Caucasian Mountain Dog

 The Caucasian Mountain Dog is a very large, muscular, powerful dog. It is assertive, strong-willed, and courageous. It’s a loyal and fearless dog with the ability to protect the family. The Caucasian Mountain Dog\'s original purpose was to protect livestock. It makes a good family pet. This is not a breed for the timid owner; it needs firm obedience training. 

 The Caucasian Mountain Dog is a very brave, alert, strong and hardy dog breed. It distrusts people it does not know and it has a powerful urge to defend. It needs an experienced owner. Early socialization is a must. Unless properly socialized and trained, the Caucasian Mountain Dog may exhibit ferocious and unmanageable tendencies. Everything and everyone who belongs to the family (including children, cats, other dogs, etc.) will be regarded by this dog as part of its family and will be respected and protected. It makes a very good guard-dog. It should not be left alone with children, because if play becomes too rough, the Caucasian Mountain Dog my feel the need to protect your child, and may do it extensively. It has no time for strangers, but it will greet family friends warmly. It tends to be rather dominating towards other dogs it does not know. This is not a dog for everyone; it requires an owner who knows how to display strong leadership and who is willing to spend a lot of time socializing and training. 

 The Caucasian Mountain Dog has thick, dense, weather-resistant coat, which is especially effective at keeping out the cold. There are two coat varieties: short and long. The coat of the long-haired variety requires frequent brushings, paying special attention to the spots where tangles may occur. The short-haired variety needs less grooming, but should still be combed and brushed. 

 Vigorously healthy. Possible health concerns include hip dysplasia, obesity. 

 Mental activities will help keep this breed\'s mind active and engaged, as well as physical activities. 

 Training must be firm, patient and inducive. This breed is not for the weak willed or fearful. Training should be begin when they are puppies, as they can grow into large ferocious dogs if not trained.