the right to be near a person. If you start from archaeological data, you can find out that the age of these individuals is at least 2500 years.

It is known for certain that the ancestors of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are Tibetan dogs. BC they were the true embodiment of the classic Molossians, as they were real heavyweights. In addition, these animals have always shown endless devotion towards their master. Caucasians have always been merciless towards enemies.

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

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

Central Asian individuals were left in their native territory and remained almost unchanged 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, climatic conditions in the Caucasus are far from ideal. In addition, mountainous areas, which can be very difficult to pass through, have become “transit” routes for traders and conquerors. The ancestors of the Caucasian shepherd dogs tempered character in such difficult circumstances for them. Their hardness was passed on to the next generation. Life in a crossroads has had a major impact on many of the characteristics and characteristics of Caucasians.

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

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

Over the years, work has been carried out to improve the qualities and characteristics of Caucasian Shepherds. Dogs made more livable in urban environments. 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 shepherds 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 get such a faithful and fearless guard, you should familiarize yourself with his description and the standard to which he must comply.

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

• The weight of adult males can reach 50 kg. Bitches are easier - on average, 45 kg, but more severe individuals are also found.
• The males of the Caucasian Shepherd at the withers are 68 cm tall, and the females are 64 cm and above.
• As for the coloring 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 stroke of a dark shade, regardless of the main coat color of the animal.
• As mentioned above, the life expectancy of Caucasian Shepherds was shortened when they began to adapt to the living conditions in the city. At the moment, on average, such animals live up to 12 years. Of course, a lot here depends on the proper care of the dog and a balanced diet. In ideal conditions, the pet can live longer.
• The character of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog is very dedicated. They can get along well with children. Typically, such severe guard animals are loyal to the pranks of babies. True, children should be allowed into the Caucasian Shepherd only under the supervision of adults. Caucasians are wary of other animals, and hostile to strangers.
• The level of intelligence 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 Caucasians as a whole is not very obedient. This is very important to consider if you plan to get such animals.
• The security and watchdog potential of these dogs is excellent. Protection is the main purpose of the representatives of this breed. Caucasian Shepherd Dogs can no doubt and hesitate to engage in battle with the enemy, regardless of their strength.

As you can see, 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 consider what standards exist for the exterior of these animals.

• Head Caucasians are usually square and rather massive. The skull has a wedge-shaped structure. The superciliary arches 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 of the Caucasians has pronounced nostrils.
• Jaws Caucasian shepherds are very massive and even look scary. A characteristic feature for these individuals is the presence of 42 teeth. The fangs are large and the bite is dense.
• Eyes Caucasians are not too large and are rounded. They are set quite widely and planted deep. The color of the iris can vary from light hazel to hazel. The eyelids are clearly defined and stand out on the muzzle.
• Ears representatives of this breed are planted high and wide. They have a characteristic triangular shape. Can be cropped or uncropped.
• Neck Caucasians are characterized by low posture, massiveness and noticeable muscularity. The scruff is pronounced.
• Body in Caucasian shepherds corresponds to the Molossian type. It is muscular, well balanced. The chest of these individuals is quite wide, the back is straight, the withers are pronounced. The croup is strong and strong, slightly beveled closer to the tail.
• Tail shape in the described dogs it resembles a sickle. There are also animals with a tail ring. This limb is set high, has a large length.
• Limbs characterized by medium length. They are straight, have well-developed muscles. The bones are wide. Paws are usually slightly rounded and very dense.
• Wool Caucasians cannot be called tender and soft. Usually it is tough and rather rude. The hair is straight and not very tightly attached to the body of the animal. The undercoat is solid, plentiful. On the tail, neck and hind legs a little longer.

Many people treat the Caucasian Shepherd Dog with great care and caution. This is not surprising, because these dogs inspire fear with their appearance. They are large, powerful, with well-developed muscles. Their faces do not look cute and playful.

It is necessary to approach the education of the Caucasian shepherd with all responsibility, respect and love. Only if this condition is met can a dog be expected to be fully committed and behave appropriately. Caucasians are characterized by the following features.

