Find the Right Breed of Dog for You
Dive into over 300 breed in our all inclusive online resource
South Russian Sheepdog (Lonjorousskaia Ovtcharka)
Large Breed
The South Russian Sheepdog of meridonial Russia is an impressive, powerful dog of healthy constitution and above average size.
Breed standards
Country of origin
Russia
Weight
25-30 kgs/55-66 lbs (Standards may vary)
Height
Males minimum 65 cm/25 1/2 inches; Females minimum 62 cm/24 1/2 inches (Standards may vary)
Coat
Long (10-15 cm), coarse, thick, dense, of equal length on head, chest, legs and tail, with a well-developed undercoat.
Markings
Most often white but also white and yellow, straw colour, greyish (ashen grey) and other shades of grey; white lightly marked with grey; grey speckled.
Lifespan
9-11 years
It is an undemanding dog that can adapt well to diverse climatic conditions and temperatures, ideal for the inhospitable elevations of the Ukrainian mountains from where it originates. Originally a guarding and defending dog, the South Russian Sheepdog will be distrustful of strangers giving a feeling of safety to his family.
Temperament
South Russian Sheepdogs are not suitable for the novice owner; they are guarding, independent, stubborn, loyal and dominant dogs who require a strong-minded and experienced owner who has the ability to display strong leadership. They are extremely protective of their family and very wary of strangers. They have a strong inherent desire to guard and protect their family and territory. The South Russian Sheepdog requires early consistent training and extensive socialisation.
-
PoorChildrenGood
-
VeryCombativenessNot very
-
VeryDominanceNot very
-
Not veryFriendlinessGood
-
Not veryIndependenceVery
-
LoudNoiseQuiet
-
Not veryTrainabilityVery
Good to know
The South Russian Sheepdog is a very lively dog of robust constitution. This breed has a strong inherent guarding instinct and is extremely protective of their family, their home and its territory.
- An excellent guard dog
- A dog of robust constitution
- Adapts well to most climates
- Requires sufficient daily exercise and mental stimulation
- Not a dog recommended for novice owners
- Dominating and possessive personality
- Distrustful of strangers
- Not recommended for apartment living