Caucasian Ovcharka: Livestock Guardian Dog Breed
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This magnificent, yet somewhat uncommon breed, piqued my interest when beginning to research livestock guardian dog breeds to watch over my livestock. We live in the foothills where wolves are a potential threat. I knew we needed a large dog that could take on these ferocious predators. As I continued my research, I wondered…
Does the Caucasian Ovcharka make a good livestock guardian? Yes, these dogs can make great livestock guardian dogs as they have been doing so for thousands of years. It is important, however, to make sure to thoroughly research breeders as many of these dogs have been cross-bred or bred to be military/fighting dogs.
Does the Caucasian Ovcharka make a good pet? Yes, these dogs make admirable pets when cared for by experienced dog owners with time to socialize, train, and exercise them. Be aware that these dogs can be highly territorial and dog-aggressive.
After learning about this breed, I realized these dogs weren’t quite right for what I needed. I live in a region where people let their dogs free range. This means we have random dogs coming through our property every once in awhile. The highly aggressive nature of the Caucasian Ovcharka could become a problem for our community’s adventurous pets.
But read on to see if the Caucasian Ovcharka may be right for you! And for information on how to train livestock guardian dog breeds with positive methods, check out a review on my favorite training program here.
Other Names: Caucasian Mountain Dog, Caucasian Shepherd Dog, Kavkazkaya Ovcharka, Kaukasische Schaferhund, Nagazi and Volkodav
Caucasian Ovcharka at a Glance
Article Contents
Caucasian Ovcharka Personality/Temperament
The Caucasian Ovcharka is typically described as being independent, dominant, highly territorial and fearless. They tend to have lower energy levels than the average livestock guardian dog – they may spend an entire afternoon scanning for danger under the shade of a tree.
Because of their variability in breeding lines, they have been used less and less as livestock guardian dogs in recent years, and have become more common as household companions. However, this does not mean an Ovcharka can’t be a successful livestock guardian.
Caucasian Ovcharka Livestock Guardian Dog Traits
The Caucasian Ovcharka is a fairly sedentary dog – they tend to spend their days laying down in the field, watching for any signs of danger. Though they may seem “sleepy” at times, they are actually one of the more reactive livestock guardian dog breeds. They will fearlessly jump into action at any perceived threat.
They are most active at night – Ovcharkas will perform perimeter patrols and may bark quite frequently. If you have close-by neighbors, it might be a good idea to discuss with them the purpose of your dog’s barking. If they have livestock themselves, they may even be grateful for your dog’s deterring bark. If not, your neighbors might need to invest in some ear plugs. For more barking (and training dogs to bark only when necessary), see my article, Livestock Guardian Dogs and Barking.
Caucasian Ovcharkas are gentle and loving towards their families and tend to bond tightly with their owners. These dogs need regular human interaction and should not be left in a situation where they are alone all the time. Ovcharkas do require a confident and consistent owner, and preferably one with experience in training large breed dogs. They are strong-willed and may not be the easiest to train, especially as they get larger. For that reason (among others) it is highly recommended to start training and socialization right away!
For help with obedience training using positive methods, I highly recommend the online program, Brain Training for Dogs (affiliate link). For a thorough review of what the program includes, the things I love about it, and the things I dislike about it, see my review article here.
This breed is quite suspicious of strangers and can act aggressively towards visitors. It is important to properly introduce newcomers to avoid any unwanted altercations. They also tend to be other-dog aggressive and may not take kindly to strange dogs on their property. They can learn to work well with other livestock guardian dogs. This breed tends to do well with children, although they should be supervised when unfamiliar children are around.
One downfall of this breed is they tend to have a higher prey drive than some other livestock guardian dog breeds. This means they may not be suitable for guarding small animals, such as chickens, or that they may require additional time and training to do so. This also means Caucasian Ovcharkas may go after rodents.
It is always important to discuss any dog’s potential to be a livestock guardian dog with breeders you come into contact with. However, with this breed, it is especially crucial. For one, these dogs were also bred to be property guards and fighting dogs, which diminished the working qualities in those lines. These dogs are further removed from their livestock guardian ancestors and may not possess the same instincts their forefathers once did.
Secondly, it has been said that between 70-80% of the breed’s population has been cross-bred with other large breeds. This can make it very difficult to find a true guardian-worthy Caucasian Ovcharka.
Strong fencing, at least six feet in height, is recommended to keep these dogs safe and contained. They are also known to be diggers, so you may have to consider getting fencing that goes below the ground.
If you are thinking about getting Caucasian Ovcharkas for livestock guardian purposes, you may also be interested in:
Caucasian Ovcharka Pet Traits
In recent years, Caucasian Ovcharkas have become increasingly used as family companions. Although they can be wonderful pets, they should not be taken on by most first-time dog owners. These dogs can be challenging to train for a novice due to their large sizes and independent natures.
On the bright side, the Caucasian Ovcharka is great with children in the family, although caution should be taken when introducing new children, as with any dog. It is also important to note that any rough-play between “the dog’s child” and an unfamiliar child may cause this dog to go into protection mode. Be sure to educate your children so they know how to act around this dog to ensure their safety.
