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Caucasian Shepherd | A Massive Prison

Guard DogHome Caucasian Shepherd | A Massive Prison Guard Dog

Caucasian Shepherd Dog Breed

The Caucasian shepherd is admittedly one of the ferocious dog breeds. In keeping

with its temperament and character, the Caucasian shepherd is a massive looking dog

with strong and muscular body. The steadfast loyalty and unwavering dedication of

this dog has made it an ideal police and guard dog throughout Europe and the

erstwhile Soviet Union member states. This dog is known as Caucasian Shepherd in

Europe and as Caucasian Mountain Dog in America and Caucasian Ovcharka in

Russia. Their life expectancy is 11 to 12 years.The Caucasian shepherd dog is

recognized by the FCI as a guard and watch dog and their present population is now

estimated to be between 200 and 300. In late 2010 an application was submitted for

recognition of these dogs by the Kennel Club.

Table Of Contents

Origin of the Caucasian Shepherd

Appearance of the breed Temperament

Living Conditions

Successful Ownership of Caucasian Shepherds

Obedience Training

Grooming your Canine

Conclusion of the Dog Breed
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Caucasian Shepherd are used asRussian Prison Guard Dogsas well. The duties

include protection, deterring criminal behavior, as well as searching for prisoners.

Origin It is believed that Caucasian Shepherd Dog has originated from ancient breedof dogs from the Caucasian Range and the steppe regions of Southern Russia.

Historically Caucasian Shepherd dogs were trained for guarding and safe-keeping of

herds, flocks and human dwellings from beasts of prey and predators and strangers.

For ages, Caucasian dogs were completely isolated from others and confined to the

role of safeguarding shepherd. The present day Caucasian has evolved from the

aboriginal dogs of the Caucasus, and it is believed that some inventive breeders may

have infused blood from a number of Molloser breeds.There is also the presumption

that the ancestor of the Caucasian shepherd dog could be the Tibetan Dog, though it is

not the present day the Tibetan Mastiff, which is an English cloning of the ancient

dog. The history of the contemporary Caucasian shepherd dog is around 2,500 yearsold.

Dagestan region, being a Eurasian point with its peculiar historical, social and

geographical characteristics created this completely unique breed of Caucasian

shepherd dogs which ideally fulfilled the local environmental conditions.

Originating from this point the ways of the Caucasian breed and its Asian counterpart

went their different ways. They appeared as separated brothers brought up in different

conditions. Endowed with the necessary physical characteristics, these dogs were

trained and used to protect from two enemiesthe wolf and strangers.
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The Caucasian shepherd dog is recognized by the FCI as a guard and watch dog and

their present population is now estimated to be between 200 and 300. In late 2010 an

application was submitted for recognition by the Kennel Club.

Appearance

Caucasian Shepherd Dogs have strong bones, muscular build, a relatively short coat

and tall-looking with a light physique. Most of them weigh around 120 to 160 pounds.

The average height of a male dog is 29 inches and bitches are 26 inches.

They have a bear-look face, deeply set dark oval shaped eyes, round-shaped cropped

ears and lowly placed long tail. They possess a thick and water resistant double coat

and mostly found in shades of gray, brindle, yellow, rust, red or white.

In general, the well-bred Caucasian dog is robust and healthy. As with other large

breeds, the Caucasian should be at a minimum screened for hip and elbow dysplasia.

Hip and elbow dysplasia does afflict more than 50% of the breed and hence breeders

should provide copies of OFA/Penn Hip elbow and hip evaluations to prospective

buyers.

Temperament

The Caucasian shepherd was predominantly used to protect livestock because of their

temperament. This breed is assertive, brave, alert, strong-willed, and daring. Unless

properly trained to behave, the Caucasian shepherd can be unruly, ferocious and

unmanageable. It resents strangers but has a powerful urge to defend its owner, their

family members, children, cats, other dogs.;They are formidable and zealous guardians of their owners and their families and who

can by default hate strangers and so caution is recommended. The Caucasian dog is

fiercely suspicious and even hostile and aggressive towards any strangers including

dog show referees. This dog needs a lot of socializing and training. It communicates

its displeasure with growling and occasionally biting.

Living conditions

The Caucasian shepherd is not at ease living in an apartment or in-house. They need

a lot of space to roam around and you must be prepared to provide a large yard. You

must allow this breed of dog safely run free in an open area.

Its thick coat protects it admirably well against weather conditions and it can

effortlessly cope with living out-doorsbut there must be a proper shelter. They

should be taken out for a long walk when you can make the stretch and heel.

Dogs of this breed are generally robust, healthy and with fewer complaints. Some of

the common ailments are hip dysplasia, obesity and occasional cardiac problems. Its

recommended that a joint supplement for dogs is used to avoid hip and bone issues.


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Pictured above is a Caucasian Shepherd during protection training. When trained

correctly and by professional trainers, this breed of dog makes an excellent guard dog.

Successful Ownership

The breed is notoriously famous for its uncanny ability to discriminate between real

threat and harmless interference. Rather, the Caucasian shepherd dog is able toexercise sound judgment provided he has been given the proper socialization, dog

training, and experience on which to base this judgment.

