An adult Moscow Watchdog in the snow
MAHS-kou WOCH-dawg
The Moscow Watchdog is big-boned but is not clumsy. It has a massive head and powerful legs. It is well developed muscularly and mentally. The coat is thick with fringing and of moderate length. The color is always red and white. The tail reaches the floor and is generously plumed. It has an expression of confidence and knowing.
This is a strong and able-bodied mastiff, a companionable companion, a comrade and a watchdog. He is fine in temperament, if properly reared and a suitable choice for owners who have the space to keep him. This breed can be trained as a seeing-eye dog. The objective in training this dog is to achieve pack leader status. It is a natural instinct for a dog to have an order in its pack. When we humans live with dogs, we become their pack. The entire pack cooperates under a single leader. Lines are clearly defined and rules are set. Because a dog communicates his displeasure with growling and eventually biting, all other humans MUST be higher up in the order than the dog. The humans must be the ones making the decisions, not the dogs. That is the only way your relationship with your dog can be a complete success.
Height: 25 - 27 inches (64 - 69 cm)
Weight: 100 - 150 pounds (45 - 68 kg)
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This breed needs space and room to move. It is not recommended for apartment life.
The Moscow Watchdog needs a lot of regular exercise. It needs to be taken on a daily, long, brisk walk or jog. While out on the walk the dog must be made to heel beside or behind the person holding the lead, as in a dog's mind the leader leads the way, and that leader needs to be the human. In addition, it will benefit from a large, safe area where it can run free.
About 9 to 11 years
About 5 to 10 puppies
Comb and brush with a firm bristle brush, and bathe only when necessary. Shampoo may strip the coat of its oily, water-resistant properties, so use a mild soap. The eyes, which may be inclined to water, need special attention to keep them clean and free of irritants. This breed sheds twice a year.
This breed was created by Moscow dog fanciers who wanted a large, strong watchdog that would be more receptive to taking and following orders. After World War II, breeders began with the Caucasian Ovtcharka, which gave it great watch and assertive traits such as wariness and ferocity, and the Saint Bernard to increase the size and strength and provide a more gentle temperament. As a result, the Moscow Watchdog possesses the mental and physical attributes desired. They are quite popular in Eastern Europe and have recently been making their way to the United States.
Mastiff
An adult Moscow Watchdog in the snow
An adult Moscow Watchdog on the sofa
