🐕‍🦺 X-Large · Caucasus (Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan)

Caucasian Shepherd Dog: Size, Weight & Temperament

A massive livestock guardian with a strong territorial and protective instinct that is fundamentally unsuitable for inexperienced owners given its size, strength, and firmness of character.

! Experienced only
Caucasian Shepherd Dog dog breed portrait
Photo: Pleple2000 · CC BY-SA 3.0 · Wikimedia Commons
Weight male50–80 kg
Weight female45–65 kg
Shoulder height64–75 cm
Size classX-Large (over 45 kg)
Fully grownat approx. 24 months
Life expectancy10–12 years
Activity levelModerate
OriginCaucasus (Russia, Georgia, Azerbaijan)
ClassificationFCI Group 2 (Pinscher and Schnauzer, Molossoid and Swiss Mountain and Cattle Dogs)
Temperament & character

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is independent, wary of strangers, and territorial by nature, yet loyal and protective toward its family. Its original livestock-guarding instinct is strong and can hardly be trained away.

Exercise & stimulation

Exercise needs are moderate; it prefers patrolling its territory to covering long distances. Off-leash time should only take place on its own securely fenced property because of its protective instinct.

Grooming

The dense, long coat needs regular brushing, especially during heavy shedding. Given its size, adequate space and a sturdy fence are essential.

Suitable for beginners?

Its strong protective and territorial instinct makes it unsuitable for novices and inexperienced owners; consistent early socialization is essential. Without competent leadership, the breed can pose a considerable safety risk.

Health & common problems

As a giant breed, regular weighing is important to catch obesity early; hip dysplasia and heart disease are also breed-typical. Slow, controlled growth as a puppy is strongly recommended.

Good with: Very experienced owners with a large, securely fenced property

Is your Caucasian Shepherd Dog at a healthy weight? Calculate the ideal weight and the right portion size for free in the Souldog app.

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This information is for general guidance and does not replace veterinary or breeder advice. Temperament and health vary individually within every breed.