Socialization, training, discipline, control are the key factors to successful ownership

of the Caucasian shepherd dog in todays fast-paced society. Training of Caucasian

shepherd dog must be firm, patient, and persistentBut the Caucasian dog breed is

one of the most willing and compliant of the flock guardians and is therefore very

trainable.

These dogs need to be trained to obey, especially walk alongside you when going out

and follow the commands Sit Stand Wait Stop Eat No Heel etc.

Obedience Training

Several years of formal obedience training beginning right from early puppy days is

necessary. You should allow your dog to participate in family activities and should

accompany it 2 to 3 times per week for a quick jaunt to the bank or grocery. Your

Caucasian should receive consistent, exposure to the outside world, so that he may

grow up to be a law-abiding canine citizen.

The Caucasian shepherd dog belongs to a very peculiar breed and needs a verythorough approach to its training. You should remember that the only assured base
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for training is a good relationship with your dog and the only means allowed is an

emotional bonding. To make your training task easier you should start to train the

puppy when it is 7 or 8 months old. However, the training should be restricted to

teaching obedience! Once properly socialized and well trained, the Caucasian dog is

gentle and loving with their owner and his/her family. It also behaves responsibly

with quiet, well-behaved children.

GroomingThese breeds possess two different varieties of coatsthe short-haired and the long-

haired. The coat of the long-haired variety requires regular brushing and you must pay

special attention to the spots where tangles may occur. The short-haired variety

requires infrequent grooming, but should still be combed and brushed.

Conclusion

Please understand that owning and controlling a Caucasian shepherd dog is an

intimidating task. This fiercely independent and brutally strong-willed dog will obey

and respect only a dominating an equally strong-willed owner. Highly intelligent, theCaucasian Shepherd Dog will find many inventive ways to get into trouble. It has a

keen sense of hearing and is ever vigilant and alert to strange sounds. This means that

the breed is often noisy and barks a lot, especially at night. You must carefully

consider these traits and act suitably. Obedience training and early socialization is

inescapable for this breed. If you are diffident about training and commanding this

dog, then it is wise to stay away and opt for some gentler breeds of dogs.

Related topics:


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Top 10 Best Guard Dogs | Best

Protection Dogs

Home Top 10 Best Guard Dogs | Best Protection Dogs

By owning one of the best guard dogs you can create a safe and secure home and

ensure that you have a well protected family. There are a number of capable and

family orientedguard dogsthat would be suitable for watch dogs or even personal

protection dogs. However, these are the top 10 best guard dogs in no particular order.

When looking for a capable protector you have to take into consideration the

following traits in canines: Train-ability, Stability, ability to process the difference

between an actual threat and a family member or friend, alertness, size, speed, and

strength.

These are just 5 of the top 10 best guard dogs. The best canines for

home protection, attack training, and criminal deterrence depend on

a breed that is completely fearless.

1. The Belgian Malinois

Belgian malinois Guard dog training commonly known as schutzhund training.Commonly used asRussian Prison Dogs.

There are four types of Belgian shepherding canines. One of these dogs is the Belgian

Malinois. This breed is often mistaken for the German Shepherd Dog. However, the

Malinois is has a more elegant structure and have a lighter build. However, the

decrease in size doesnt take away any strength or drive. This breed is often used by

police and military for its train-ability, intelligence, high energy level, and over all

work ethic. When trained properly, this breed is a force to be reckoned with,

especially as a Russian Prison Dog. This breed is considered one of the best guard

dogs by police and military.
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2. The American Pit Bull Terrier

The American Pit Bull excels Guard Dog Training due to their amazing athleticability and willingness to please their owners.

One of the most misunderstood and stereotyped breeds is theAmerican Pit Bull

Terrier.Due to the fact of negative media attention and the victim of poor owners, this

breeds reputation has been tarnished over the years. However, this breed not only

makes an outstanding family dog, they make an excellent home protector as well.

This breed is extremely athletic, intelligent, and strong. When trained properly, they

make excellent guard dogs. Training should be extensive and done by professionals.

As with any breed, Training A Protection Dog should never be done halfheartedly.

Extensive hours of protection training are required to properly train any breed of

canine. While most traditional trainers wouldnt choose this breed as one of their top

picks as the best guard dogs, those that have tried were overly impressed by this

breeds abilities.

Pictured above: The American Pit Bull Terrier working in protection work with hisowner. This dog breed is highly intelligent and trainable for any task. They are the

number one pick for bomb detection dogs since this is a breed with an incredible

amount of stamina and willingness to please. They are a dog breed that just refuses to

give up.
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3. The Cane Corso

The cane corso excels in attack dog training due to their massive size and ability tohandle intruders of any size.

The Cane Corso is a very large boned and muscular dog breed. This dog carries

themselves very powerfully and are a noble breed. This is one of the two native Italian

mastiff type breeds that are direct descendants of the Roman Canis Pugnaces. This

breeds name comes from the latin language Cohors. Which in Latin terms means

protector as well as guardian which is suitable for one of the top guard dogs. This may

be a massive dog breed, but they still remain gentle with their family as well as

children, making them rank in the top 10 best guard dogs.
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4. The Rottweiler

The Rottweiler Protection Dog shown in this image is sponsored by Bully Max DogSupplements.

