Caucasian Mountain Shepherd Breed Guide
Everything you need to know about the Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Wolfhound, and Caucasian Shepherd Dog.
What is a Caucasian Shepherd Dog?
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest and most powerful guardian breeds on earth. You might know it as Caucasian Mountain Shepherd, Caucasian Wolfhound, or Caucasian Ovcharka. Same dog, different names.
These dogs come from the Caucasus Mountains (Georgia, Armenia, Azerbaijan, Russia). Shepherds bred them for one job: fight wolves and bears. They've done that job for thousands of years. Today, Caucasian Shepherd breeders worldwide preserve this ancient protector.
Understanding the Different Names
Confused by all the names? Here's what each one means:
Caucasian Mountain Shepherd
Named for their home in the Caucasus mountain range. These dogs adapted to harsh mountain winters and rugged terrain.
Caucasian Ovcharka
The Russian name. Ovcharka means shepherd dog. This is what Russians and Eastern Europeans call the breed.
Caucasian Wolfhound
Describes their job fighting wolves. Their massive size and fearless nature made them perfect for the task.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog
The official FCI breed name. This is what you'll see at international dog shows and in registries.
Learn More About Caucasian Shepherds
Explore Caucasian Shepherd breeder guides and books or shop Caucasian Shepherd products and supplies for your new puppy.
History and Origin
The Caucasian Ovcharka has protected livestock for over 2,000 years. Their home is the Caucasus Mountains, a vast region between the Black Sea and Caspian Sea.
Local shepherds faced a problem: wolves and bears killed their sheep. They needed a dog big enough, brave enough, and tough enough to fight back. The Caucasian Mountain Shepherd was their answer.
Harsh mountain life and constant predator threats shaped this breed. The Caucasian Wolfhound learned to think independently, make quick decisions, and never back down. Modern Caucasian Shepherd breeders preserve these traits today.
Temperament and Personality
The Caucasian Mountain Shepherd is calm, confident, and fiercely protective. Here's what to expect:
- Protective: They guard everything. Family, property, livestock. The Caucasian Ovcharka takes protection seriously.
- Independent: These dogs think for themselves. The Caucasian Wolfhound makes decisions without waiting for your command.
- Loyal: Once bonded, they're yours forever. Expect a shadow that weighs 200 pounds.
- Calm: Well-socialized dogs are confident, not nervous. They don't bark at every leaf.
- Suspicious of strangers: They don't trust people they don't know. That's the point. Socialize them early.
Size and Appearance
The Caucasian Wolfhound is massive. They needed that size to fight wolves and bears.
- Size
- Giant
- Male Height
- 27-30+ inches
- Male Weight
- 110-220+ lbs
- Female Height
- 25-28+ inches
- Female Weight
- 100-180 lbs
- Lifespan
- 10-12 years
- Coat
- Thick double coat
- Colors
- Gray, fawn, tan, pied, brindle, white
Is a Caucasian Ovcharka Right for You?
Be honest with yourself before contacting Caucasian Shepherd breeders:
Good Match If:
- • You've owned guardian breeds before
- • You have a large, securely fenced yard
- • You commit to early socialization
- • You want a family protector
- • You live rural or suburban
Not For You If:
- • You're a first-time dog owner
- • You live in an apartment
- • You have frequent visitors
- • You want an off-leash dog
- • You prefer eager-to-please breeds
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between Caucasian Mountain Shepherd and Caucasian Ovcharka?
No difference. Same breed, different names. Ovcharka means shepherd dog in Russian. Caucasian Wolfhound and Caucasian Shepherd Dog also refer to the same breed.
How big does a Caucasian Wolfhound get?
Very big. Males stand 27-30 inches tall and weigh 110-220+ pounds. This is one of the largest dog breeds in the world.
Are Caucasian Ovcharkas aggressive?
Not inherently aggressive. They are protective and suspicious of strangers. Shepherds bred them to guard against wolves. With proper socialization, they become calm family protectors. They need experienced owners.
What is the lifespan of a Caucasian Mountain Shepherd?
Ten to twelve years. Good for a giant breed. Work with responsible Caucasian Shepherd breeders who health test their dogs.
Why is it called a Caucasian Wolfhound?
Because they fought wolves. Shepherds in the Caucasus Mountains bred these dogs to protect livestock from wolves, bears, and jackals. The name describes their job.
Ready to Find a Caucasian Shepherd?
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Quick Facts
- Group: Working / Guardian
- Origin: Caucasus Mountains
- Also Called: Caucasian Mountain Shepherd, Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Wolfhound
- AKC Status: Foundation Stock Service
- UKC Status: Guardian Dog Group
- FCI Group: Group 2, Molossian
- Purpose: Livestock Guardian, Family Protector
- Exercise: Moderate
- Grooming: Weekly brushing, heavy shedding twice yearly
- Training: Experienced owners only
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