Caucasian Mountain Dog

Book excerpt: From the remote mountainous regions of the Caucasus in southeastern Europe comes the Caucasian Mountain Dog, an ovcharka breed whose origins trace back two millennia. Employed by Russian shepherds to protect the flocks from predators, the Caucasian Mountain Dog is a discerning guardian, wary of strangers, that is at once fearless and impressive. The author, breeder and exhibitor, Stacy L.G. Kubyn shares her insight into this remarkable Russian breed as she traces its origins in the countries of the former USSR and its spread to the United States, where she organized the breed’s first parent club. This Comprehensive Owner’s Guide also offers a candid view of the breed’s characteristics and temperament, including sound advice about owning this powerful, demanding working breed. New owners will welcome the well-prepared chapter on finding a reputable breeder and selecting a healthy, sound puppy. Chapters on puppy-proofing the home and yard, purchasing the right supplies for the puppy as well as house-training, feeding, and grooming are illustrated with photographs of handsome adults and puppies. In all, there are over 135 full-color photographs in this useful and reliable volume. The author’s advice on obedience training will help the reader better mold and train into the most well-mannered dog in the neighborhood. The extensive and lavishly illustrated chapter on healthcare provides up-to-date detailed information on selecting a qualified veterinarian, vaccinations, preventing and dealing with parasites, infectious diseases, and more. Sidebars throughout the text offer helpful hints, covering topics as diverse as historical dogs, breeders, or kennels, toxic plants, first aid, crate training, carsickness, fussy eaters, and parasite control. Fully indexed.