TheRottweileris a strong and muscular dog breed weighing in well over one hundred

pounds depending on its bloodline. This breed strives on being given a task to

perform and are happiest when performing these tasks. They are a smart and obedient

dog breed that would make an excellent service dog, police dog, protection dogs, or

even a therapy dog. They are an inherent protector that is confident and responds

quietly to situations. This dog breed analyzes his environment before reacting. Some

dog breeders prefer the rottweiler as their number one choice in personal protection

dogs.
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5. The Dogo Argentino

A dogo argentino working a man in a bite suit

The Dogo Argentino is a muscular dog breed that is very large and has a white hair

coat. It was bred in Argentina specifically as a big game hunting dog. This included

pumas as well as wild boar. The breeder of this dog was a man by the name of

Antonio Martinez. He wanted to create a dog that showed bravery and a willingness

to protect its owner to the death. It was first created in 1928 by breeding the Cordoba

Fighting Dog along with a wide variety of other dog breeds that included the Great

Dane, Irish Wolfhound, Boxer, as well as the Great Pyreness. Due to its genetic

makeup, it would not only make a great companion, but a very suitable Russian

Prison Dog. They are without a doubt one of the best protection dogs.

Links and resources:
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Caucasian Shepherd Dog

(Caucasian Sheepdog) (Caucasian Ovcharka) (KavkaskaiaOvtcharka) (Caucasian Owcharka) (Caucasian Mountain Dog) (SageGhafghazi) (Kavkazskaa Ovtcharka) (Caucasian Ovtcharka) (RussianCaucasian Ovtcharka) (Russian Caucasian)

"This majestic fellow is Tszakar, a purebred Caucasian Ovcharka imported from

Russia by ThunderHawk Caucasians. Of giant size and legendary protection ability,

this ancient and rare flock-guardian breed originated in the Caucasus Mountains of

the former Soviet Union. Tszakar and friends appeared in the National Geographic

Special, "Designer Dogs"a clip is available on the ThunderHawk website.

Considered a natural breed, National Geographic presented the Caucasian in this

documentary as an alternative to man-made breeds."Photo courtesy of ThunderHawk

Caucasians


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Find a Caucasian Shepherd Dog BreederPlace an Ad

Rescue a Caucasian Shepherd DogList Your Rescue

Description

The Caucasian Shepherd has moderate deep-set, darkeyes. The ears are densely covered with hair forinsulation. The hips are slightly raised from the line of theback. The tail is profusely covered with long feathering ofheavy hair. The forelimbs are long, straight and densely

boned. The paws are large and heavy, with hair between thetoes, providing excellent insulation and protection. The noseis black and prominent with well opened, large nostrils. Thethick, dense, weather-resistant coat has profuse featheringand is especially effective at keeping out the cold. Puppycoats are finer then adult coats. Colors vary from gray, fawn,tan, pied, brindle and white. The FCI prohibits brown dogs. Inits native country the Caucasian Ovtcharka's ears arecropped short.

Temperament

The Caucasian Shepherd's original purpose was to protect

livestock. The typical Caucasian Ovtcharka is assertive,strong-willed and courageous. Unless properly socialized andtrained, the Caucasian Shepherd may exhibit ferocious andunmanageable tendencies. It is very brave, alert, strong andhardy. It does not accept people it does not know and it has apowerful urge to defend. Everything and everyone whobelongs to the family, including children, cats, other dogs,etc., will be regarded by this dog as part of "its" family andwill be respected and protected. This dog should not be leftalone with children, because if play becomes too rough, theCaucasian Ovtcharka my feel the need to protect your child,

and may do it extensively. It has no time for strangers, but itwill greet family friends warmly. It can be rather dominanttoward other dogs it does not know. Some German fanciersemploy the dogs as foremost guardians and deterrents. Thisis not a dog for everyone. It requires an owner who knowshow to display strong leadership and who is willing to spenda lot of time socializing and training. The objective in trainingthis dog is toachieve pack leader status.It is a naturalinstinct for a dog to have anorder in its pack.When wehumans live with dogs,we become their pack. The entirepack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly

defined and rules are set. Because adog communicateshisdispleasure with growling and eventually biting, all other
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humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. Thehumans must be the ones making the decisions, not thedogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dogcan be a complete success.

Height, weight Height: 25 - 28 inches (64 - 72 cm)Weight: 99 - 154 pounds (45 - 70 kg)

HealthProblems

-

LivingConditions

The Caucasian Shepherd is not recommended for apartmentlife. They need space and will do best with at least a largeyard. Because its thick coat protects it so well, it can happilycope with living outdoors provided it has proper shelter.

Exercise

This breed of dog is best suited to a family with lots of spacesurrounding the home where it can safely run free in an openarea. When not working as a livestock guard, it should betaken for adaily, long walkwhere the dog is made to heel. Itshould never be allowed to walk out in front of the personholding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way,and that leader needs to be the human.

