Caucasian Shepherd: breed characteristic. Feeding and care

Caucasian Shepherd is a very strong animal. It has a large size. Otherwise, this breed is called aboriginal or Caucasian wolfhound. This beast is the perfect guard. Today we will take a closer look at these powerful and big dogs.

Powerful Caucasian Shepherd Dogs belong to the ancient breeds, which once underwent a very tough selection for the right to be with a person. If you start from archaeological data, you can find out that the age of these individuals is at least 2500 years old.

It is known that the ancestors of the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are Tibetan dogs. Before our era, they were the true embodiment of the classical molossus, since they were real heavyweights. In addition, these animals have always demonstrated endless dedication towards their owner. Caucasians have always treated their enemies mercilessly.

It is believed that the dogs of this breed came to the territory of China when the emperor was presented with a gift of such a puppy. Representatives of this breed were immediately rated in Asia. Caucasians there caused great interest and attracted a lot of attention. Further, these dogs spread quite quickly. At first they got into 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 fluffy guard dogs. According to her, Caucasians managed to resurrect the ruler of Armenia, Ara the Beautiful, by licking his wounds. Around this time there was a division 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.

The Central Asian individuals were left in their native territory and did not change much over time. There is some evidence that, in contrast to Central Asians, who could protect the territory in whole groups, Caucasians could cope with such tasks alone or in pairs.

Caucasian lands are very beautiful. In those parts, nature is truly beautiful. However, the climatic conditions in the Caucasus are far from ideal. In addition, the mountainous areas, which are very difficult to cross, have become “transit” routes for merchants and conquerors. The ancestors of the Caucasian shepherds hardened their character in such difficult circumstances for them. Their hardness passed on to the next generations. Life in the conditions of the intersection of movement had a serious impact on many characteristics and distinctive features of Caucasians.

Caucasian wolfhounds performed the 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 - Severe hatred of a wolf and a stranger.

At that time there were several types of such dogs. Each of the nationalities had its own dog. At the unofficial level, a similar division still exists today. But such animals riveted the attention of Russian breeders and not only. It was at that moment that the direct work on the reincarnation of aboriginal breed in the factory one began.

Over the years, work has been carried out to improve the qualities and characteristics of Caucasian Shepherd Dogs. Dogs made more livable in urban environments. However, unfortunately, not the highest quality breeding, coupled with the unfavorable urban environment, have done their work and the life span of Caucasians has been seriously reduced. Today, the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs live on average no more than 10-12 years, although in former times this period was longer.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are very popular today because they have excellent guard qualities. Before you get such a faithful and fearless guard, you should familiarize yourself with its description and the standard to which it must conform.

Let's get acquainted with the main characteristics of Caucasian Shepherds.

• The weight of adult dogs can reach 50 kg. Females easier - on average, 45 kg, but there are also heavier individuals.
• The Caucasian Shepherd Males at the withers are 68 cm tall, and the females are 64 cm and taller.
• As for the color 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 is allowed not too bright and noticeable tiger color. Pure black or white colors are considered undesirable. The lips and eyelids of Caucasians have a characteristic dark shading, regardless of the main coat color of the animal.
• As mentioned above, the life span of Caucasian Shepherd Dogs was reduced when they were adapted to the conditions of life 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 a dog and a balanced diet. In ideal conditions, the pet can live longer.
• The nature of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog is very dedicated. They can get along well with children. Usually such harsh watchdogs are loyal to the pranks of the little ones. True, to allow children to Caucasian Shepherd should be only under the supervision of adults. Caucasians treat other animals with caution, and strangers - with hostility.
• The level of intelligence of these animals is quite high. 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 are planning to acquire such an animal.
• The guarding potential of these dogs is excellent. It is protection that is the main purpose of this breed. Caucasian Shepherds can without a doubt and hesitate to engage in battle with the enemy, regardless of his strength.

As you can see, the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs have many very important features that should be borne in mind by a person who plans to have such a powerful dog. And now we will consider what are the standards of the exterior of these animals.

• Head Caucasians are usually square and rather massive. The skull has a wedge-shaped structure. Brow arc well developed and visible.
• Muzzle Caucasians has a large width. The transition to the face from the forehead is smooth, gradual. The nasal back is always perfectly flat and straight. Caucasians nose has pronounced nostrils.
• Jaws Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are very massive and even look scary. A characteristic feature of these individuals is the presence of 42 teeth.Fangs are large, and the bite is dense.
• Eyes Caucasians are not too big and differ round shape. They are set fairly wide and planted deeply. The color of the iris can vary from light walnut to brown. The eyelids are clearly delineated and stand out on the face.
• Ears representatives of this breed are planted high and wide. They have a characteristic triangular shape. May be cropped or uncropped.
• Neck Caucasians are characterized by low posture, massiveness and marked muscularity. The neck is pronounced.
• Body in Caucasian Shepherd Dogs, it corresponds to the Molossian type. It is muscular, well balanced. The thorax of these individuals is wide enough, the back is straight, the withers are pronounced. The croup is strong and strong, slightly sloping closer to the tail.
• Tail shape in described dogs resembles a sickle. There are also animals with a tail ring. This limb is planted high, has a great length.
• Limbs characterized by medium length. They are straight, have well developed muscles. The bones are wide. The paws are usually slightly round and very dense.
• Wool Caucasians can not be called gentle and soft. Usually it is tough and rather rough. Hair straight and not very tight to the body of the animal. The undercoat is sound, plentiful. On the tail, neck and hind legs a little longer.

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

To the education of the Caucasian Shepherd should be approached with all the responsibility, respect and love. Only if this condition is observed can the dog be fully recovered and adequate behavior be expected. Caucasians are characterized by the following features.

• Friendliness. Caucasians are big fans 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. Should be given to the animal more time. A dog must feel your love. If there is no constant contact of such a dog with a person, then friendship 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 alert and ready to rush to the defense of the owners.
• Equilibrium. Caucasian Shepherd dogs are very smart. From an early age they understand that their task is to protect the house. It is extremely rare for Caucasians to demonstrate gratuitous aggression and malice. Of course, I mean those individuals who were raised in respect and love. Caucasians are allowed to indulge, not worrying about the fact that they no longer normally protect the home. On the contrary, praise and encouragement will only benefit these animals.
• Activity. Before you go shopping for a Caucasian Shepherd, it should be noted that the animal is quite large and massive, it requires frequent walks. A small courtyard for such an animal is unlikely to fit. Sometimes with Caucasians it will be necessary to go for a walk in the park or stadium, so that the animal could be full of power, run down.
• Devotion. Caucasian Shepherds surprisingly quickly get used to their owner. Their shift, these animals suffer very badly. In the course of education of Caucasians, it is very important to demonstrate their leadership, to be strict. However, it is impossible to constantly rush the animal, as well as shout at it. This behavior does not frighten the dog and does not force him to do everything correctly. On the contrary, the shepherd will no longer have respect for you and will not be trusted.

It is necessary to take into account other features of the behavior of Caucasian Shepherds.

• They can get along without trouble with the children of the owners. True, it is better to keep this friendship under adult control.
• Caucasians absolutely do not like strangers, but they can relate to loyal friends and relatives of the owners.
• Since these animals have a well-developed defender's instinct, they can without hesitation be able to save their family from any dangers.
• These dogs are very confident in themselves, they react clearly and swiftly to various extreme situations.
• Caucasians love active games. They need impressive physical exertion, so you should not keep them locked up.
• Caucasian Shepherd dogs are fearless and they always show it.

These individuals perceive the host and members of his family as members of the pack. If you do not bring up such a dog, then the person will not be in the best possible situation: the dog will assume that he dominates and leads in the pack, which can end in literally a tragedy. That is why the main thing that is required from the owner is to show your pet who is the boss.

We must remember 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 contact with the youngest, Caucasians cease to be strict and tough - they are ready to spend a couple of hours of their time playing games. Conflicts can only occur 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 a company with a cat, then it will not attack her - a mustache pet will become her friend, she will protect him.

