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 Kangal Shepherd Dog
Side by side
| Trait | Caucasian Shepherd Dog | Kangal Shepherd Dog |
|---|---|---|
| Group | Pinschers, molossers and mountain dogs | Pinschers, molossers and mountain dogs |
| Size | Giant | Giant |
| Weight | 45–80 kg | 40–65 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: Kangal Shepherd Dog (about 13.5 years vs 11 years on average)
- Copes better with heat: Kangal 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
- Kangal Shepherd Dog is the better fitBased on behaviour with children.
- First-time owner
- Both are similarBased on trainability, energy and grooming needs.
- Hot climate
- Kangal Shepherd Dog is the better fitBased on heat tolerance.
- Active owner
- Both are similarBased on energy level.
Meet the two breeds
Kangal Shepherd Dog
A large livestock guardian from Turkey, the Kangal is calm, independent and remarkably loyal to its family.