The Moscow Watchdog is a large, energetic dog with a strong protective instinct. This unique four-legged friend is characterized by an impressive appearance and an indomitable character.
The Moscow Guard Dog is a Russian dog breed that originated in the 50s in the former Union of Soviet Socialist Republics. The goal was to breed a loyal, intelligent, strong and confident service dog for the military. The Russian elite of cynologists and genetic researchers began breeding experiments by crossing Caucasian Shepherd Dogs with breeds brought as spoils of war. However, both bred breeds: the Moscow Mastiff and the Moscow Newfoundland, did not meet expectations. Only the crossing of the Caucasian Shepherd Dog with the St. Bernard and the Russian Spotted Hound brought the expected effect.
The result was a large muscular dog, extremely intelligent and devoted, steadfast in action, which, moreover, was able to withstand difficult weather conditions. The Moscow Watchdog was recognized by the Russian Association of Dogs RKF (1985) as an independent dog breed and assigned to group 2: Pinschers and Schnauzers - Molossians - Swiss Mountain Dogs. The Moscow watchman, however, was not recognized by the International Cynological Federation.
Here are the suggested sizes for adult dogs of this breed. They were selected on the basis of many years of experience in sewing accessories and the most common choices of other dog owners of this breed. Remember, only measuring will give you 100% certainty - every dog is different.
Until the fall of the Soviet Union, the Moscow Watchdog was only a state (service) breed of dogs, prohibited for private use. It was only after 1992 that the situation changed and the breed slowly spread around the world. Currently, apart from Russia, you can find few breedings, especially in countries such as Germany and the USA.
The figure of modern representatives of the Moscow watchdog is undoubtedly associated with the appearance of the St. Bernard. No wonder, after all, the Russian breed of dogs also carries the genes of the Swiss Mountain Dog. However, in a few points it differs from its cousin from Switzerland. The Moscow watchdog, despite its impressive size, is very mobile and agile. The body as well as the head are longer compared to the St. Bernard, and the Moscow Watchdog's tail is straight, not curved. In addition, the Russian dog breed did not inherit droopy cheeks and eyelids from the St. Bernard. In addition, both males and females are slightly smaller. Males reach a height of 68 to 78 cm at the withers and weigh 55 kg or more. female dogs measure from 65 to 73 cm and weigh from 45 kg upwards.
The body of the Moscow watchman is rectangular, strong, athletic, with a large muscle mass and a broad bony skeleton. The strong neck has a slight curve and a pronounced throat. The withers are evenly defined and slightly higher than the croup. The back is elongated, wide, smoothly flowing into the loins. The croup drops towards the base of the tail. The limbs are straight and muscular.
The Moscow Watchdog boasts a straight, long, thick coat with an abundant undercoat. Their fur comes mainly in a combination of colors: white, red and brown. White coloring of the limbs and the tip of the tail, black or dark brown ears, and a black rim of the eyes are recommended. On the neck of the dog, decorative fur creates a lush mane, there are feathers on the paws. A slight undulation is allowed in the area of the lumbar girdle, croup and hips. There are two varieties: long-haired and short-haired.
The breed is characterized by good health and endurance, but like most large four-legged friends, it has an increased predisposition to the development of hip dysplasia. For this reason, the Moscow watchdog should avoid those dog sports that require intense physical activity, combined with rapid changes of direction, jumps and covering very long distances. Another important point to keep in mind with large breed puppies is to protect them from growing too fast, which is associated with the risk of developing musculoskeletal and joint problems later in life. In addition, in the case of representatives of this breed, susceptibility to food allergies and obesity should be taken into account.
The average life expectancy of Moscow watchdogs is 9 to 12 years.
The lush coat of the Moscow Watchdog requires careful care, especially during moulting periods, i.e. in spring and autumn. It is recommended to systematically comb the thick fur with undercoat, preferably twice a week. For bathing (every 4-6 months) it is worth using a special gentle shampoo for long hair. Every day, if necessary, it is enough to wipe the fur with a wet cloth. In addition, you should regularly check the condition of the mouth, ears and nasal mucosa. If necessary, you can clean the ears with a cotton swab dipped in water and wash the area around the eyes with a solution of tea or herbs (e.g. chamomile). If the Moscow watchman's claws do not shorten naturally, they should be trimmed regularly.
The Moscow watchman is known for his great temperament. He is energetic, active and very persistent. In the role of a guard dog, he shows obedience and a balanced disposition, with a lot of self-confidence. Like other working dogs, he is very focused on his trainer. He is reserved and skeptical of strangers and should not be harassed under any circumstances. She likes physical and mental challenges, games, walks regardless of the weather. He is a very intelligent and capable student, smart and resourceful. His training should start as early as puppy age.
During the Moscow watchdog training, the guardian should show consistency, perseverance and strength of character, because the pet may turn out to be stubborn and independent. If the owner understands that he is unable to properly raise a four-legged friend, he can always turn to experienced dog trainers who know the characteristics of this breed.
In the family circle, the Moscow watchdog becomes a balanced, calm and very loyal dog, an excellent protector and a good friend. If the Moscow Guard Dog is used to children from a young age, he develops a deep bond with them. However, in adult life, his contacts with children should always be supervised.
Every owner of a young quadruped wonders how to teach his puppy to pee in a specific place, of course, preferably in the open air. In practice, however, this often turns out to be impossible. Then a hygienic mat comes to our aid, which is an excellent solution in the first period of training a pet.
Flying with a dog is a challenge for both pets and their owners. Therefore, owners of four-legged companions should carefully consider the decision to choose this means of transport for traveling with their pet. It is worth preparing well for this trip and considering the relationship between the hardships and the benefits of the trip. A dog on a plane? See what you need to know!
The Bichon Bolognese (Bolognese) is an extremely intelligent and very devoted four-legged friend. With his charming and cheerful disposition and very tender character, he immediately conquers every heart. His cheerful nature and love of cuddling make him the perfect family dog.