Caucasians can relate well to small kittens. If you introduce adult pets, then conflict situations are unlikely to be avoided. Caucasians often establish good relations with other dogs. The exception to this rule can only be those cases when two males fighting for leadership have met.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs developed separately in different places. 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 high. Their body is slightly elongated and elongated. As for the color, it is usually dominated by a gray palette. These individuals are long-haired.
• Armenian These varieties are also long-haired. Coat color - monophonic. These animals are not so massive and tall.
• Azerbaijani. These varieties of shepherd dogs are both mountain and steppe. Mountain views are very similar to the Georgian species of the breed. Steppe dogs are short-haired. The coat color is dark fawn or red. Such animals have long legs and a square body.
• Dagestan. This is one of the largest species of shepherd. Their body 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 used to make decisions without involving a person. Resolute and fearless individuals that are truly combat in nature.

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

Too large puppy size 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 the veterinarian and ask him whether the animal has any congenital disease.

In the first month of life, namely from 15 to 20 days, dogs need a special attitude on the part of the owner. This is a serious stage of development of Caucasian. During this period, the development of his auditory and visual worldview takes place. Puppies are taken to know the objects around them. At this age they already manage to walk.

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

At 3 months, the little Caucasians are still a bit awkward, awkward. Gradually, they begin to "stretch" the limbs, neck. The body acquires an oval structure. The head grows in size, as does the chest. In such a time interval, the young individuals look like bear cubs.

Three-month 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 that age should weigh from 18 to 32 kg. In withers, the height of girls is usually 43-46 cm, and boys - 45-49 cm.

When babies turn 4 months old, their weight should average 25-60 kg. Five-month 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 rapidly grow, their ears rise. At this stage, the young dog looks almost the same as an adult.

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

After 6 months, these dogs stop growing as fast as before. For 4 weeks, they can add about 1700 to 5160 g. As a rule, a 7-month-old Caucasian weighs 41.7-99 kg.

The eight-month-old animals weigh from 43.4 to 104.4 kg. The difference between the largest and the 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 pedigree dogs usually weigh from 44.8 to 109.5 kg. These are almost fully formed individuals. True, they will still continue to grow, although not so fast.

Many of the representatives of this breed grow up to 10 months. Having reached the specified age, such a dog looks like a normal adult. A 10-month-old male will weigh between 46.2 and 114.6 kg.

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

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

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

The dogs of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog are excellent guards. Since their character traits are more powerful and tough, it is not difficult for them to “crush” a novice breeder who has not previously dealt with such animals.

When selecting a future security guard, it is necessary to pay special attention to his immediate behavior. The greatest potential will be in those individuals who behave actively and in contact. If a kid climbs into fights and gets bullied, then a rather capricious leader will turn out of him, and not every owner will be able to cope with his temper. This must be borne in mind.

Animals that are kept in a good environment will not have symptoms of an inguinal or umbilical hernia. Docked ears and the lack of dewclaws will indicate that the breeder takes his work very seriously and is closely monitoring the state of his furry wards.

If you want your pet to feel comfortable and healthy, it needs to provide good conditions. Only if this condition is met, one can 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 satisfied and happy only if he has something to protect and protect. An ideal option for such a shaggy thug is a cottage with a courtyard and a spacious plot. Temperature changes to representatives of this breed are not terrible. Even short-haired dogs feel comfortable if there is cold weather outside the window.

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

If you are going to put a Caucasian Shepherd in a city apartment, then you should get ready for serious challenges. This is a real extreme, which is usually resorted to only true lovers and fans of the breed. Yes, Caucasians do not suffer from a hyperactive nature and usually do not arrange pogroms in their dwellings, but they will not be able to properly implement all the qualities set by nature in an apartment. We should not forget about the difficulties of placing such an animal. Representatives of this breed are very large in size, so they need plenty of free space.

It is not enough to provide the Caucasian with a large stove bench and a bowl for food and water. In addition, it is necessary to provide such a pet a perfect overview of all his "possessions". When opening the door, each guest owners will have to keep under control the reaction of their pet. A stranger who crossed the threshold of a house is the worst enemy for a Caucasian.

