"When I bark, you know I mean business!"
Unlike many other dogs, the Caucasian Ovcharka’s bark is as bad as its bite. This flock-guarding breed takes their job as your guardian very seriously. They’re the perfect watchdog for families, but their aggression can be intimidating for first-time pet owners.
The Caucasian Ovcharka is a loyal and courageous breed that asserts itself around others. They were created to ferociously guard flocks, but their fierce personality can be calmed with training and socialization. Caucasian Ovcharkas are known for being aggressive and tough to manage, which means they definitely aren’t for everyone. However, if you’re looking for a strong-willed, alert guard dog with a natural instinct to protect, they might be a good fit for you.
Caucasian Ovcharkas’ coats are tan, white, pied, gray, fawn, and brindle. Their fur comes in two varieties. Those that descend from the plains of Caucasia typically have shorter, light hair. Those that come from mountainous areas will have longer hair that hangs lower to the ground and covers a more muscular body. Either way, the Caucasian Ovcharka’s coat is usually thick, dense, and quite weather resistant. They also have a feathered covering over their ears, tails, body, and between the toes to protect them from the elements.
Because of their assertive and protective personalities, Caucasian Ovcharkas are perfect for guarding families with children and other pets. However, their aggression can cause them to play too rough, so they shouldn’t be left alone with kids or animals they don’t know. They’ll accept your family and friends warmly, but they’re very suspicious and often hostile toward strangers. Caucasian Ovcharkas can weigh up to 150 pounds, so homes with large spaces to run and roam are the best fit for their large stature.
The Caucasian Ovcharka is a big dog with tons of energy. They need a lot of exercise and are happiest in big homes with plenty of space to run. They love having work to do, so give them something to focus their attention and make time enough for long walks each day. When walking with your Caucasian Ovcharka, make him heel beside or behind you so he knows who’s in charge. The breed is strong-willed and aggressive, so giving them strict and consistent training from an early age is a must.