Caucasian Shepherd Dog - Breed Features, Care and Needs
Caucasian sheperds dogs are associated with huge strength, but also independent and not entirely safe behavious - that's why they are often listed as aggressive dogs. Are they as dangerous as it seems? If trained properly since birth and socialized with other dogs, the Caucasian ovcharka behaves well, so there's no need to be afraid. Keep in mind, though, that the Caucasian shepherd isn't a homebody pet and it needs a lot of exercise. Check what you should know before a Caucasian shepherd appears in your house.
What are the characteristics of the Caucasian shepherd dog?
The Caucasian shepherd is quite a large and muscular animal. Its thick and lush fur brings to mind a small bear. Although Caucasian shepherds are typically very calm and attached to their owners, they need proper training and control. Making them get used to small animals is equally important.
Improper behaviour towards a Caucasian shepherd dog might result in aggression. Remember about this if you decide to keep this animal in your house.
Caucasian ovcharka - a guard dog
Caucasian shepherds are primarily guard dogs. They are very vigilant, clever, and also courageous. They are able to “go through fire and water” if they note something threatens their owner. Unfortunately, the tendency to aggression is often reinforced by irresponsible people who cannot comprehend how dangerous this animal might be.
What kind of fur does the Caucasian shepherd have?
Caucasian shepherds have different colors. Although it’s often uniform, some animals are spotted or speckled. Their fur is thick and rather straight, and the length depends on the type. There are dogs with short, medium-length and long hair. It’s very important to take a proper care of it.
What lifestyle do Caucasian shepherds prefer?
The Caucasian ovcharka is a dog that needs a lot of space and exercise. It’s not a suitable animal for an apartment. The best environment for it is a big house with a garden where it has enough space for releasing its energy and emotions.
Many specialists claim that the Caucasian shepherd dog feels the best outside. It’s because of the fact that it’s a guarding dog - it satisfies its needs by guarding its family.
Even with a large garden where the Caucasian shepherd dog can run freely, an everyday walk is a good idea. When preparing for a stroll, make sure your pet has a long enough leash. Pay attention whether strange animals appear in the area - you can never know how the Caucasian shepherd reacts to them, and one needs a lot of strength to hold them.
Caucasian shepherd - diet
Although Caucasian shepherds are not very demanding in term of the type of dog food they get, it needs a lot of it to get full. If you decide on such an animal, you can go to a veterinarian who will tell you what and how much should your Caucasian ovcharka consume. A puppy usually needs a larger dose of nutrients - for growth.
Dry food or raw meat is usually the best food for dogs - make sure it’s of a good quality and coming from a trusted source.
What kind of bowl does the Caucasian shepherd dog need?
Because of its large size, the Caucasian shepherd dog needs much more food than small Yorkies or Shih Tzu. Therefore, a bowl for a Caucasian ovcharka has to be big. But consider getting two separate bowls - one for food and one for water.
Are you wondering what bowl size is right? Check how much food you typically give to your pup. This way, you will know what volume is right. Apart from the diameter, also pay attention to the height of the bowl. It should match the length of the dog’s snout. This way, it can eat with no issues.
A bowl for the Caucasian shepherd dog can be made of three different materials. Stainless steel bowls are the most popular - mostly because of their durability. If you want something more aesthetic - pick plastic or ceramic bowls for your Caucasian shepherd.
Caucasian shepherd dog - what are the varieties of this breed?
There are three basic Caucasian shepherd dog breeds that can be distinguished by its fur length:
- short-haired,
- medium-length haired,
- long haired.
The mentioned Caucasian shephedrs differ in appearance. For instance, the long-haired version has a very hairy tail and the fur forms a mane on the neck.
How to take care of a Caucasian shepherd dog?
The Caucasian Shepherd dog is not a suitable animal for every owner. Because of the big individualism and sense of freedom, the dog should be trained since it’s a puppy. Interestingly enough, only certain trainers can deal with this breed. It only confirms how important preparation and experience are.
Additionally, because of a long and thick fur - the dog needs care in this matter as well. The Caucasian shepherd dog should be groomed at least 2-3 times a week, or, if possible - every day. It’s also important to keep the dog clean, so baths are necessary at least several times a year.
How does the Caucasian ovcharka behave towards others?
The Caucasian shepherd dog is not an aggressive animal towards people. The situation in which it senses a danger for itself or the owner is the only exception. If it happens, the dog might get uneasy and bite someone. It doesn’t like when someone disturbs its sleep either, so small children should be careful.
As for other domestic animals, a lot depends on how the animal has been trained. Puppies learn very quickly, so if they were taught a calm behaviour towards other pets, they will behave in a similar fashion as adults.
How to pick a leash for the Causasian ovcharka?
Caucasian shepherds are massive animals with lots of strength. For this reason, even puppies need a tough leash, so that they, as well as other animals are safe during a walk. You can buy a smaller leash for a young Causasian ovcharka - but make sure it’s made of durable materials.
As the dog matures and grows, is needs not only a stronger, but also a longer leash. In case of adult Caucasian shepherds, we recommend picking models intended for animals up to 50 kg. An automatic version is an interesting and convenient solution.
Are you curious how much does a leash for a Caucasian shepherd cost? The price depends on the type of the leash, as well as its size, length and materials used in its production.
Do Caucasian shepherds often catch diseases?
The Caucasian ovcharka is primarily susceptible to obesity, so that’s why an active lifestyle is so important for this animal. The large mass can lead to development of heart diseases, diabetes and joint degeneration. Other common illnesses involve cancers and eye issues.
Interestingly enough, Caucasian shepherds don’t live long - usually maximum 10 years. So, if you want a companion for a very long time - pick another breed.
Is the Caucasian shepherd dog expensive?
Not only the purchase, but also everyday care of a Caucasian shepherd dog is a large expense. If you decide on a puppy, you have to pay quite a large sum of money, depending on the breeder and the dog’s gender. Monthly costs rely on the food you pick - it’s another costly responsibility.
📍 How much does the Caucasian shepherd dog eat?
The Caucasian shepherd dog should receive food according to its age, twice a day. If you are not sure whether you feed your dog with enough food, contact a veterinarian and make an appointment.
📍 How much does a Caucasian shepherd cost?
Caucasian shepherds are quite expensive. The exact price depends on the age and gender of the dog, as well as the breeder who sells you the animal.
📍 How much does the Caucasian ovcharka weigh?
Adult Caucasian shepherds are quite heavy - they reach up to 100 kg. Make sure not to overfeed these animals and provide enough exercise to them. Poorly cared for and obese dogs are prone to many illnesses.
📍 How long do Caucasian shepherds live?
Caucasian shepherds don't live very long - with good care, they live up to 10 years. It's not a long-term companion.
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