It is necessary to provide him with different games. Walk Caucasian a couple of times a day and spend at least 30-60 minutes on it.Purchase convenient food and water bowls for your pet, but do not place them on the floor or on the ground. Buy special racks for tanks optimized for the height of animals.

Caucasian Shepherd necessarily be properly fed. Despite their size, these animals have quite a moderate appetite. Care must be taken to feed puppies until they are one year old. In order for the baby to grow actively, you need to take care of their consumption of a large percentage of proteins, vitamins and useful trace elements. It is not necessary to feed the pet too much - their weight should not be more than acceptable values.

Caucasians are allowed to give food store or make a complete diet of natural ingredients. In the first case, buy dry granular options exclusively premium or super-premium class, relating to large species. 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 what products are recommended and which are prohibited. Let's consider what can and should be given to the Caucasian Shepherd Dogs:

• meat products such as lean, uncooked and boiled meat, poultry, liver, trachea, lung, tripe, 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 let's get acquainted with prohibited positions:

• meat of high fat content: pork and mutton, lard, kidneys, smoked products and sausages;
• river fish with a large number of pits;
• barley and semolina, corn grits;
• potatoes, peas, fruits and vegetables from the tropics;
• cream, milk;
• bread rolls with sugar, fresh bread.

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

• A couple of times a week, good-quality hair of these animals must be thoroughly combed. It is advisable to use an iron comb or brush. In moments of molting can not do without specially pokhoderki.
• Domestic individuals 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 must be dried with a hairdryer. Dogs that live on the street, it is necessary to periodically water it so that there is no overheating.
• Bridging the ears is usually a breeders care. If you are not going to carry the animal for 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 composition.
• The eyes of the animal must be periodically treated with chamomile tincture using a cotton swab. If you remove dirt from them in time, inflammation can be prevented.
• Once a month it is necessary to cut the tips of the claws. Paws after walks in the winter should be well washed with salts, otherwise cracks may appear on the pillows. After bathing, the legs are dried and coated with oil.
• Teeth must be kept under control - look after their condition and carry out cleaning weekly, using a special nozzle on the finger. Toothpaste also need to take special.

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs are known all over the world as first-class watchmen and protectors. In addition, these animals are famous for their temper, fearlessness. In order for such a large and strong pet not to lose control of itself, it must be properly educated.

Consider that Caucasians are not so easy to train. Engage with a puppy should start as soon 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 the trainings. 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 the experts. Until the pet is one year old, he must complete a full course of obedience.

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

• Alba;
• Bastinda;
• Vista;
• Thunderstorm;
• Julba;
• Eve;
• Gemmy;
• Star;
• Spark;
• Kama;
• Lulu;
• Morgana;
• Nora;
• Oh yeah;
• Panther;
• Moon;
• Fairy tale;
• Tango;
• Uslada;
• 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;
• The beast;
• Irbis;
• King;
• A lion;
• Moor;
• Nelson;
• Oscar;
• Polkan;
• Roar;
• Sarmat;
• Typhoon;
• Hurricane;
• Favorite;
• Caliph;
• Cerberus;
• Champion;
• Sheriff;
• Elbrus;
• Eugene;
• Jaguar.

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

• ideal guard qualities;
• courage and fearlessness;
• beautiful appearance (many owners are attracted by the fact that Caucasians look like bears);
• wonderful mental abilities;
• dedication to the master;
• endurance;
• distrust of strangers and strangers;
• unpretentiousness (these dogs do not need expensive and difficult care).

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

• difficult to control behavior;
• mood swings occur;
• suitable only for experienced and professional breeders;
• there are attempts to demonstrate their leadership;
• quite complex and energetic;
• obstinate behavior that prevents the training;
• they are incredibly difficult to keep in a residential environment;
• too capricious;
• too large (some breeders looking for a good caretaker are considered to be pluses to this parameter, and others to minuses);
• according to some people, Caucasians are not family dogs.

Read more about whether this breed is dangerous, says a specialist in the video below.