East German Shepherd vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

East German Shepherd vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonCaucasian Shepherd is originated from Russia but East German Shepherd is originated from Germany. Caucasian Shepherd may grow 10 cm / 4 inches higher than East German Shepherd. Caucasian Shepherd may weigh 60 kg / 133 pounds more than East German Shepherd. Both Caucasian Shepherd and East German Shepherd has almost same life span. Both Caucasian Shepherd and East German Shepherd has almost same litter size. Caucasian Shepherd requires Moderate Maintenance. But East German Shepherd requires High Maintenance

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Herding dogs
undefined
Russia
Germany
Height Male:
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
60 - 65 cm
23 - 26 inches
Height Female:
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
55 - 60 cm
21 - 24 inches
Weight Male:
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
29 - 40 kg
63 - 89 pounds
Weight Female:
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
23 - 33 kg
50 - 73 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
10 - 13 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
4 - 9
Size:
Large
Large
Other Names:
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
East German Shepherd Dog, DDR, EGSD
Colors Available:
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
grey with darker shading, brown and yellow to light grey markings; single-coloured black, are black with reddish-brown, black saddle and mask
Coat:
Long haired, dense
double, dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Independent, Loving, Protective, Social
Grooming:
Moderate Maintenance
High Maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
No

History

caucasian shepherdThis 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.

east german shepherdThe East German Shepherd is a line of the German Shepherd Dog breed. The German Shepherd Dog came about when the three types of “continental shepherd dogs” separated into the Dutch Shephers, German Shepherd and Belgian Shepherd. In the 1800’s it was local shepherds who bred their dogs and selected the traits they needed in their geography. The result was dogs in various local areas who all could herd and guard flocks; who were intelligent, strong, fast and had a good sense of smell, but their appearance and skills varied from town to town. The changes in Germany from agriculture and sheep to industrial cities rendered the German Sheep Dog obsolete. But was it really? Many felt the dog could be a good working dog in the cities as well but needed some refinement in the breed according to Max von Stephanite. At a dog show in 1899, he found what he wanted – the perfect working dog.Stephanitz bought the dog and founded the Society for the German Shepherd. (Verein fur Deutsch Schaferhunde) Stephanitz is considered the developer of the German Shepherd Dog.

The East German Shepherd is a line of the same breed. There are several different lines of the German Shepherd Dog, with slight difference for the reason they were bred. For instance, the German Shepherd Dog is bred for looks while the East German Shepherd is bred to be a working dog. Often called a DDR German Shepherd, they came about from the Deutsche Democratic Republic or the Republic of East Germany. For about 40 years in East Germany these dogs were bred only within the DDR bloodline.

The East German Shepherd is stronger, heavier boned, leaner, more muscular and solid. During the time of the Berlin Wall, from 1961-1989, there were few German Shepherds for breeding stock on either side of the wall, but especially in the East. There the government controlled the development of the breed. They developed a separate registry for the DDR – East German Shepherd. With such strict standards for a perfect working dog and such little breeding stock, the only dogs allowed to reproduce were the ones that passed a rigorous test and were deemed perfect working dogs.

In West Germany they continued to breed for appearance. The West German Shepherd are the most popular ones and are usually simply called German Shepherds. The show dogs of today and the American line came from the West.

Preserving the East German Shepherd today is important and difficult. It means preserving not improving. The Strength of the East German Shepherd is their body line and style, Today’s breeder must maintain this while making sure there is enough diversity in the gene pool to keep the line healthy without losing its body style and working temperament. It is important that the East German Shepherd have a straight back rather than the sloping one of the German Shepherd Dog or the American lines of the GSD. The working dog is also more aggressive and has a much higher work drive than any of the other German Shepherd Dogs lines.