LifeExpectancy

About 10-11 years

Grooming

There are two coat varieties: short and long. The coat of thelong-haired variety requires frequent brushings, payingspecial attention to the spots where tangles may occur. Theshorthaired variety needs less grooming, but should still becombed and brushed.

Origin

The Caucasian Shepherd is a flock guardian developed frompre-historic molosser breeds in Caucasus by localherders. Caucasians are used to protect sheep frompredators and thieves. These dogs always attracteverybodys attention due to outstanding working qualities

and a striking appearance. The lack of organized kennelclubs and written standards partly explains whythe Caucasian Ovtcharka varied in type from country tocountry and even from locale to locale. For centuries, flocksof sheep have existed in Caucasia, the mountainous landmass between the Black and Caspian seas and neighboringTurkey and Iran. Dogs similar to this superb guardianhave protected these sheep from both humans and animalpredators for at least 600 years. The Caucasian Shepherd ismost popular in Russia. "Ovtcharka" means "sheepdog" inRussian. In Russia and other parts of the former Soviet

Union, it is commonly shown at dog shows. In Hungary,Poland and the Czech and Slovak Republics, extensive
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breeding programs are ensuring that it remains a populardog, even though its original use as a sheep guardian isdeclining. The Caucasian Ovtcharka arrived in East Germanyin the late 1960s to serve as a border patrol dog, especiallyalong the Berlin Wall. In 1989, when the Wall came down, the7,000-strong band of patrol dogs was dispersed. Many ofthese dogs were given new homes with families throughoutGermany. Careful breeding in Germany safeguards the futureof this cautious and independent dog. It is likely that as itspopularity increases, breeders will selectively breed out someof the fiercest protective personalities.

Group Flock Guard

Recognition FCI, NKC, CKC, APRI, ACR, DRA, NAPR, AKC/FSS


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The Ovcharkas -What Are They?

Alisa's puppies (born on January 23, 2004).

Contents

1. Introduction

2. Origin

3. Physical Characteristics

4. Behavior5. Assorted Photos

6. Clubs and Breeders in the US

7. [NEW!] English-Russian Dictionary of Dog Terms

Introduction

The word "ovcharka" (often

spelled "ovtcharka", or

"owtcharka"; pronounced

"uhf-'chAr-ka") is a Russianword meaning something
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between "livestock guardian dog", "shepherd's dog" and "sheepdog". In the Russian

language "ovcharka" is used as a suffix in the names of many working breeds,

including those that are not native to Russia, such as the German Shepherd Dog

(nemetskaya ovcharka), Belgian Sheepdog (bel'giyskaya ovcharka), and many others.

This may be somewhat confusing to a non-Russian reading Russian publications on

dog breeds. The Ovcharkas native to Russia and/or the countries of the former SovietUnion include the following four breeds: the Caucasian Ovcharka (also known as:

Kavkazskaya Ovcharka; Caucasian Shepherd or Sheepdog), Central Asian Ovcharka

(other names include: Sredneaziatskaya Ovcharka; Central Asiatic Ovcharka; Central

Asia Shepherd Dog; Middle Asian Ovcharka; Mid-Asiatic Sheepdog), South Russian

Ovcharka (also referred to as Youzhnorusskaya Ovcharka or South Russian

Sheepdog), and the East European Ovcharka.

Origin

The Caucasian and Central Asian Ovcharkas are ancient breeds belonging to the

Asiatic type of dogs akin to the Tibetan Mastiff. Both breeds were originally bred by

the shepherds for the protection of their livestock against large predators, such as

wolves and leopards. The Caucasian Ovcharka comes from the Caucasus (both its

mountain area, and the adjacent plains), which is the territory of the following modern

states: Armenia, Azerbaijan, Georgia, and Russia. The Central Asian Ovcharka

originated in Central Asia, the huge region stretching from Caspian Sea in the west to

the Pamirs in the east, and from the border between Russia and Iran and Afghanistan

in the south to South Siberia in the north. Six modern countries - Kazakhstan,

Kirghizstan, Uzbekistan, Tajikistan, Turkmenistan, and Russia - currently share that

territory.

The ancestors of the South Russian Ovcharka arrived in the steppe regions of South

Russia, the Crimea plains, with the flocks of Merino sheep from Spain in the 18th

century. Those relatively small sheepdogs soon drew the attention of the local

shepherds. However, despite the dogs' outstanding ability to herd the flocks, they had

a weak constitution making them vulnerable to predators, such as the steppe wolf, and

the severe Russian climate. Yet, the steppe wolf was not so dangerous after all; most

importantly, the local landowners wanted the dog to be able to protect their flocks,

property and the game on their land against the much more serious threat of the

Crimea Tartar thieves and poachers, who usually made their raids mounted. The

canine newcomers from Spain were mixed with the Deerhound, Irish Wolfhound, and

the dogs of the Tibetan origin. This crossing resulted in the large, rapid and agile dogthat excelled in two different jobs: it could both help the shepherds to herd the flocks,

and guard the livestock, property and game against the predators, thieves and

poachers, even from the horsemen.