• Friendliness. Caucasians are big fans to be in the company. Even if the giant lives in the courtyard of a private house, it must be at least occasionally allowed into the house. The animal should be given more time. The dog must feel your love. If there is no constant contact of such a dog with a person, then friendly relations will not work.
• Courage. One name of these dogs suggests that they were bred for the protection of sheep and the protection of 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 show causeless aggression and anger. Of course, we mean those individuals that were grown in respect and love. Caucasians are allowed to pamper without worrying about the fact that they will cease to properly guard the home. On the contrary, praise and encouragement only benefit these animals.
• Activity. Before you go shopping for a Caucasian shepherd, you should consider that the animal is quite large and massive, it requires frequent walks. A small yard is hardly suitable for such a beast. Sometimes with a Caucasian it will be necessary to go for a walk in a park or a stadium, so that there the animal could run on its heels, be discharged.
• Devotion. Caucasian shepherd dogs surprisingly quickly get used to their owner. These animals do not tolerate their change very well. In the course of the education of the Caucasians, it is very important to demonstrate their leadership and be strict. However, you can’t rush the animal constantly, as well as yell at him. This behavior does not scare the dog and does not make him do everything right. On the contrary, the shepherd will cease to have respect for you and will not trust.

It is worth considering other features of the behavior of Caucasian Shepherds.

• They can easily get along with the children of the owners. True, it is better to keep this friendship under adult control.
• Caucasians do not like strangers at all, but they can be loyal to friends and relatives of the owners.
• Since the instinct of a defender is well developed in these animals, they can without hesitation save their family from any dangers.
• These dogs are very confident, react clearly and swiftly to various extreme situations.
• Caucasians love active games. They need impressive physical activity, so they should not be locked up.
• Caucasian shepherd dogs are fearless and they always demonstrate it.

These individuals perceive the owner and members of his family as members of the pack. If you do not educate such a dog, then the person will not be in the best situation: the dog will assume that he dominates and leads in the pack, which in the end can literally end in tragedy. That is why the main thing that is required from the owner is to show your pet who the owner is 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 remains in company 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 the little one, Caucasians cease to be strict and tough - they are ready to spend a couple of hours of their time on games. Conflicts can occur only 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 ratio of Caucasians to other animals in the house can be completely different. It all depends on the circumstances. For example, if a shepherd dog grew and developed in company with a cat, then she will not attack her - the mustachioed pet will become her friend, she will protect him.

Caucasians can be nice to little kittens. If you introduce adult pets, then conflict situations are unlikely to be avoided. Caucasians often establish good relationships with other dogs. An exception to this rule can only be those cases when two males have fought for leadership.

In different places, 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, as a rule, a gray palette prevails in it. These individuals are longhair.
• Armenian These species are also long-haired. The color of the coat is plain. 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 Georgian varieties of the breed. Steppe dogs are short-haired. The color of the coat is dark fawn or red. Such animals have long legs and a square body.
• Dagestan. This is one of the largest types of shepherd dogs. Their case also has a square structure. Such individuals are both long-haired and smooth-haired. Color options may vary.
• North Caucasian. A very independent animal that is used to making decisions without involving a person. Decisive and fearless individuals that are truly fighting in nature.

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

Too large a puppy also does not guarantee perfect health. Before you buy such a pet, whose weight at birth 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 a special attitude from the owner. This is a serious stage in the development of the Caucasian. During this period, the development of his auditory and visual perception of the world takes place. Puppies come to know the objects around them. At this age they already manage to walk.

When the young Caucasians turn 2 months old, they begin to add daily 400-420 g. As a result, the mass of two-month-old Caucasians averages from 13 to 19.6 kg.

At 3 months, little Caucasians still remain a little clumsy, clumsy. Gradually, their limbs begin to “stretch”, the neck. 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 cubs.

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

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

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

After 6 months, these dogs stop growing as rapidly as before. For 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 from 43.4 to 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 thoroughbred dogs usually weigh between 44.8 and 109.5 kg. These are almost fully formed individuals. True, they will still continue to grow, although 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 have a mass of 46.2 to 114.6 kg.

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

If you purchased a puppy of the breed described, then you should monitor how it grows and develops. Values ​​of height and weight most often indicate the health status of pets. For example, slow growth or stopping it may indicate the presence of certain diseases or deficiencies in the diet. It’s better to keep a detailed table on hand, which reflects all the necessary indicators for a growing dog.

The selection of a young doggie of the described breed must be treated as responsibly and carefully as possible. You will need to immediately decide which pet you need - a home dog, a reliable watchman and bodyguard, or a future successor to the Caucasians clan. If you are going to buy an animal for a house in which there are children, it is advisable to choose a bitch, not a male. Females usually behave more good-natured and friendly, and the process of their training is much simpler. However, it should be noted that the bitch will need to be allowed to acquire offspring at least once - this is important for her health.

Dogs of the Caucasian Shepherd are excellent guards. Since their character traits are more powerful and harsh, it is not difficult for them to “crush” a novice dog breeder who has not dealt with such animals before.

