The Caucasian Shepherd's history is a bit of a mystery, but what is known is they are descendants of ancient breeds. There is archaeological evidence recently discovered that indicates the breed might have its origins in Mesopotamia although some experts believe these dogs were first bred in Tibet and were then introduced to the Caucasus over time.
There are those who claim these dogs are the descendants of wolves found in the Caucasus, but with all the legends and beliefs of how the breed came about, what is known is that the Caucasian Shepherd Dog has helped herdsmen and shepherds guard their flocks against large predators for centuries in the mountainous regions of Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Daghestan as well as the steppes of the northern Caucasus and the Astrakhan regions of the land.
Caucasian Shepherd dogs have always been highly regarded in their native lands for being excellent watchdogs and were used to guard not only property but large flocks of livestock in challenging conditions and over difficult terrains. There were many "types" found throughout the different regions and dogs were used for different tasks too. The dogs that worked in the trans-Caucasus regions of the land were bigger with heavier coats whereas the dogs found working the steppes boasted much rangier builds and shorter, lighter coats. However, the dogs we see today are bred to conform to a breed standard. The protectiveness and devotion to defending their owners and flocks are legendary.
At one time, the breed was so popular and highly prized that the former Soviet authorities established state kennels where dogs were bred to guard government facilities and factories throughout the country. In America, the breed found favor with the army for being such reliable and trustworthy dogs and as a result, they were used in the field as service dogs.
Although, relatively unknown here in the UK, more people are showing an interest in the breed thanks to their extremely large size and the many images of Caucasian Shepherds with their owners appearing on the Internet. The breed was recognized by The United Kennel Club of America in 1995 and they are now a recognized American Kennel Club breed, but these handsome, noble dogs are not yet recognized as a breed by The Kennel Club here in the UK (November 2017).