This dog is not meant for apartment living – regardless of what other sources may say. Even though they have lower exercise needs than many other livestock guardian breeds, they should not be kept in a confined space.
A word of caution – it is in their nature to bark, especially at night. If you plan to keep your Caucasian Ovcharka primarily as an outdoor dog, be prepared to bring them inside at night or find a new place to live with far away neighbors. For more on what to do about frequent barking, see my article, Train Your Caucasian Ovcharka to Stop Barking: When You Don’t Want Fido to ‘Speak.’
Below is a video of a British man who successfully owns several Caucasian Ovcharkas as household pets. Note that he is very knowledgeable and has experience in training these dogs. He says his dogs aren’t particularly dog aggressive and tend to be okay with visitors. This is likely related to their extensive training. You should not expect every Caucasian Ovcharka to behave in this manner. Caution should be taken with all visitors, children and other dogs.
If you want to learn how to obedience train your dog using positive training methods, check out the online program, Brain Training for Dogs (affiliate link). This program is perfect for people who want to raise a livestock guardian dog as a pet. If you want to know why, see my review article here.
If you are thinking of getting a Caucasian Ovcharka as a pet, you may also be interested in:
Caucasian Ovcharka Livestock Guardian Dog History
Place of Origin: Russia
Traditional Livestock Guarded: Sheep, goats
Traditional Predators: Wolves, jackals, bears
Caucasian Ovcharka Livestock Guardian Dog Lifestyle
Caucasian Ovcharkas were historically used in Russia as both livestock guardian dogs as well as property dogs. Sheepherders often employ livestock guardian dogs, like the Caucasian Ovcharka, to help guard their large flocks of sheep.
Typically, the dogs stood guard in the mountainous regions in the summertime and moved back down into the plains and villages during the colder months of the year. The Ovcharkas were not used to herd or round up sheep, but were there to protect against wolves, jackals and even bears.
This breed is more social than some other livestock guardian breeds. Meaning, they like to be under the direction of shepherds and work closely alongside them.
Caucasian Ovcharka Additional History
Caucasian Ovcharkas have been around for thousands of years working as livestock guardian dogs in the Caucasus Mountains. This breed’s true origin, however, is somewhat of a mystery. Because the Caucasian Ovcharka, the Armenian Gampr, and the Central Asian Shepherd all have similar traits, it has been said they are all descendants of the ancient Molasser breeds and potentially were transported from ancient Mesopotamia.
It is also possible that a long time ago, the Ovcharka was bred with domesticated wolves – as this breed has the markings and coloring that are quite wolf-like. This is just speculation, however. Regardless of their true origin, the modern Ovcharkas have been bred and exported primarily from Russia in the past several centuries.
During the early 20th century, the land that is now Russia was under the control of the Soviet Union. Modernization changed the structure of the country and the economy. Traditional sheepherding greatly declined during these years, and with it, the population of the Caucasian Ovcharka.
At this time, many of these dogs were taken in by the Soviet Red Army, who bred them for use as guard and patrol dogs. While this led to a resurgence in the population of these dogs, it diminished their natural livestock guardian instincts and abilities.
Throughout the mid to late 1900s, the Caucasian Ovcharka became well-established in the Soviet Union. However, their exportation was forbidden until the country’s breakup in the 1990s. After this time, many dogs were “fired” from their posts as military and guard dogs and sent off to live with families or exported to other countries.
This is one reason why it is important to understand your Ovcharka’s history – military and patrol dog lines are much more common and it can be really difficult to obtain a dog with livestock guardian abilities.
A few Caucasian Ovcharkas may have been brought to North American prior to the 1990s. However, the 1990s is when the serious importation of this breed began. There are now a few thousand Caucasian Ovcharkas in the United States. However, due to their variations in background, most are commonly seen as a companion or home protector and not as many are used as livestock guardian dogs.
Other Caucasian Ovcharka Jobs
In addition to being livestock guardian dogs, Caucasian Ovcharkas have been employed as guard dogs, military dogs, show dogs, fighting dogs, and even as therapy dogs.
Caucasian Ovcharka Appearance
The Caucasian Ovcharka is a landrace breed (not bred to a specific standard), and thus there is quite a bit of variability in their appearance. They were traditionally bred for their working traits, strength, and durability, rather than for a particular appearance.
Caucasian Ovcharkas are powerful dogs, usually with rather wolf-like markings. They have heavy muscular bodies and thick coats that protect them from the harshness of their environment
Caucasian Ovcharka Size
Height: 27 – 30 inches (male), 25 – 28 inches (female)
Weight: 110 – 170 lbs. (male), 100 – 150 lbs. (female)
For more on LGD breed sizes, check out my article, Livestock Guardian Dog Sizes.
Caucasian Ovcharka Colors
The Caucasian Ovcharka comes in many solid colors except black, blue, or chocolate. They are often piebald (pigmented spots on unpigmented body) or spotted. They have distinct markings around their eyes that look nearly like spectacles!
