Description. The South Russian Ovtcharka is a robust, lean dog with a very large skeletal structure and very well developed muscles. With the height of the males being 25 inches at least and the females only being slightly smaller, at no less than 24 inches weighing in at 108 to 110 pounds, this is not a small dog. The South Russian Ovtcharka have a dense coat that is coarse and thick being some 4-6 inches over their body and head. They most often come in white but can also be white and yellow, straw colour, and various shades of grey there have a large black nose and arrears are triangular in shape whilst being comparatively small. They have a scissor bite. They have a moderate length neck that is muscular, lean and set high. As with the rest of the dog, the South Russian Ovtcharka has very powerful hind quarters. The feet are strong and oval in shape, also covered in long hair.

History. There are differing views as to the origins of the South Russian Ovtcharka. One story is the pra-slavics used similar dogs as herders and guardians around about 4000 years BC. Whereas another story tells how very were originally based on the European herding dogs. With this conflict in stories, it is hard to see where the breed really originated.

Temperament. The South Russian Ovtcharka is a large and robust dog. They adapt well to a variety of temperatures and conditions, due in part to their coat. As with all dogs they require a fur, consistent, and fair master. They need clear rules and guidelines. You must assert yourself as the alpha of the household, or the dog may see themselves as in command. They were specifically bred as guard dogs and any nervous behaviour, from their master, will make them anxious and could result in undesired effects. They are naturally dominant dog. However, if you assert yourself as the pack leader problems should not occur. Furthermore, because they are a herding dog, they will do best with a large family anda large property. If there are other dogs in the family then the South Russian Ovtcharka will assert himself as a leader over them. However, they will protect other dogs, as they do the rest of the family and the home. This is definitely not the dog for the first time owner, or a meek personality.

Health issues. There is little to indicate any major health issues and the South Russian Ovtcharka normally live 9-11 years.

Grooming. General brushing and combing, as needed, will keep the coat in good order. It may be required to strip the hair occasionally. If wishing to cut the South Russian Ovtcharka dog's coat it may be better to attend a professional salon, unless you are sufficiently experienced to do this yourself.

Living conditions. The South Russian Ovtcharka requires a lot of space, so are not at all suitable life in an apartment. It would be much better in a house that has large to extensive gardens. They require a lot of exercise and mental stimulation.