Shetland Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Shetland Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonShetland Sheepdog is originated from United Kingdom but Caucasian Shepherd is originated from Russia. Shetland Sheepdog may grow 34 cm / 13 inches shorter than Caucasian Shepherd. Shetland Sheepdog may weigh 88 kg / 194 pounds lesser than Caucasian Shepherd. Both Shetland Sheepdog and Caucasian Shepherd has almost same life span. Shetland Sheepdog may have less litter size than Caucasian Shepherd. Both Shetland Sheepdog and Caucasian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance.

History

shetland sheepdog - historyThe Shetland Sheepdog was crossed with working collies and brought to the islands. They were bred on the Shetland Islands, United Kingdom.

These little dogs have always been particularly valuable to farmers who used them to herd their sheep.

During the early 20th century other crosses occurred an in 1909 and the little dog received recognition by the English Kennel Club. The first Sheltie to be registered by the American Kennel Club was in 1911.

caucasian shepherd - historyThis working dog is more than 2 000 years old, hailing from the Caucasus Mountains near the Georgian Republic, Russia.

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed, always having been used to guard livestock in the mountains. Some believe they came from domesticated wolves, while others believe their ancestry includes Mastiffs and other breeds.

It was in the 1960s that the dog was used in Germany for patrol along the Berlin Wall. This dog is also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka and he is large and powerful, always being ready to take on anyone who threatens him or the livestock he is guarding.

His origins can be traced far back and eventually the dog found its ways to the USA where dog clubs were formed.The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest Molosser breeds, and today they are mostly appreciated for being wonderful family companions and watchdogs.

Basic Information

Group:
Herding dogs
Molosser dogs
Origin:
United Kingdom
Russia
Height Male:
33 - 41 cm
12 - 17 inches
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
Height Female:
33 - 41 cm
12 - 17 inches
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
6 - 12 kg
13 - 27 pounds
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
Weight Female:
6 - 12 kg
13 - 27 pounds
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 14 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 6
5 - 10
Size:
Small dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Sheltie
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
Colors Available:
Mix of colors - golden, black or a steel grey color with white
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
Coat:
Long and thick
Long haired, dense
Shedding:
Moderate, Seasonal
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Docile, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Quiet, Responsive, Sweet, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Description

shetland sheepdog puppy - descriptionThe small Shetland Sheepdog stands at between 33 to 41cm and weighs roughly between 6 and 12kg for both males and females. The long double coat of this dog sheds consistently, he will need to be brushed regularly.

The coat is golden, black or a steel grey color with white. The ears are erect and the tail long and feathery and the expression on this dogs face is sensitive, alert and gentle.

Temperament:

Shelties make wonderful pets for their human families and are great with children too. They’re protective, making good watchdogs. They are somewhat wary around strangers.

Smart and alert, you can train this little dog plenty of tricks because he is quick to learn. They’re such agile little dogs and are great athletes. It’s always a good idea to keep such a smart little dog busy so he doesn’t become bored.

He is able to adjust to life in the city or the countryside, so long as he is kept busy, otherwise he takes to a piercing kind of bark.

caucasian shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Caucasian Shepherd is a large, impressive looking dog standing at between 64 – 75cm in height and weighing between 45 – 70 kg. He has an almost bear-like appearance. His coat can be shortish or even fairly long, and in different colors such as white, tan, brindle, grey and cream with a black mask.

The puppies are born black and then lighten as they grow up. He has a large head with the muzzle being smaller than the skull, narrowing slightly. The nose is black and the ears are set high and are floppy with dark eyes. The tail is set high and is long.

Temperament:

The Caucasian Shepherd is an intelligent breed but he must be properly trained and socialized as he can be stubborn and want to go his own way.

He is a balanced dog and he won’t deliberately hurt whom he regards as family, but he shows distrust towards strangers. While socialization and training relax and calm a dog, the Caucasian Shepherd isn’t regarded as the best dog to have with children around. This is because he comes from a lineage of guard dogs, bred to fight and guard.

He is a dog breed that will require a firm, strong owner and if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, the Caucasian can be difficult to manage and perhaps isn’t the best choice for a first-time dog owner.

Characteristics

shetland sheepdog dog - characteristicsYou’re certainly not going to have one dull moment with the Shetland sheepdog – its such a lively, intelligent, entertaining, playful and also eager to please - that's your Sheltie.

They also have a gentle, quiet side. They love the company of their human family and are able to adapt to life in the city or countryside, so long as he gets lots of attention and exercise.

They’re highly strung dogs, and an excitable child can get them barking in a high pitched way which wont be good if you live close to your neighbors.

Shelties are essentially peaceful dogs who prefer a home where its quiet and orderly. If you give this dog what it needs, just like you would for any family member of yours, you’ll be blessed with an awesome pet and companion.

caucasian shepherd dog - characteristicsLoyal, strong, and brave, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog does an excellent job protecting his human family. He is a territorial dog and in the past he has always been ready to take on wolves and bear to protect his sheep. He isn't the best choice for first time dog-owners and where there are small children in the home.

He will do well to be trained and socialized as he becomes an obedient, patient, gentle, loving pet that becomes an excellent companion and protector.

Health Problems

shetland sheepdog puppies - health problemsEvery dog, no matter how healthy, can succumb to any one of the many dog illnesses there are.Some of the dog illnesses to look out for include cancer, bloat, ear infections, dental problems, hypothyroidism, skin allergies and obesity among others.

Hypothyroidism:

This illness occurs when the dog’s body doesn’t maintain sufficient levels of thyroid hormones. Your pet will be sensitive to the cold, the thick hair will be thinning and there will be weight gain. It will be wise to have your dog checked out by your vet as this is an ailment which can be managed with medication.

