The Caucasian Ovcharka is a large and powerful breed, but how much will it set you back? The purchase price of a Caucasian Ovcharka puppy can range from $800 to $2,000.
To own a Caucasian Ovcharka, you'll need to consider ongoing expenses. The annual cost of owning one can range from $1,500 to $3,000, depending on factors like food, veterinary care, and supplies.
The initial cost of owning a Caucasian Ovcharka can be steep, but it's essential to consider the long-term commitment involved. With proper care and attention, a Caucasian Ovcharka can live up to 12 years or more.
What is a Caucasian Ovcharka?
The Caucasian Ovcharka is an ancient dog breed originating from the Caucasus region, known for its impressive size and protective instincts. They are a large breed, with males weighing between 120 and 150 pounds.
These dogs were originally bred to guard livestock, and their keen senses and strong prey drive make them well-suited for this task. They have a thick double coat that protects them from harsh mountain weather.
The Caucasian Ovcharka is a loyal and devoted breed, forming strong bonds with their family and territory. They are naturally wary of strangers and can be reserved around new people.
They are generally healthy, with an average lifespan of 12-15 years, but like all breeds, they can be prone to certain health issues. Regular exercise and a balanced diet are essential for maintaining their physical and mental well-being.
In terms of grooming, their thick coat requires regular brushing to prevent matting and tangling.
Physical Characteristics
Caucasian shepherds can grow quite large, standing 30 inches tall and weighing as much as 170 pounds.
They are a sexually dimorphic breed, meaning you can easily tell the difference between a male and a female Caucasian shepherd. Males are bigger, with larger heads and more muscle mass.
Male Caucasian shepherds are often shorter in body than females.
There are two types of Caucasian shepherds: mountain and steppe. The mountain type has a longer coat and a larger body mass.
The steppe type has a shorter coat and lighter body mass.
Caucasian shepherd colors cover a wide range of coat colors, including brindle, piebald, and white markings.
Their deep-set, dark eyes are both intelligent and striking.
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Traits and Behavior
The Caucasian Ovcharka is a loyal and protective breed, known for their strong guarding instincts. They are naturally suspicious of strangers and will defend their family and territory if necessary.
These dogs are highly intelligent and trainable, but they can be stubborn at times. They require consistent, patient training and positive reinforcement to reach their full potential.
Caucasian Ovcharkas are generally quiet dogs, but they will bark to alert their owners to potential threats. They are not excessive barkers, but they will sound the alarm when necessary.
Their independent nature can make them difficult to manage for inexperienced owners, but with the right training and socialization, they can thrive in a variety of living situations.
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Insurance and Costs
Pet insurance for Caucasian Ovcharkas costs more than for mixed breed dogs.
This is because Caucasians are more likely than mixed breed dogs to make claims for hereditary conditions that are expensive to treat.
The best time to get pet insurance for your Caucasian is when he's a healthy puppy.
You can't predict what will happen in the future, and pet insurance is the one thing you can't get when you need it the most.
Embrace dog insurance plans offer full coverage for all breed-specific conditions (excluding those that are pre-existing) to which Caucasian Ovcharkas are susceptible.
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Sources
- Caucasian Ovcharka: Dog Breed Info, Pictures, Facts, & ... (dogster.com)
- Caucasian Shepherd Dog Breed Information and Pictures (dogbreedinfo.com)
- Caucasian Shepherd Dog (Caucasian Ovcharka) (dailypaws.com)
- Caucasian Ovtcharka - Price, Temperament, Life span (dogbreedslist.info)
- Caucasian Ovcharkas | Embrace Dog breed Library (embracepetinsurance.com)
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