Caucasian Shepherd Dog

Also called Kavkazskaya Ovcharka, Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog, Caucasian Sheepdog

Steady, self-assured and independent, with a strong urge to protect its people and territory.

Size	Giant
Weight	45 to 50 kg (99 to 110 lb)males from 50 kg, females from 45 kg1
Height	64 to 75 cm (25 to 30 in)males 68 to 75 cm, females 64 to 70 cm1
Lifespan	10 to 11 years2
Coat	Straight, coarse, stand-off double coat
Origin	The Caucasus region (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Dagestan) and the southern Russian steppes; the FCI lists Russia as the standard's country.1 2
Group	Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs (FCI group 2)

Recognised breedShort profile

confident and fearless guardian

deeply devoted to its owner

gentle and kind with its own family

1 3

Personality what they are like

Steady, self-assured and independent, with a strong urge to protect its people and territory. With its own family, including other household pets, it is soft and affectionate.1 3

Coat and looks how to spot one

straight, coarse, stand-off double coat

A harsh outer coat that stands away from the body over a thick undercoat, at least 5 cm long. Longer hair forms a mane on the neck, tufts on the ears and trousers on the thighs. A big, powerfully built dog; males look noticeably grander than females.1

Coloursany solid colourpiebaldspotted1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Caucasian Shepherd Dog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

Moderate. Daily walks and a large, secure area to patrol suit it better than intense exercise.1

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

The thick coat needs regular brushing, with extra work when the undercoat sheds.1

Home where they are happiest

Needs an experienced owner and a large property with strong fencing; not suited to small flats.1 2

Company who they like around

Forms a close bond with its family and is naturally wary of outsiders, so early and ongoing socialisation is important.1 3

The story where it all began

For centuries shepherds in the Caucasus Mountains relied on these dogs to guard flocks and homes against predators. Organised selection began in the Soviet Union in the 1920s, and the FCI fully accepted the breed in 1984.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Many have ear tufts and a lion-like mane around the neck.1
2
Russian cynologist Aleksandr Mazover was the first to describe the breed scientifically.2
3
Several regional types exist across the Caucasus, and Georgian dogs are noted for their size and muscle.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Caucasian Shepherd Dog' refers to its origin in the Caucasus region, where it was historically used to guard livestock. The alternative name 'Caucasian Ovcharka' comes from the Russian word 'ovcharka,' meaning 'sheepdog.'2

Famous ones stars of the breed

Dobrynya A Caucasian Shepherd Dog who served as a prison guard dog in Russia, known for his role in the penal system.2

Name ideas for your new friend

BorisKazbekUshbaTerekVolgaDagElbrusGroznyKiraMilaSoniaZarya

A day in the life told by a Caucasian Shepherd Dog

I wake up with the sun, stretching my big paws. First, I do a perimeter check of my yard, sniffing every corner. My humans are still asleep, so I settle on the porch, keeping watch. When they come out, I greet them with a gentle nuzzle. The rest of the day, I follow them around, making sure they're safe. In the afternoon, I lie in the shade, but my ears stay alert. When the mailman comes, I give a low woof, just to remind him I'm here. At night, I sleep near the door, dreaming of mountains.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 328, Group 2, Section 2.2 Molossoid breeds, mountain type; standard dated 02.03.2011. Definitively accepted by FCI in 1984 per Wikipedia.1
AKC: Has a breed page on AKC.org (Foundation Stock Service breed).3

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Caucasian Shepherd Dog tip

Choose high-quality, single-ingredient treats and limit them to 10% of daily calories. Fresh fruits and vegetables make excellent low-calorie options, but always check with your vet before introducing new foods.

Source: akc.org petmd.com

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Caucasian Shepherd Dog, and at what times?

Feed your adult Caucasian Shepherd Dog at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. Consistent morning and evening times help their digestion. For exact amounts, check the food label and consult your vet.4

What should a Caucasian Shepherd Dog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A high-quality large-breed dog food is a great choice. Keep dangerous foods away, especially chocolate, grapes, raisins, onion, garlic, xylitol, and macadamia nuts. Always ask your vet before introducing new foods.5

How often should I bathe a Caucasian Shepherd Dog?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days, about every two and a half months. The thick coat doesn't need frequent washing, and too many baths can strip natural oils. Use a dog-specific shampoo.6 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Caucasian Shepherd Dog need brushing?

Brush your Caucasian Shepherd Dog every few days, and daily during heavy shedding seasons. The thick double coat needs regular care to prevent mats and remove loose fur. Pet Wiki's plan recommends brushing every three days as a baseline.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Caucasian Shepherd Dog's nails, and how often?

Trim nails about every four weeks, or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Use a dog nail clipper and cut small amounts at a time, stopping before the quick. If you are unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for guidance.6 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Caucasian Shepherd Dog need?

This breed needs moderate daily exercise, like walks and time in a large, secure yard to patrol. Intense exercise is not required, but consistent activity keeps them happy. Pet Wiki's plan includes daily walks and play.1 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Caucasian Shepherd Dog's teeth and ears?

Brush your dog's teeth several times a week with dog toothpaste, and check ears every two weeks for redness or odor. Clean ears only with a vet-recommended solution, and never push anything into the ear canal. Daily brushing is ideal for teeth.6 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Caucasian Shepherd Dog live?

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog typically lives 10 to 11 years. With good care, regular vet visits, and a healthy diet, you can help your companion enjoy a full lifespan.2

Is a Caucasian Shepherd Dog good with children and other pets?

With its own family, including children and other pets, this breed is soft and affectionate. However, it is naturally protective and wary of strangers, so early and ongoing socialisation is essential. Always supervise interactions with young children.1 3

Can a Caucasian Shepherd Dog be left alone?

This breed is independent and can be left alone for reasonable periods if well exercised and socialised. Its protective nature means it may become anxious if left too long, so a secure routine and a safe space are important. For extended absences, consider a dog sitter.1

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.