Shadows of the Mountains – The Ancient Origins of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog

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Introduction

The magnificent mountains of the Caucasus Mountains are the geographic frontier that separates Europe and Asia. The rugged, untamed landscape is home to some of the oldest civilizations on earth and also has the deepest valleys and most robust wildlife. The Caucasian Shepherd Dog, also called the Caucasian Ovcharka, was born in this magnificent landscape. Understanding the roots of this breed demands a thorough study of history. This involves locating the ancestors of dogs who existed prior to the time records were made or the current boundaries of geographical space. The Caucasian Shepherd has deep roots in a breed of dog that was previously known as Molossers.

Canine archeologists and historians argue on the origins of this breed, but there is a consensus among experts that it originated in the Middle East or Central Asia. A majority of experts believe that the Tibetan Mastiff and Caucasian Shepherd share a common ancestral lineage. When nomadic tribes traveled across the Asian steppes toward the Caucasus several thousand years ago, they took their entire family of protectors with them.

Mesopotamian origins – A convincing theory links the dogs to the early Molossians which originated in Mesopotamia. The carvings and artifacts found in the region depict large bear-like breeds that were hunted to hunt large animals and guard palaces. As trade routes grew, the dogs were brought into the Caucasus Mountains. The Caucasian Shepherd was a landrace born by necessity. The Caucasian Shepherd is a “landrace” or “aboriginal” which is in contrast to the Victorian England breeds that were developed by pedigrees. This implies that it developed naturally in the course of the course of time, and was affected by the environment rather than its aesthetics.

The Caucasus region includes the modern-day Georgia and Azerbaijan and the North Caucasus Republics of Russia comprising Dagestan, Ossetia, and Armenia that provided a rugged environment for the evolution of. Extreme temperatures, from scorching summer heat of the valleys to subzero snowstorms at high altitudes, required dogs who had a thick double coat that was weatherproof.

Geography: The rough, slopes required a dog that was strong and had a lot of muscular strength and was able to maintain its stamina. The Regional Varieties Because of the vastness of the Caucasus Mountains and their deep valleys, different breeds emerged. Georgian types of Georgians are thought to be the biggest and most traditional breed. Breeders from the Kazbegi area of Georgia were strong, large and muscular, with long hair and long fur. They are often thought of as the benchmark breeds for today’s breeds. The Armenian breed was smaller but was extremely quick. They had hair of medium length, and were predominantly solid colored.

caucasian shepherd dog history

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