Collie Eye Anomaly:

This is an inherited condition that can lead to blindness in some dogs. It can occur in both eyes. It can be diagnosed by your vet but regrettably there is no treatment. Not spaying or neutering your dog will mean that if the have puppies the gene can be carried down to the puppies.

Dermatomyositis:

This is an inherited disorder that can cause skin lesions but also affect the muscles. Skin lesions can appear on the head and the front legs and there can be hair loss.

caucasian shepherd puppies - health problemsLike all breeds there may be some health issues, even though the Caucasian Shepherd is generally a healthy dog. There are some common illnesses that every dog can get and which every responsible dog owner should be aware of -

Diarrhea:

One or two episodes of diarrhea isn’t an emergency, but ongoing diarrhea can lead to dehydration. If your dog is vomiting, he is lethargic and constantly emptying his bowels, see your vet if the diarrhea persists.

Parasites:

Parasites such as fleas and ticks and even internal parasites such as intestinal worms can drain the life from your pet. It is wise to find out about different parasites so that you can protect your dog. Find out what your vet’s treatment options are for parasites.

Caring The Pet

Exercise:

shetland sheepdog dogs - caringThese little dogs have always been farm dogs and they will need a lot of exercise. Even so, with their small size, they can adapt to life in the city or the countryside, but will always need exercise.They love going for walks and playing games with the kids.

Grooming:

Your Sheltie will need brushing every day because the hair can so easily pick up leaves, twigs and burrs. In the warmer months some people prefer to trim the coat themselves or take the dog along to a professional groomer.

Diet:

It is best to feed adult dogs two meals a day instead of one. One can make your dog want to gobble up his food too quickly and this can result in a life threatening condition known as bloat.

How much any adult dog eats will depend on his size, his age and his activity levels.The quality of dog food you buy also makes a huge difference – the better quality the food, the more satisfied your Sheltie will be.

Some of the best commercially manufactured dog foods are convenient and they can be good if you go with the best brands that have high levels of vitamins and minerals in them. Dry kibble can be made more enticing when you add some homemade food into it.

Boiled chicken, sweet potatoes, brown rice or pasta, carrots and spinach will do him the world of good. Chop it up and add small portions to the kibble about twice a week. His wagging tail and prancing antics will be all the thanks you need.

Some raw meat added in occasionally will also contribute to your pet’s heath. Make sure he is never without a constant supply of fresh, cool water.

caucasian shepherd dogs - caringThe Caucasian Shepherd Dog has a thick double coat that will certainly require brushing twice a week. The coat comes in different lengths – short, medium and long. The hair is mostly long and the long tail is also feathery. The best way to groom your large, furry pet is to invest in some good grooming tools such as a good brush to keep your pet’s hair in tip-top condition.

His nails will need to be trimmed regularly, his ears will also need to be checked to avoid wax build-up and the accumulation of grime. This can lead to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed 2 or 3 times a week with special dog toothbrush and toothpaste.

Exercise:

The Caucasian Shepherd isn’t going to do well in a small home with tiny garden in the city. He is a big dog that will require a large yard even though he is a fairly low-energy dog. He will be suited to a family that is active, that will take him on daily walks, hikes and include some ball games.

Diet:

You will need to change your Caucasian Shepherd Dog’s food as he goes through the different phases of his life, from puppy to adulthood. Speak to your veterinarian about a commercially produced dog food is you’re unable to give him home-made food. These foods are available in breed-specific and age-specific formulas.

Reputable breeders will also help you ensure that you know how to start feeding your puppy. Caucasian Shepherds are a large breed and apart from their kibble, you’ll want to include rice, vegetables and cooked chicken from time to time in his kibble and also include raw meat occasionally.

If you're unsure, ask your veterinarian or breeder about the best diet to ensure his longevity. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Perro de Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  4. Caucasian Shepherd vs Bakharwal Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cabecudo Boiadeiro - Breed Comparison
  6. Caucasian Shepherd vs Canis Panther - Breed Comparison
  7. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison
  8. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  9. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Molossus vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Danish Broholmer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Sage Koochee vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Cordoba Fighting Dog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Perro Cimarron vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Perro de Toro vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Gran Mastin de Borinquen vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Korean Mastiff vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Samoyed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Labradoodle vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Mixed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Great Pyrenees vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Old English Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Shetland Sheepdog vs Corgi - Breed Comparison
  26. Shetland Sheepdog vs American Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  27. Shetland Sheepdog vs Miniature Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cardigan Welsh Corgi - Breed Comparison
  29. Toy Australian Shepherd vs Shetland Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  30. Welsh Corgi vs Shetland Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  31. Shetland Sheepdog vs Pomeranian - Breed Comparison
  32. Shetland Sheepdog vs Maltese - Breed Comparison
  33. Shetland Sheepdog vs Pug - Breed Comparison
  34. Shetland Sheepdog vs Boston Terrier - Breed Comparison
  35. Shetland Sheepdog vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  36. Shetland Sheepdog vs Maltipoo - Breed Comparison
  37. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cavalier King Charles Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  38. Shetland Sheepdog vs Bichon Frise - Breed Comparison
  39. Shetland Sheepdog vs Dachshund - Breed Comparison
  40. Shetland Sheepdog vs Jack Russell Terrier - Breed Comparison
  41. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cockapoo - Breed Comparison
  42. Shetland Sheepdog vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  43. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cavapoo - Breed Comparison
  44. Shetland Sheepdog vs Miniature Schnauzer - Breed Comparison
  45. Shetland Sheepdog vs Cavachon - Breed Comparison
  46. Shetland Sheepdog vs Mal-Shi - Breed Comparison
  47. Shetland Sheepdog vs Papillon - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds