How to Get a Caucasian Ovcharka?

Once you have decided that you can commit to owning a Caucasian Ovcharka then the next step is to find the puppy of your dreams. Buying a Caucasian puppy is not as straightforward as looking on the internet – you won't find what you are looking for easily.

By Imogen Reed

Photo Credit: haroldmeerveld/Flickr CC

Caucasian Ovcharka research

The trick to finding a Caucasian Ovcharka (Caucasian Mountain Shepherd) puppy is research, research, and more research. You should only get your puppy from a dog breeding club or kennel. Sometimes it may be quite difficult to obtain it in the US where the breed is still considered to be rare.

If you decide to get your Caucasian Ovcharka straight from Russia it is advisable to ensure that your chosen club or kennel is registered with the Russian Cynological Federation (RCF) – that way you can be sure that your puppy has all the relevant documents. Any Russian dog breeder registered with the RCF must have a license for breeding so you can also be assured your puppy is from approved stock.

When considering what temperament you would like in your puppy you should decide what type of Caucasian Ovcharka you need. In other words consider whether you desire a working dog or a show dog, because these types of Caucasian Ovcharkas differ a lot.

Choosing a Caucasian Mountain dog for breeding or competing is not just a simple matter of buying a pedigree puppy. Potential champions need to be born from champions and therefore you need to take into account their ancestry.

Male or female Caucasian Mountain Shepherd?

Your next choice is whether to have a male or a female Caucasian Ovcharka puppy – this is entirely a personal choice. As a general rule, Caucasian males are usually bigger and stronger however that isn’t to say a bitch won't also grow to be rather large too.

Female Caucasians are better as family dog and are easier to train. Their guarding instincts are as sharp as the male Caucasian Ovcharkas but they are much softer and better with children. Caucasian Mountain Shepherd owners must be very responsible when introducing such a dog to their family, particularly children. Like with any large breed, it is essential that as a puppy and growing up to adulthood, your dog is respected as the animal that it is.

Caucasian Ovcharka males can be extremely difficult as they have embedded fighting instincts and characteristics. As a result, males require a very strong pack leader as they are unlikely to respond well to a weak and inexperienced owner. Think carefully before taking on a male Caucasian Ovcharka as they will always try to dominate their owner so you would need to be very strong-willed and experienced with the breed. A Caucasian Ovcharka male that dominates its owner is a very dangerous scenario indeed.

Responsible Caucasian Ovcharka breeder

In purchasing a Caucasian Ovcharka puppy it is imperative you find and work with a responsible breeder. You will need to discuss with them everything in order to get the best start for you and your puppy. The breeder will also give you invaluable advice about feeding and nurturing your puppy, and tips on how to raise them and be a responsible owner to them. A Caucasian Mountain Dog breeder will also ensure your puppy has the relevant vaccinations and provide you with an up-to-date international veterinary passport.

Always seek out a Caucasian Ovcharka specialist as even people who think they know dogs don’t necessarily understand this breed. When seeking veterinary care it is advisable again to speak with your breeder as they should have already established good links with a vet who has experience of the Caucasian Ovcharka breed.

One thing any breeder cannot do is guarantee your dog will be a champion even if bred from champions. The hard work is down to you as an owner to get that part right and ensure you develop your Caucasian Mountain Shepherd to be the best it can be.

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