The Caucasian, Central Asian, and South Russian Ovcharkas were later bred and

perfected in the Soviet Union in the state-run kennels for the needs of the Army and

the police, as well as the plant and warehouse security and livestock protection work.

All efforts have been made to preserve the outstanding working abilities, strength and

beauty of these breeds.

Unlike the Caucasian, Central Asian and South Russian Ovcharkas, the East EuropeanOvcharka is a relatively young breed. Its direct ancestor was the German Shepherd


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Dog, which was introduced in Russia in 1904. In 1924 the German Shepherd Dog was

chosen to become the main service breed in the Soviet Union for the needs of the Red

Army and Stalin's Gulag, to guard millions of people sent to Siberian prison camps.

However, the German Shepherd Dog of the original type did not fully match the

Army and Gulag's requirements. Dogs with greater stamina, resistance to cold

weather, stronger bite and better ability to fight people were needed. The carefulbreeding program was successful and resulted in the breed later called the East

European Ovcharka. Although this breed remains one of the most popular working

breeds in its native land, it is still not widely recognized outside Russia and often not

distinguished from the "overgrown" German Shepherd Dog. Unfortunately, at the

present time, no official standard exists for this breed; nor are carefully planned

breeding programs followed by the clubs and breeding kennels, so the future of the

East European Ovcharka is uncertain.

Physical characteristics

The Ovcharkas are powerful dogs of large or giant size. The Caucasian and CentralAsian Ovcharkas have a powerful bone structure and a massive head. Compared to

the first two Ovcharkas, the South Russian Ovcharka has a lighter build and is a little

leggier. When shorn of its wool, it looks remarkably similar to the Doberman Pincher.

The East European Ovcharka has sturdy, muscular, slightly elongated body with a

solid bone structure.

Breed

Height in withers (in) Weight (lb.)**

Dogs Bitches Dogs Bitches

Caucasian >25.6* >24.4* 132-198 88-143

Central Asian >25.6* >23.6* 121-176 88-143

South Russian >25.6* >22.8* 88-132 77-99

East European*** 26.3-27.6 23.6-25.6 90-154 80-120

*Lower limit. Upper limit is not set by the standard.**Approximate figures. Weight is not set by the standards.

***At present time, there is no official standard for this breed.


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The Caucasian Ovcharka has a

long or medium-length coat

with a well- developed

undercoat. The most typical

color is agouti gray. Other

colors are allowed, except for

red-and-white, solid black,

black- and-tan, and solid

brown. Ears are cropped

short, and this, along with

long fur on the sides of its

head, gives the dog a bear-like

appearance.

The Central Asian Ovcharka

has a short, dense, close- lying

coat with well-developed

undercoat; it is said that do

not stick to it. White, black,

gray, fawn, reddish fawn and

brindle colors are most

common. Its ears are usually

cropped, and the tail is

docked.

The South Russian Ovcharka is covered with a very long, dense and slightly wavy

double coat, which should be white or cream. Its ears are small and covered with long

fur.

The East European Ovcharka has a short, close-lying and very dense double coat,

which is black, black-and-tan, gray, or fawn, with no white spots allowed. Completely

white color is permissible. Its ears are erect and set high.

Behavior

All the Ovcharkas are well-balanced and even-tempered, suspicious of and aggressive

toward strangers. However, the temperaments of these four breeds have a lot of

features that make these breeds remarkably different from each other.

As already noted, the Caucasian and Central Asian Ovcharkas were bred to protect the

livestock from large predators, often with no man's assistance, rather than to herd the

flocks under the supervision of the shepherd.(Read this real-life story!)This work

made them very intelligent (as it comes to problem solving and making decisions)

and, at the same time, very independent and strong-willed; they (esp., the Caucasians)are not easily trained for obedience. Typical of these two breeds is a somewhat low
http://www.rassokhin.com/personal/LehighGorge/Animals.htmlhttp://www.rassokhin.com/personal/LehighGorge/Animals.htmlhttp://www.rassokhin.com/personal/LehighGorge/Animals.htmlhttp://www.rassokhin.com/personal/LehighGorge/Animals.html


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activity level with an ability to instantly "explode" in the minutes of danger. Such a

dog can look like a large phlegmatic lazybones to an intruder, until he comes too close

to the dog and it's too late to run away. This interesting feature stems from the fact

that more active dogs with higher "energy consumption rate" would not have survived

in the conditions of the harsh weather, hard work and scarce feeding, under which

these breeds developed.

The East European Ovcharka's personality originates from its past as a herding dog: it

is very intelligent, obedient and easily trained. As a guard dog, it can display its fine

reflexes, lightning-quick attack and an ability to differentiate between "good" and

"bad" guys.

The South Russian Ovcharka's personality combines the features of both a livestock

guardian, and a herding dog. The experts say that South Russians are similar to

Dobermans not only in their build, but also in the temperament: it is very intelligent,

energetic and impetuous. Being more submissive to its master than the Caucasian and

Central Asian Ovcharkas, the South Russians still sometimes display too highaggressiveness toward other animals and people, which the owner should be prepared

to deal with.

Assorted pictures of Alisa


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Alisa would make an excellent hunting dog for big game; unfortunately, hunting big

game with dogs is illegal in Pennsylvania, so I can only take Alisa with me when

hunting squirrels and coyotes.

Clubs and

Breeders in the

US

My Central Asian

Ovcharka Alisa

RUSDOGwas bred

by Anna Frumina.

Need more info? Visitthis site again, I am

going to update

Anna's contact info

soon. You can also

send me an email (see

contact info below).

All pictures in this

site are digitallywatermarked and


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some of them are copyrighted by Webster Publishing. If you want to use any, ask

me first!

(C) D


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Central Asian Shepherd Dog

From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

Jump to:navigation,search

Central Asian Shepherd dog

Other namesRus.-

(Sredneaziatskaya Ovtcharka)

Nicknames

Central Asian Ovtcharka

CAO

Aziat

Country of

originRussia

[1]

[hide]Traits

[show]Classification and standards

Dog(Canis lupus familiaris)

The Central AsianOvcharka(/vtrk/;Russian:

[srdnazatskj ftark])is recognized byFCI,as aMolossoidtypedogbreedof

Russian origin.[1]Most breed representatives reside inRussia,and local kennel club

officials refer to Central Asians as one of the most popular dog breeds in the country,

often rating it as the #1 breed.[2]
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Contents

1 History

2 General appearance

3 Temperament

4 Exercise 5 Grooming

6 Working requirements and tests

7 Classification

8 References

9 External links

History

Central Asians most likely originated in a geographical area between theUral,

Caspian Sea,Asia Minor,and the Northwest border ofChina.[3]AboriginalCentral

Asians as well as mixes still can be found in its countries of origin, such as

Kyrgyzstan,Tadzhikistan,Turkmenistan,Kazakhstan,Afghanistan,Uzbekistanand

surrounding countries.[4]Some serve as livestock guardians, some protect their

owners, and some are used fordog fighting,which is a national tradition in many

countries of that region. This breed bears a stronggeneticsimilarity to other

aboriginal breeds of Livestock Guardian dogs from that region such as Northern

Caucasian Volkodav,Kangal dog,andAkbash.[5]

Central Asian Shepherd Dog. Young male

Central Asian puppy and young goat

Russianbiologistsandscientistshave studied the local dog population[6]since the18th century. After the Communist revolution,the Soviet government focused on

working dog breeds for the Red Army, and imported the best breed representatives toRussia as per military dogs' and guard dogs' requirements. Over the decades, this
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0%BB%D0%BE%D0%B4%D0%BE%D0%B9_%D0%BA%D0%BE%D0%B1%D0%B5%D0%BB%D1%8C.jpghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Communist_revolutionhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#cite_note-6http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Scientisthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Biologistshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#cite_note-5http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Akbashhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kangal_doghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Genehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dog_fightinghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#cite_note-4http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Uzbekistanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Afghanistanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kazakhstanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turkmenistanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tadzhikistanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyrgyzstanhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indigenous_peopleshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#cite_note-3http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chinahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Asia_Minorhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Caspian_Seahttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ural_Riverhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#External_linkshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#Referenceshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#Classificationhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#Working_requirements_and_testshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#Groominghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#Exercisehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#Temperamenthttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#General_appearancehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Central_Asian_Shepherd_Dog#History


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dogs differ from fighting dogs. There are different rules, and different breeds

involved. Most Central Asians used for modern commercial fights come from fighting

lines. The majority of breeders are aware of their dogs backgrounds, and will tell

whether the dog comes from lines used for fighting. One can always expect a high

level of aggression toward other dogs from CAOs with a dog fighting background. It

is always important to distinguish whether a dog will display aggression only towardstrange, unfriendly dogs entering their territory, while establishing and maintaining

the usual social relationships with other animals on the premises; or will attack

regardless of whether the other dog is a member of the same social group.

Promiscuity in aggression toward strangers and friends is highly atypical for the

breed.

Central Asians are still in demand as livestock guardians, though not nearly as much

as they used to be. These dogs, to differing degrees, are protective against human

intruders; they are very territorial, safe with children; they love and respect elderly

people, protect all small animals from predators, and are very gentle with family

members.[10]

Dogs for personal protection orworking dogsoriginated fromlivestock guardian

dogs,selectively bred by Russian breed experts for working abilities. As a result, they

excel in obedience, territory protection, and personal protection, and are very

intelligent. As such, they make perfect house dogs.[11]They do not need any

complicated training to learn basic house rules, and treat the owner with the same

great respect with which their ancestors treated the herder. These dogs were

introduced to the worldwidesheepbreeding community with great success. Guard

dogs must be able to work as a team to protect sheep againstpredators;thus

excessively aggressive CAOs, as with any other dogs, cannot be members of the pack,

and will not pass this simple test for compliance with the breed origination purpose.

Central Asian Shepherd dogs can come from working lines, fighting lines, and

livestock guardian lines, and behave accordingly, regardless of the country they come

from. Simple pedigree research and conversation with the breeder will reveal what

basic instincts one can expect from the dog. Central Asians from pure show lines are

very rare, because most registries require working tests prior to breeding.[12]

Selected for centuries for their abilities to destroy predators, and praised for their

power and stamina, Central Asians sometimes are called "Volkodav", "The Wolf

Crusher" in Russian. It is very important to select only stable dogs for breedingpurposes, and avoid starting protection training of dogs of this breed at early age.

General appearance

The breed presents a robust dog of greater than average size with great strength and

power. They are independent, curious and alert, yet imperturbable. The dog is as long

as it is tall at the withers, or slightly longer than its height. The hair is short or

moderately long with a heavy undercoat. Its ears are, in practice, cropped very short,

and the tail is docked moderately long (except for dogs from countries where

cosmetic surgeries for dogs are illegal). Most common colors are black/white; fawn of

different shades, from almost white to deep red;brindle.Some have ablack mask.The head is very solid, without pronounced stop or sculls. The neck is low set, short,
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withdewlap.The body is fairly broad, proportionate, muscles rather flat. The ribcage

appears very long because of developed false ribs. The legs are straight, with heavy

boning and moderate yet defined angulation. Leg bones must be in proportion, and

shall never give the impression that any bone is short. The rump is broad. The typical

gait is agallop;however CAO cantrotfor hours without wearing themselves out.[13]

Temperament

The Central Asian Shepherd Dog is a protective dog who bonds first to its human

caretaker and next with its perceived possessions. Bred to solve problems, it is

independent minded, strong, brave and responsible. It is a large but agile dog,

sometimes described as a cat in dog's clothing. With its strong guarding and territorial

instincts, it is not a breed for the novice owner.

Sensitive and smart, the Central Asian Shepherd responds best to someone who can

inspire loyalty while also providing strong leadership. Heavy-handed training will

backfire with this breed; but respectful, thoughtful training will yield an undyingly

devoted companion.

Exercise

The large Central Asian Shepherd Dog may spend a considerable amount of time

moving around in its native lands, and this kind of slow but steady exercise is what it

likes best. With a job to do and a piece of property to protect, it will find the highest

spot and keep an eye on all that happens.

Grooming

Neither the longhaired nor shorthaired coat require a lot of grooming, but the thick

undercoat results in heavy seasonal shedding twice a year.

Working requirements and tests

The Central Asian is a working breed of dog, and different breed fanciers

organizations issue sets or rules and recommendations important to preserve dogs

abilities to perform certain duties. This includes special tests to determine a dogs

inborn qualities, and training degrees or titles aimed to show what the dog can learn todo.

The National Breed Club in Russia developed atemperament testto reveal a dogs

willingness and ability to protect the premises, as well as titles in Obedience (such as

OKD), and in Protection (such as ZKS or KS) for dogs in most pedigrees from Russia

and other countries of that region. There are several other types of tests and training

titles, from simple to extremely complicated.

Breed Clubs in European countries seldom have requirements, while common dog

sports such asSchutzhundor IPO are not perfectly suitable for a Livestock Guardian

dog. Some European Union Countries developed special tests for large breeds of dogs
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aiming to reveal a dogs overall stability, such as TheMentality Assessment testin

Sweden.

Fight tests are common in countries where the breed is still in aboriginal stage, or in

the process of formation. Despite adverse reputation of commercial dog fights, fight

tests are aimed to reveal a dogs willingness and ability to fightpredators. In countrieswith highly developed open field sheepherding, major livestock herd losses may be

caused by predation from feral dogs andwolf-dog hybrids,and the livestock guardian

dogs must be able to protect the sheep from those. The fight tests were established to

maintain this important breed trait.

And, finally, the real life test for the Central Asian is simply to be a farm dog, or herd

protection dog, in any country. Information on Livestock Guardian dogs behavior and

specifics can be found atLivestock Guardian Dog Association.

Classification

Aziat is a versatile, universal breed, and fits under different descriptions at a time,

what is a reason for differentKennel Clubsto classify Central Asians under different

dog breed groups. RKF,FCI recognized Russian Kennel Club,classified Central

Asians as aworking dogbreed, reflecting tremendous results in obedience, protection

and military-related training. Modern breeding requirements by leading Kennel Club

in Russia include mandatory temperament test and training title, besides show rating.

UKCfit them together with other Flock Guardians of similar breeds, matching breed

natural sheep guarding abilities, proven by breeders and farmers in USA.FCI

classified them as Molossoid dogs, sometimes described in different languages as

Moloss orMolossertype dogs, likewise, reflecting the match by confirmation andcommon ancestry between CAO and related breeds.