Caucasian Ovcharka Coat
The Caucasian Ovcharka comes in short-, medium-, and long-haired varieties. All are double coated with a rougher outer coat and a soft, fine undercoat. Their legs and tail are feathered, and they usually have fur between their toes. They are not suited for hot and humid climates.
Caucasian Ovcharka Head
The most distinguishable trait of the Caucasian Ovcharka is the wedged shape of its head. They have very large skulls with a blunt muzzle that has given them the reputation of looking like a bear.
Their eyes are deep-set, tilted, and are typically brown in color.
The Ovcharka’s ears are high-set and traditionally have been cropped. Ear cropping is illegal in some areas in Europe as it is an extremely painful procedure.
Caucasian Ovcharka Body
The Caucasian Ovcharka is heavily built and has both a ferocious and dominating presence. The neck is short but extremely muscled. The chest is broad and the abdomen is slightly tucked under. Their paws are heavy, large and have hair between their toes to help keep them protected and insulated.
Caucasian Ovcharka Tail
The Caucasian Ovcharka has a tail that is typically curled over the back in a hook-shape when excited or hanging naturally downward when at ease. Their tails should not be cropped.
Caucasian Ovcharka Grooming
Although this dog does shed quite a bit, it is recommended to brush them only twice per week. Once a year they do go through a heavy shed which will require more maintenance. They may need an occasional bath depending on the conditions in which they find themselves.
You’ll want to purchase a pin brush, comb, and a deshedder to keep your Ovcharka in tip top shape.
This breed’s nails tend to grow faster than the average dog. It is recommended to trim their nails regularly, or at least check to ensure there is no splitting or cracking.
As with any dog, especially those working outdoors, their ears should be cleaned regularly to prevent dirt and debris build up, which can result in painful ear infections.
It is recommended that you brush your dog’s teeth every few days. Regardless, your pup should go into the vet for a professional tooth cleaning once per year.
For everything you could ever want to know about grooming Caucasian Ovcharkas, check out my guide, Grooming Caucasian Ovcharkas: The Ultimate Guide.
Caucasian Ovcharka Diet/Eating Habits
The caloric intake of Caucasian Ovcharkas will greatly depend upon their sizes and their activity levels. Males will need anywhere from 2445 up to 6515 calories per day. Some larger males may require more. Females will typically require fewer calories – between 2275 and 5930 calories per day. See the table below for more specific estimates:
To ensure their longevity and lifetime health, it is important to feed your Caucasian Ovcharka a large to extra large dog breed food. If the dog is not working as a livestock guardian, it is advisable to carefully watch their food intake and weight. Because these dogs were born to work and survive in rugged climates on marginal diets, they are prone to obesity in our modern society.
For advice on how to properly feed your Caucasian Ovcharka, check out these resources:
Caucasian Ovcharka Lifespan
Most sources say Caucasian Ocharkas live to be between 10 and 12 years. However, several Caucasian Ovcharkas have lived well beyond twelve years. Some cases report dogs that lived to 17 years! This is quite uncommon in the giant breed world.
For more information on livestock guardian dog lifespans, what to expect from puppies, and how to care for older dogs, see my article, What is the Lifespan of a Livestock Guardian Dog.
Caucasian Ovcharka Cost
In the United States, Caucasian Ovcharkas cost between $1500 and $2000 on average. However, these prices are based on your average Ovcharka, who may or may not be a true livestock guardian breed. Those who come from guaranteed pure blood lines are much more expensive, and can be quite difficult to obtain, especially if being imported.
If you are interested in adopting a Caucasian Ovcharka from a rescue, check out my article, Rescue Livestock Guardian Dogs – Should You Get One?
Caucasian Ovcharka Health Problems
The Caucasian Ovcharka is at risk for the typical large dog breed health issues – hip and elbow dysplasia primarily. However, they have also been known to be prone to cataracts and obesity.
Livestock Guardian Dog Breeds Similar to the Caucasian Ovcharka
The Caucasian Ovcharka is nearly indistinguishable (by the untrained eye) from the Central Asian Shepherd and the Armenian Gampr. In fact, many kennel clubs have actually been fighting for these dogs to all be included under the same umbrella breed as they share ancestors and come from similar geographical areas. The Central Asian Shepherd and the Caucasian Ovcharka are especially similar, but nonetheless, are still considered to be separate breeds.
See my articles on Armenian Gamprs and Central Asian Shepherds.
Caucasian Ovcharka vs. Central Asian Shepherd
The Caucasian Ovcharka and the Central Asian Shepherd are extremely similar. However, the Caucasian Ovcharka tends to be stockier, more headstrong, and more attached to their owners than the Central Asian variety. The Central Asian Shepherd tends to be calmer in demeanor and more people-oriented in general.
Both dogs were used as both livestock guardians and home watchdogs. However, Central Asian Shepherds were typically used by nomads and have a higher tendency to roam. Caucasian Ovcharkas are also quite a bit more reactive and animated than the Central Asian Shepherd. For more on the Central Asian Shepherd, check out my article, Central Asian Shepherd: Livestock Guardian Dog Breed.
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