Caucasian Shepherd Dog

2015-03-31 (last modified: 2021-04-13)

by Volodumur Gyzhyi

Other specialists think the direct ancestor of the Caucasian Shepherd is the Tibetan mastiff, which is described in 1845 by writer Yuattan. Tibetan Mastiff is large, very ferocious, very powerful dog with a short head, sufficiently broad face and with folds of skin on the forehead. The ancestors of the Tibetan Mastiff are dogs look like wolves, which were trained intensively in China for people’s manhunt. The first mention of these dogs refers to 1121 BC. Coming from the east, the ancient dogs spread in the Caucasus and were used as fighting, pickling and herding-guard dogs. According to one of many versions, the Caucasian shep originated from the so-called Assyrian fighting dogs, came to Greece with the armies of Alexander the Great and was called there "Molosser". Further, the breed has spread to Europe, where it received the name of Molosser dogs. In the UK, these dogs were called Mastiffs. In fact Caucasian Shepherd is a wolfhound. The main purpose of a dog of this breed is the protection of flocks, protecting them from wild animals. Such qualities developed in these animals: strength, agility and also courage, impressive ruggedness, huge stamina that allowed people to use Shepherds at guard duties. Dogs of this breed are quite angry, suspicious, aggressive, have a natural sensitivity, ability to train and dedication to the master. Beyond that, these dogs haven’t a hunting instinct, breaking away from other dogs which guard the flock, causing them to walk in the footsteps of wild animals and attacking pets. That is why the Caucasian Shepherd is one of the best guard dogs. Active defense reaction of a Caucasian Shepherd is the basis of the use of dogs to guard the flock, and the shepherd's home, is economically useful form of animal behaviour and the main breeding characteristic that leads selection of Shepherds intended for guard duties. In the Border Troops and in MIA these dogs are not used because of its sindependent and solid character. Caucasian shepherd dogs are quite affectionate, unconditionally obey to the one owner, they can’t stand other people, do not touch them but can attack them. These dogs hardly get over the change of ownership. If the master changes in the kennel, Shepherds often go out of hand.