References
http://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/118618232/HTMLSTART?CRETRY=1&SRETRY=0/Doghttp://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/118618232/HTMLSTART?CRETRY=1&SRETRY=0/Doghttp://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/118618232/HTMLSTART?CRETRY=1&SRETRY=0/Doghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf-dog_hybridhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf-dog_hybridhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf-dog_hybridhttp://www.lgd.org/http://www.lgd.org/http://www.lgd.org/http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kennel_Clubhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kennel_Clubhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kennel_Clubhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_kennel_clubshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_kennel_clubshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_kennel_clubshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Working_doghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Working_doghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Working_doghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kennel_Clubhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kennel_Clubhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%A9d%C3%A9ration_Cynologique_Internationalehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%A9d%C3%A9ration_Cynologique_Internationalehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%A9d%C3%A9ration_Cynologique_Internationalehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molosserhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molosserhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molosserhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Molosserhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/F%C3%A9d%C3%A9ration_Cynologique_Internationalehttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/United_Kennel_Clubhttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Working_doghttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_kennel_clubshttp://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kennel_Clubhttp://www.lgd.org/http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wolf-dog_hybridhttp://www3.interscience.wiley.com/cgi-bin/fulltext/118618232/HTMLSTART?CRETRY=1&SRETRY=0/Dog


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Central Asian Ovcharka Home /

O

For thousands of years, large, heavily-built dogs withcropped ears and tails have been used by the nomadic

tribes of Central Asia to protect livestock from predators

and other property from thieves. The breed developed as a

result of rather harsh natural selection. The climate in the

countries where the Central Asian Shepherd Dog

developed ranges from hot and dry, to bitterly cold and

windy. Only the hardiest of pups survived and only those

with strong guarding instincts were allowed to stay with

the flocks. Working Central Asian Shepherd Dogs are still

found today in Afghanistan, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kirgyzstan,

Tadjikistan, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan. The breed isstill very rare in the United States. The Central Asian

Shepherd Dog is a dog of great size with massive bone structure and powerfulmuscles. The body is slightly longer than tall. The head is massive. Ears are normally

cropped close to the head but are naturally small, drop, and set low on the head. The

tail is high set and thick at the base, and when undocked, hangs down to the hock with

a sickle shape. Two coat lengths are accepted, but all are double-coated and thick.

Gender differences are well expressed in this breed. Males are more massive and

powerful; females are smaller and lighter in build. Dogs should be presented in hard,

muscular condition. The Central Asian Shepherd Dog should be evaluated as a

working livestock guardian dog, and exaggerations or faults should be penalized in

proportion to how much they interfere with the dog's ability to work. Honorable scars

resulting from field work are not to be penalized. Fault: Obesity.

For centuries, the Central Asian Shepherd Dog worked alone or together with several

other dogs, without much intervention from the herdsmen, relying on its own

intelligence and instincts to do its job. While these dogs are very devoted to their

family members, they expect to be treated with respect. They are inclined to be

suspicious of strange people or dogs. Central Asians are steady, even-tempered dogs

who adjust well to change in their environment. When threatened, they react quickly

and with complete seriousness. Central Asians are slow to mature and require

extensive socialization and patient training techniques. This breed is hardy and able toadapt to a wide range of climates. Serious faults: Irritable, nervous or fearful dogs are

to be severely penalized.

This is 18 month old male Anchar Akksakal, from

kennel in USA"Alabaiusa" import from

Ukraine,with the direct best pedigree lines from the

most Famous and Legendary Alabai dogs from

Turkmenistan:Tahmed,Gaplan,Abas,Akbai,Mosad,

Kirizov's Babur,Red Elbars,BlackandWhiteEkimen's,Ak-Ekimen -II,Karim (Aizenberg)and so
http://alabaiusa.com/ekimen_bloodline.htmhttp://alabaiusa.com/ekimen_bloodline.htmhttp://alabaiusa.com/ekimen_bloodline.htmhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/tahmet.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/tahmet.jpghttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/gaplan_ayzenb.htmlhttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/gaplan_ayzenb.htmlhttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/gaplan_ayzenb.htmlhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Akbay.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Akbay.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Akbay.jpghttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/arhiv/cao/mosad.htmlhttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/arhiv/cao/mosad.htmlhttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/arhiv/cao/mosad.htmlhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/babur,Kjarizov.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/babur,Kjarizov.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/anc_RedElbars.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/anc_RedElbars.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/anc_RedElbars.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Black-ekimen.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Black-ekimen.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Black-ekimen.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/beliyekimenhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/beliyekimenhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/beliyekimenhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/beliyekimenhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/akkimen%202.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/akkimen%202.jpghttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/karim.htmlhttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/karim.htmlhttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/karim.htmlhttp://www.alabaiusa.com/http://www.alabaiusa.com/http://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/karim.htmlhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/akkimen%202.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/beliyekimenhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/beliyekimenhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Black-ekimen.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/anc_RedElbars.jpghttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/babur,Kjarizov.jpghttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/arhiv/cao/mosad.htmlhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/Akbay.jpghttp://www.security-dog.org/cao/cao_russia/cao/gaplan_ayzenb.htmlhttp://www.centralasianovcharka.com/images/tahmet.jpghttp://alabaiusa.com/ekimen_bloodline.htm


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on. Time is the true judge and the Turkmen Alabai, who passed his life test with

credit, lasting for 5 thousand years, has proved it. In the context of the pedigree of the

Middle Asian sheep dog, there are a lot of types of the dogs that is related to the

natural habitat of the origin of the Asian is quite large. Alabaiusa are determined to

have and to breed the powerful dog , but not overloaded, volumetric, but not raw, big,

but not long legged, with well developed guarding qualities.