Description

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.

east german shepherd puppy - descriptionWhat are the differences between the German Shepherd Dog (GSD) and the East German Shepherd? The East German Shepherd has a straight back and a larger bone structure. He has a very large and block shaped head with a lean, athletic build. His lips are taunt and dark, and his nose must be black. He has a scissor bite and strong teeth. His eyes are medium sized almonds that are slanted slightly. The eyes are also very dark. His ears are erect and not too big. His legs, haunches and feet must all be coordinated so that he trots rather than runs.

Characteristics

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.

east german shepherd dog - characteristicsThe East German Shepherd is a well- balanced dog. He is sure of himself, friendly, loyal and wants to please his owner. He is intelligent, resilient and attentive. He will make a great family pet. He is aggressive with a high prey drive but that can be tempered with good socialization and training. He is easy to train.

Health Problems

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.

east german shepherd puppies - health problemsBecause the East German Shepherd line has been isolated behind the Berlin Wall, there are not many genetic health issues in the line. Most importantly the East German Shepherd shows no hip dysplasia which plagues most GSD. There are a couple of situations to look out for. They are:

  • Bloat

A life threatening issue that must be addressed immediately for fear of death. Bloat is caused when a larger dog with a deep chest eats too large a meal before or after strenuous exercise, eats too fast, or drinks too much water. The stomach distends with air or gas and twists. Sometimes it is completely inverted. Get help fast or your dog will die.

Caring The Pet

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.

Feeding

east german shepherd dogs - caringBecause these dogs were bred to work you need to feed them a high quality dry food, made for working dogs. It needs to have a good amount of calcium and glucosamine. Feed about 3-4 cups per day divided into 2 feeding times.

Health issues

In addition to bloat as mentioned above, the East German Shepherd can also have both air born, and food born allergies. These are easily treated by your veterinarian.

Exercise and games

The East German Shepherd is a high energy, high activity dog so you have some for him. He is agile and athletic. He needs serious exercise and a job is essential. If you can’t give an East German Shepherd a job, then don’t get this dog. He loves tracking and has a high prey drive. Keep him trained, challenged and working. Try tracking and herding trials, obedience, agility, fly ball and bar hunt.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. East German Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  2. East German Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. East German Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  4. East German Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  5. East German Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  6. East German Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. East German Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  8. East German Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  9. East German Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  10. East German Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  11. East German Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  12. East German Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  13. East German Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  14. East German Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  15. East German Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  16. East German Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  17. East German Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  18. East German Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  19. East German Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  20. East German Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  21. East German Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  22. East German Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  23. East German Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  24. East German Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  25. East German Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison
  26. Caucasian Shepherd vs English Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  27. Caucasian Shepherd vs German Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Caucasian Shepherd vs Golden Retriever - Breed Comparison
  29. Caucasian Shepherd vs Labrador Retriever - Breed Comparison
  30. Caucasian Shepherd vs West Highland White Terrier - Breed Comparison
  31. Caucasian Shepherd vs French Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  32. Caucasian Shepherd vs Beagle - Breed Comparison
  33. Caucasian Shepherd vs Yorkshire Terrier - Breed Comparison
  34. Caucasian Shepherd vs Poodle - Breed Comparison
  35. Caucasian Shepherd vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  36. Caucasian Shepherd vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  37. Caucasian Shepherd vs English Pointer - Breed Comparison
  38. Caucasian Shepherd vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  39. Caucasian Shepherd vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  40. Caucasian Shepherd vs American Bully - Breed Comparison
  41. Caucasian Shepherd vs Abruzzenhund - Breed Comparison
  42. Caucasian Shepherd vs Affenpinscher - Breed Comparison
  43. Caucasian Shepherd vs Afghan Hound - Breed Comparison
  44. Caucasian Shepherd vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  45. Caucasian Shepherd vs Airedale Terrier - Breed Comparison
  46. Caucasian Shepherd vs Akbash Dog - Breed Comparison
  47. Caucasian Shepherd vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  48. Caucasian Shepherd vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  49. Caucasian Shepherd vs Askal - Breed Comparison
  50. Caucasian Shepherd vs Atlas Terrier - Breed Comparison