Caucasian Shepherd Dog
Quick Summary
Powerful guardian breed best suited for experienced owners with space. Key considerations include training challenges, size management, and territorial nature.
Contents
Weight Range
99-170 lbs
♂ Male: 99-170 lbs
♀ Female: 99-170 lbs
Height Range
58-76 inches
♂ Male: 23-30"
♀ Female: 23-30"
Life Expectancy
10-12 years
Average lifespan with proper care and nutrition
Intelligence
Rank #32
Above Average Intelligence
Breed Group
Foundation Stock Service
Originally bred for Dating back centuries in the Caucasus Mountains, these dogs served as fierce guardians of livestock against large predators like wolves and bears, while protecting settlements
Compatibility Ratings
Behavior & Training
Physical Characteristics
| Male Height | 23"-30" |
| Female Height | 23"-30" |
| Male Weight | 99-170 lbs |
| Female Weight | 99-170 lbs |
| Coat Length | 1/5 |
| Drooling Level | 4/5 |
Cost & Ownership
Cost Category
High initial purchase price ($2000-4000). Monthly costs include premium food ($100-150), grooming ($70-100), and preventive healthcare. Emergency medical expenses can be substantial due to size.
Training & Socialization
Training Difficulty
Naturally protective and territorial, displaying strong guardian instincts. Shows deep loyalty to family while remaining aloof with strangers. Independent nature requires consistent training and early socialization for balanced behavior.
Social Needs
Moderate human interaction required, though independent by nature. Generally reserved with strangers and can be territorial with other dogs. Can tolerate being alone but needs secure containment.
Breed Overview
Majestic and powerful, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog boasts a massive frame covered in a thick, weatherproof double coat. Their large head features a broad muzzle and strong jaws, while their muscular build reflects their guardian heritage. These dogs display remarkable strength and agility despite their size, moving with surprising grace when alert.
Key Highlights
Pros
- ✓ Exceptional guardian abilities
- ✓ Loyal to family
- ✓ Weather-resistant coat
- ✓ Powerful and protective
Cons
- ✗ Challenging to train
- ✗ Requires extensive socialization
- ✗ Not suitable for novice owners
- ✗ High maintenance costs
Breed Characteristics
| Temperament | Fearless, Bold, Kind |
| Energy Level | Calm |
| Trainability | Independent |
| Grooming Needs | 2-3 Times a Week Brushing |
| Shedding | Regularly |
Exercise & Nutrition
Exercise Requirements
Requires 60-90 minutes of daily exercise, preferably split into two sessions. Activities should include moderate walks, patrolling territory, and light play. Despite their size, they don't need intense exercise but benefit from consistent activity.
Diet & Nutrition
Adult dogs require 4-6 cups of high-quality food daily, divided into two meals. Special attention needed for protein content and weight management. Prone to bloat, so proper feeding schedule and portion control essential.
Adult dogs need 4-6 cups of premium large-breed food daily, split into two meals. High-protein diet recommended, with careful portion control to prevent bloat. Fresh water must always be available.
Environment & Living Space
Living Requirements
Needs substantial space with secure fencing. Best suited for homes with large yards or rural properties. Thrives in cold climates but can adapt to moderate temperatures with proper care.
Requires minimum half-acre of securely fenced property. Ideal setting includes large yard with sturdy fencing at least 6 feet high. Can adapt to cold climates but needs shelter from extreme weather.
Suitable Environments
Climate Suitability
History & Origin
Developed in the harsh terrain of the Caucasus Mountains, these ancient guardian dogs protected flocks from predators and defended settlements. Their impressive size and protective nature evolved from centuries of working alongside shepherds.
Historical Purpose
Dating back centuries in the Caucasus Mountains, these dogs served as fierce guardians of livestock against large predators like wolves and bears, while protecting settlements.
Fun Fact
These dogs were historically used to protect against bears and wolves in the Caucasus Mountains.
Grooming & Maintenance
Special Considerations
Requires extensive socialization from puppyhood. Heavy seasonal shedding demands regular grooming. Secure fencing essential due to territorial nature.