When choosing a future guard, it is necessary to pay special attention to his immediate behavior. The greatest potential will be for those individuals who are active and contact. If the kid gets into fights and pulls himself up, then he will turn out to be a rather wayward leader, with the disposition of which not every owner can cope. This must be borne in mind.

Animals that were kept in good conditions will not have symptoms of inguinal or umbilical hernia. Cropped ears and the absence of dewclaws will indicate that the breeder is very serious about his studies and is closely monitoring the condition of his furry wards.

If you want your pet to feel comfortable and healthy, he needs to provide good conditions. Only under this condition can you expect good behavior and well-being from the dog, as well as long life.

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

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

If you are going to settle a Caucasian shepherd in a city apartment, then you should prepare for serious trials. This is a real extreme, which is usually resorted only to true lovers and fans of the breed. Yes, Caucasians do not suffer from a hyperactive nature and usually do not arrange pogroms in their homes, but they will not succeed in normalizing all the qualities laid down by nature in the apartment. We must not forget about the difficulties of placing such an animal. Representatives of this breed differ in very large dimensions, and therefore they need enough free space.

It is not enough to provide a Caucasian with a large couch 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 the door is opened, each guest will have to control the reaction of their pet. A stranger who has crossed the threshold of a house is the worst enemy for a Caucasian.

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

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog must be properly fed. Despite its dimensions, these animals have quite a moderate appetite. Care should be taken in feeding puppies until they are one year old. In order for the baby to grow actively, it is necessary to take care of his consumption of a large percentage of proteins, vitamins and minerals. It is not necessary to feed the pet too much - their weight should not be more than the permissible values.

It is permissible for Caucasians to give store-bought feed or make a complete diet of natural ingredients. In the first case, dry granular versions of exclusively premium or super-premium class related to large species are bought. 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 Shepherds:

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

And now we will get acquainted with the forbidden positions:

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

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

• A couple of times a week, a good-quality wool of these animals needs to be combed well.It is advisable to use an iron scallop or brush. In moments of molting, you can’t do without a special catch.
• Domestic animals 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 winter, the hair should be dried with a hairdryer. Dogs that live on the street must be periodically watered so that there is no overheating.
• Stopping ears is usually the concern of breeders. If you are not going to carry the animal to the exhibitions, then you can do without this procedure. Ears should be carefully examined. Any contamination should be removed with a cotton swab or disc moistened with a weak hydrogen peroxide.
• The eyes of the animal must be periodically treated with chamomile tincture using a cotton swab. If you remove dirt from them in time, you can prevent inflammation.
• Once a month you need to trim the tips of the claws. Paws after walking in the winter should be washed well from salts, otherwise cracks on the pillows may appear. After washing, the legs are dried and coated with oil.
• The teeth should be kept under control - watch their condition and clean them weekly, using a special nozzle on the finger. Toothpaste also needs to be taken special.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are known worldwide as first-class watchmen and defenders. In addition, these animals became famous for their temper, fearlessness. So that such a large and strong pet does not lose control, it must be properly educated.

Keep in mind that Caucasians are not so easy to train. It is necessary to start with a puppy as early as possible. First, due attention should be paid to the socialization of the pet - to walk with him in crowded places, to allow him to communicate with other animals.

Do not show aggression during training. Physically punishing the dog is also impossible 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 contact specialists. Before the pet turns one year old, he must complete the full course of obedience.

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

• Alba
• Bastinda
• Vista;
• Storm;
• Julba;
• Eve;
• Jammy
• Star;
• Spark;
• Kama;
• Lulu;
• Morgana
• Nora;
• Oh yeah;
• Panther;
• Moon;
• Story;
• 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;
• Rumble;
• Sarmat;
• Typhoon;
• Hurricane;
• Favorite;
• Caliph;
• Cerberus;
• Champion;
• Sheriff;
• Elbrus
• Eugene;
• Jaguar.

Caucasian shepherd dogs are very popular because they are ideal guards, and it is this quality that many people look for in dogs. About these pets leave different reviews. Of the positive qualities, the owners distinguish the following:

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

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

• difficult to manage behavior;
• there are sharp mood swings;
• only suitable for experienced and professional breeders;
• there are attempts to demonstrate leadership;
• quite complex and assertive character;
• stubborn behavior that prevents training;
• they are incredibly difficult to keep in apartment conditions;
• too wayward;
• 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 information about whether this breed is dangerous, says the specialist in the video below.