The
South Russian Owtcharka is a large, furry breed that is native to Southern
Russia, as the name indicates. There are three close relatives of the South
Russian, being the Mid-Asian, Steppe, and Transcaucasian. The Steppe is the
rarest of them all. The South Russian Owtcharka remains rare to this day,
and its numbers remain low. They are large dogs with profuse hair that is
mostly white, grey or beige. They have strong bodies that are well muscled,
and drop ears. They somewhat resemble the Old English Sheepdog in appearance.
As for temperament, it is sometimes unstable. This breed is rather territorial,
protective and aggressive toward strangers. They "require a kingdom to defend"
in order to live their purpose, and prefer to guard their property, family,
and other animals. The South Russian Owtcharkas are intelligent but strong
willed. They need a strong and dominant leader who will not spoil them, as
some have states, "You can spoil this breed into a murderer." They are quick
for their size, and can react aggressively with little or no warning towards
a threat. Fearless and brave, this breed is not usually kept as a pet.
