The Caucasian Ovcharka is a big, strong-willed dog. It requires proper training and socialization from an equally strong-willed owner. Very smart, it responds to consistent, positive training. The Caucasian Ovcharka has an outstanding work ethic. If you work outdoors and can give it a job, by all means do.
As warm as it is with family, the Caucasian Ovcharka can be slightly suspicious of new people. It is a legendary watchdog. Protective and strong, this big old bear can be an intimidating presence to any stranger. With the proper training and socialization, it will be much more social.The Caucasian Ovcharka can live as long as 12 years with relatively few health problems; however, some may develop “big-dog” problems like hip dysplasia and heart conditions. Both short- and longhaired coats need regular brushing with special attention paid to tangles in the long coats.

The Caucasian Ovcharka has a large, powerful, muscular frame covered in a thick double coat (shorthaired or longhaired) that usually comes in shades of gray, red, rust, yellow, white or brindle. Its large, wedge-shaped head has an oblong muzzle, bushy, high-set ears and deeply set, oval-shaped eyes. It has a thick tail that usually hangs low or curls up slightly.

The Caucasian Ovcharka is one of the oldest surviving Molossers, originating in the Caucasus Mountains between the Black Sea and the Caspian Sea. Used to guard flocks, the Ovcharka (also known as the Caucasian Mountain Dog) was a formidable guard against predators, trespassers and thieves. Its strength and loyalty has made it a popular working dog, police dog and companion throughout Europe and the Soviet Union.