Caucasian Ovcharka UK

The Caucasian “Ovcharka”,translated to shepherd in English, or otherwise known as the Caucasian Mountain dog is a large to massive rare breed guardian from the Caucasus in Central Asia, adopted as a Russian breed. They are registered with the FCI of Europe but are currently not recognised by the English Kennel Club. The first CO called Zsar was imported from spain by Valerie Parr in September 2002, There are anything from 150 to 250 Caucasian Ovcharka currently in the UK. 

Utility = General all-round Guardian

Origin = Caucasus, Central Asia [Russia]

Temperament = Sometimes more demonstrative then the CAO, but as with CAO not prone to hyperactivity, restful if nothing is happening. Very attached to immediate family unit.

Trainability = Independent nature,strong willed may switch off when focused on outside interests.

Exercise = Moderate in the growing stage to avoid problems with joints, Will enjoy as much as the owner will give but not a high activity dog.

Diet = The same or less then a High activity breed like a GSD. 

With Children and other pets =  If socialised from a young age, Males may not settle with another strong willed male. Caution recommended with young children due to Bulk. They may show protective behaviour caution recommended with outside friends.

With strange dogs = Can be dominant, due to size caution recommend. 

Attitude with strangers = Can be aloof even Hostile, socialisation important from a young age.

Guarding attitude = Shorter Fuse then a CAO, very quick to react with or without warning sensible ownership required.

Size = females can be between 27-30 inch and 50 kg upwards. Males are commonly 30-33 + inch and 60-75 kg

Coat = Usually Very thick and long with a dense undercoat,Native dogs can also have a shorter coat .

Coat Maintenance = Heavy Moulting, Weekly groom to avoid Knots.

Colour = A popular colour is shades of rustic browns and greys with a black mask, although they can come in many colour combinations including pure white.[ Solid black; diluted black or black in any combination or genetic blue or liver brown colour is faulted in the FCI standard.]