Caucasian Shepherd Dog
A massive guardian with a thick coat, the Caucasian Shepherd is utterly loyal to its family and formidable towards intruders.
Caucasian Shepherd Dog vs Central Asian Shepherd Dog
Side by side
| Trait | Caucasian Shepherd Dog | Central Asian Shepherd Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Pinschers, molossers and mountain dogs | Pinschers, molossers and mountain dogs |
| Size | Giant | Giant |
| Weight | 45–80 kg | 40–80 kg |
| Height at withers | 64–75 cm | 65–78 cm |
| Life expectancy | 10–12 years | 12–15 years |
| Energy | ||
| With children | ||
| With other dogs | ||
| Trainability | ||
| Grooming needs | ||
| Shedding | ||
| Heat tolerance | ||
| Apartment | Not recommended | Not recommended |
Key differences
- Longer life expectancy: Central Asian Shepherd Dog (about 13.5 years vs 11 years on average)
- Copes better with heat: Central Asian Shepherd Dog (4/5 vs 2/5)
Gaps counted as key differences: more than 20% in average weight, more than 10% in average height, at least 2 years in average life expectancy, or at least 2 points on a rating.
Which one is right for you?
A quick guide based on the ratings above. Every dog is an individual: spend time with the breed and talk to breeders, rescue organisations or a veterinarian before deciding.
- Apartment living
- Both are similarBased on apartment suitability and energy.
- Family with children
- Both are similarBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Central Asian Shepherd Dog is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Central Asian Shepherd Dog
An ancient livestock guardian of the steppes, the Central Asian Shepherd is powerful, independent and highly protective, for experienced owners only.