Caucasian Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison

Caucasian Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed ComparisonCaucasian Shepherd is originated from Russia but Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) is originated from Belgium. Caucasian Shepherd may grow 9 cm / 4 inches higher than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael). Caucasian Shepherd may weigh 70 kg / 155 pounds more than Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael). Both Caucasian Shepherd and Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) has almost same life span. Both Caucasian Shepherd and Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) has same litter size. Caucasian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance. But Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) requires High maintenance

History

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.

belgian shepherd dog groenendael - historyLooking much like a pitch black German Shepherd dog, the Belgian Shepherd is a beautiful looking dog. Their roots go back to the 1800s to Groenendael, Belgium. This is where they were bred by a certain Nicolas Rose in 1910. The Groenendael is one of four different Belgian Sheepdog varieties but the Groenendael is sometimes treated as a distinct breed.

They have always been used for their intelligence, serving for instance in the police force and being message carriers in war situations. Originally, Belgian Shepherds were used to herd livestock. It was in 1911 that the Groenendael was registered in the United States, and not much later the first Belgian Sheepdog Club of America formed. The breed was recognized by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 1912.

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Working dog
Origin:
Russia
Belgium
Height Male:
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
60 - 66 cm
23 - 26 inches
Height Female:
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
56 - 62 cm
22 - 25 inches
Weight Male:
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
25 - 30 kg
55 - 67 pounds
Weight Female:
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
23 - 30 kg
50 - 67 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 14 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
6 - 10
Size:
Large dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
Belgian Groenendael, Belgian Shepherd, AKC: Belgian Sheepdog
Colors Available:
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
Black
Coat:
Long haired, dense
Dense double coat
Shedding:
Moderate
Constant, Seasonal
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Gentle, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Quiet, Responsive, Social, Sweet, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
High maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Easy
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

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.

Large, Strong and Well Proportioned

belgian shepherd dog groenendael puppy - descriptionWith his alert, bright brown eyes, the Groenendael, referred to often as the Belgian Sheepdog, has erect ears with a long, feathered tail. The straight, strong legs are also feathered. He is well proportioned, athletic and strong. He has a dense double coat, and this working dog’s coat is black, but you sometimes find some small white markings around his paws and muzzle. The size of the Groenendael is roughly 60-66cm at the withers with the females sometimes being slightly smaller. The weight of the dog is roughly 25–30 kilograms.

He’s a Social Dog who Craves Companionship

The Groenendael is an active, intelligent breed and training and socializing will be necessary to ensure he knows how to behave around his human family. He is a big, social dog and won’t do well when left alone day after day in the back yard. In fact he may even show signs of separation anxiety if you leave him indefinitely. He makes for an excellent family dog, just loving their companionship and he becomes very protective of them.

An Intelligent, Alert Breed

He is used to making use of his intelligence and therefore he will need mental stimulation as opposed to lying around all day. He gets on well with adults, children and other pets, but he needs to grow up with children and not be put among children when he is already an adult. He is loyal and loving to his human family, forming a deep bond, especially with just one member of the family.

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.

belgian shepherd dog groenendael dog - characteristicsYour Belgian Shepherd is an intelligent, active, loyal companion for you. He is highly intelligent too, and will need the right owner who can meet his energetic needs. He therefore wouldn’t do well with in a small place where the owners are couch potatoes. He is a working dog and will require being kept busy.

Provide him with good food, look after that thick, lustrous coat of his, provide him with a warm, dry place to sleep and plenty of exercise, love and attention and he will turn out to be the wonderful pet that makes him such a popular breed.

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.

belgian shepherd dog groenendael puppies - health problemsThe Belgian Groenendael is a healthy, strong breed with no major health problems and with an average lifespan of 12-14 years.

As with every dog breed, there will be some health issues to be aware of. Skin allergies, epilepsy, eye problems and hip- and joint dysplasia are some areas to look out for

Dental disease for instance, is a common problem with pets, and your Belgian Shepherd can have serious problems with their teeth. Tartar build-up on the teeth ca take you down a trail of infections and gum disease. If you don’t want to make use of a special canine toothbrush and toothpaste, your vet will do it for you.

Your Groenendael will also be susceptible to ticks, fleas and bacterial and viral infections. As a puppy of 6 – 8 weeks, vaccinations for parvo, rabies, and distemper will be necessary. You’ll also need to be generally watching your pet’s health and to get him to the vet when he shows signs of being run-down and ill.

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.

belgian shepherd dog groenendael dogs - caringThe Groenendael has a double coat and because it is also fairly long, his black coat may well be high maintenance and brushing every 2nd day will be necessary to keep the coat unmatted and to also get rid of those loose hairs. In fact, heavy shedding is part of this breed’s life and while heavy shedding happens twice a year, light shedding continues throughout the year. Sometimes is may be necessary to send him to a dog grooming parlour to snip his hair and to wash it.

Other care routines to watch for -

A healthy, quality diet it absolutely imperative. Speak to your vet about the best kind of wet- or dry food suited to an energetic breed like this and appropriate to his age. You need to include raw meat into your pets diet every day now and then to avoid skin problems. Always ensure a bowl of clean, cool water is available, The bowl will need to be washed out every other day.

make sure his ears are cleaned. Once again you have to be careful when prodding in a dog’s ear and your veterinarian will show you how.

keep him well exercised with long walks and ball games.

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Samoyed vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  2. Alaskan Malamute vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  3. Bullmastiff vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  4. Great Pyrenees vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  5. Boerboel vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  6. Presa Canario vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  7. Labrador Husky vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  8. Argentine Dogo vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  9. Giant Schnauzer vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  10. Goldador vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  11. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Siberian Husky - Breed Comparison
  12. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Rottweiler - Breed Comparison
  13. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Boxer - Breed Comparison
  14. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Akita - Breed Comparison
  15. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Doberman Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  16. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Alapaha Blue Blood Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  17. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Africanis - Breed Comparison
  18. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Belgian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Bandog - Breed Comparison
  20. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Beauceron - Breed Comparison
  21. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Alano Espanol - Breed Comparison
  22. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) vs Antebellum Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  23. Dogo Cubano vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  24. Dogo Sardesco vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  25. Central Asian Shepherd vs Belgian Shepherd Dog (Groenendael) - Breed Comparison
  26. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  27. Perro de Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  29. Caucasian Shepherd vs Bakharwal Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cabecudo Boiadeiro - Breed Comparison
  31. Caucasian Shepherd vs Canis Panther - Breed Comparison
  32. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison
  33. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  34. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  35. Molossus vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  36. Danish Broholmer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  37. Sage Koochee vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  38. Cordoba Fighting Dog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  39. Perro Cimarron vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  40. Perro de Toro vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  41. Gran Mastin de Borinquen vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  42. Korean Mastiff vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  43. Samoyed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  44. Labradoodle vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  45. Mixed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  46. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  47. Great Pyrenees vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  48. Old English Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  49. Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds