South Russian Ovcharka

The exact origin of the breed is debatable but it is thought that the South Russian Ovcharka originated from European herding dogs in the 18th century when long, woolly haired dogs were imported to Russia from Europe. The only trait that is truly known about the breed is that the dogs are direct descendants from wolfs, their looks and temperament are extremely close and it is thought that domestication has brought them to where they are now. The large and robust South Russian Ovcharka weigh 108 to 110 pounds and stand 24 to 25 inches tall. The South Russian Ovcharka is not very demanding but a strong leader will be needed to keep this breed from creating bad habits.