About the Caucasian Ovtcharka

The Caucasian Ovtcharka, a guardian dog from the Caucasus mountain area, has many alternative names, a few include Caucasian mountain dog, Caucasian Shepherd, Caucasian Sheepdog, Kavkaskai Ovtcharka and Sage Ghafghazi. In Russian "Ovtcharka" means, "sheepdog."

History

The origin of the Caucasian Ovtcharka is not entirely clear. This breed dates back before the middle ages, some believe to prehistoric ancestors.

One theory of the development of the breed is that they are domesticated wolves from the Caucaus Mountain area. Others claim that the breed wad developed from crosses of Mastiff-Spitz. Still some experts argue that the breed developed from sheepdogs that had migrated from Tibet to the Caucasus. However, recent archaeological finding point to Mesopotamia, as the origin place of the breed.

For centuries the Caucasian Ovtcharka have been the protectors of sheep, from both human and animal predators. this breed has become popular in countries where shepherds need protection for their flocks. These countries include Russia, Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Daghesteon and surrounding countries.

The Caucasian Ovtcharka made its first show ring appearance in Germany in the 1930s. In the late 1960s, the breed was brought to East Germany to serve as a border patrol dog, mainly along the Berlin Wall. When the Berlin Wall came down in 1989, there were 7,000 patrol dogs. These dogs were dispersed and many of them went to new homes with families all throughout Germany.

In 1995 the Caucasian Ovtcharka was recognized by the United Kennel Club (UKC). This breed is also recognized by the FCI, NKC, CKC, APRI and ACR.

Today this husky, powerful breed of dog, is the most popular breed in Russia. They are commonly shown in dogs shows in Russia and throughout other parts of the former Soviet Union.

Description

Caucasian Ovtcharka are strong boned, muscular and powerful dogs. Their distinctive bear like head is massive and wedge shaped that slightly tapers into a blunt muzzle. Their ears are high set, triangle shaped and held light to the head. Originally ears were often cropped to avoid injury to them when facing predators.

Their eyes are almond shaped and set deep in the head. Eye colors could include brown, blue, green or yellow. Some people think their eyes are almost human looking.

The Caucasian Ovtcharka weigh between 70 and 160 pounds and range in height from 26 to 32 inches at the withers. Males are larger and weigh more than the females.

Caucasian Ovtcharka have a double coat. the outer coat is made up of course, long outer guard hairs, while the undercoat is soft, fine hair. Puppies have a finer coat than do the adults. Coat colors vary from dark gray, light gray, silver, reddish, fawn, tan, peach, brindle, patched or all white.

Grooming should be done frequently with a firm bristle brush, and bath as needed.

Temperament

The Caucasian Ovtcharka are assertive, spirited, intelligent and powerful. They are good with children, although they can get rough when playing. They are best for an adult as the master. They develop a strong, protective bond with its owner. They depend heavily on their own instinct and may do differently than what instructed.

Caucasian Ovtcharka do not take well to strangers and have a strong urge to protect its family, this could include children, cat and other dogs. They got along with dogs that they include in their family, but will act dominate towards others dogs, they are not familiar with.

This breed needs a strong owner, who can show strong leadership, spend lots of time training and socializing, as well as be gentle and loving.

They are a hardy breed and are able to adapt to most climates. They need space to run and exercise and would do fine in a big fences yard. Sleeping outside is not an issue with its thick, warm coat, as long as they have proper shelter.

Life Expectancy

The life expectancy of the Caucasian Ovtcharka is 10 to 11 years.

FCI: Federation Cynologique Internationale

NKC: National Kennel Club

CKC: Continental Kennel Club

APRI: American Pet Registry Inc.

ACR: American Canine Registry

sources:
www.courageouscaucasions.com
www.flockguard.com
www.dogbreedinfo.com
en.wikipedia.org