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Caucasian Shepherd

Loved by 68% of pet parents

Powerful, loyal, and protective, this giant breed forms a strong bond with its family. Renowned for courage and independence, it thrives as both guardian and devoted companion.

Breed Characteristics

Friendliness

Energy

Trainability

Playfulness

Adaptability

Average sizes and life expectancy of the breed.

HEIGHT

67–75 cm (male)

64–70 cm (female)

WEIGHT

50–100 kg (male)

45–80 kg (female)

LIFE EXPECTANCY

10–12 years

Caucasian Shepherd: Breed snapshot

Everything you need to know about this beloved breed at a glance

Key Breed Characteristics

Kingdom

Animalia

Phylum

Chordata

Class

Mammalia

Order

Carnivora

Family

Canidae

Genus

Canis

Species

Canis lupus familiaris

Diet

Omnivore

"A Caucasian Shepherd isn't just a pet — they're a loyal companion, a playful friend, and a loving family member all in one."

Temperament & personality

Understanding Caucasian Shepherd's temperament is key to knowing if they're the right match for your lifestyle.

Personality Overview

The Caucasian Shepherd is confident, protective, and independent, often displaying strong loyalty to family but reserved or wary toward strangers. They are known for their natural guarding instincts.

Key Personality Traits

Friendliness

Reserved and wary with strangers, loyal to family

Intelligence

Learns commands quickly, strong problem-solving skills

Energy Level

Generally calm, moderate activity needs

Playfulness

Not very playful, prefers work to games

Adaptability

Struggles with change, prefers familiar routines

Strengths

Excellent livestock guardian instincts
Strong protective nature with family
High tolerance for cold weather
Loyal and devoted to owners
Impressive deterrent against intruders

Challenges

Requires experienced and firm handler
Potential for aggression with strangers
Needs extensive early socialization
Prone to stubborn or independent behavior
Requires large, secure outdoor space

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Intelligence & exercise needs

Caucasian Shepherds are both highly intelligent and energetic, requiring mental and physical stimulation to thrive.

🧠 Intelligence & training

Trainability

Learns with consistency

Overall rating

This breed is intelligent but can be stubborn and strong-willed, responding best to experienced handlers using consistent, positive training methods. Early socialization and firm guidance are essential for success.

Trainable Tasks:

Perimeter patrol training

Boundary enforcement commands

Livestock guardian tasks

Controlled leash walking

Alert barking on command

Emergency recall training

🏃 Exercise & energy levels

Daily Exercise

60–90 minutes daily

recommended per day

Caucasian Shepherds have moderate exercise needs and benefit from daily walks and secure outdoor time. Mental stimulation and purposeful activities help prevent boredom and support their overall well-being.

Recommended Activities:

Guarding livestock outdoors

Long daily walks

Supervised free running

Scent tracking games

Agility obstacle courses

Structured play sessions

Is this breed right for you?

Caucasian Shepherds are versatile dogs that adapt well to many lifestyles, but they're not the perfect match for everyone. Here's a quick guide to help you determine if a Caucasian Shepherd would fit well in your home.