Caucasian Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison

Caucasian Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed ComparisonCaucasian Shepherd is originated from Russia but Australian Collie is originated from Australia. Caucasian Shepherd may grow 35 cm / 14 inches higher than Australian Collie. Caucasian Shepherd may weigh 75 kg / 166 pounds more than Australian Collie. Caucasian Shepherd may live 6 years less than Australian Collie. Caucasian Shepherd may have more litter size than Australian Collie. Both Caucasian Shepherd and Australian Collie requires Moderate maintenance.

History

caucasian shepherd - historyThis working dog is more than 2 000 years old, hailing from the Caucasus Mountains near the Georgian Republic, Russia.

The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is an ancient breed, always having been used to guard livestock in the mountains. Some believe they came from domesticated wolves, while others believe their ancestry includes Mastiffs and other breeds.

It was in the 1960s that the dog was used in Germany for patrol along the Berlin Wall. This dog is also known as the Caucasian Ovcharka and he is large and powerful, always being ready to take on anyone who threatens him or the livestock he is guarding.

His origins can be traced far back and eventually the dog found its ways to the USA where dog clubs were formed.The Caucasian Shepherd Dog is one of the oldest Molosser breeds, and today they are mostly appreciated for being wonderful family companions and watchdogs.

australian collie - historyThe Koolie, as a breed we know today, originates from Australia. But, before they were breed and imported, they were the mix made of Britain smooth coated blue merle Collie and the Black and Tan Collie from the Highlands of Scotland. The Koolie came to Australia to work as a kennel dog since they are known as the working, farm dog that can adapt to any weather condition. They were bred to be agile and non-aggressive quiet herding dogs, and they have kept most of those good characteristics until today.

Description

caucasian shepherd puppy - descriptionThe Caucasian Shepherd is a large, impressive looking dog standing at between 64 – 75cm in height and weighing between 45 – 70 kg. He has an almost bear-like appearance. His coat can be shortish or even fairly long, and in different colors such as white, tan, brindle, grey and cream with a black mask.

The puppies are born black and then lighten as they grow up. He has a large head with the muzzle being smaller than the skull, narrowing slightly. The nose is black and the ears are set high and are floppy with dark eyes. The tail is set high and is long.

Temperament:

The Caucasian Shepherd is an intelligent breed but he must be properly trained and socialized as he can be stubborn and want to go his own way.

He is a balanced dog and he won’t deliberately hurt whom he regards as family, but he shows distrust towards strangers. While socialization and training relax and calm a dog, the Caucasian Shepherd isn’t regarded as the best dog to have with children around. This is because he comes from a lineage of guard dogs, bred to fight and guard.

He is a dog breed that will require a firm, strong owner and if you don’t have a lot of time on your hands, the Caucasian can be difficult to manage and perhaps isn’t the best choice for a first-time dog owner.

australian collie puppy - descriptionKoolie is a medium bred. Their head is small, with a pointy jaw. Ears are pricked, semi-dropped or dropped. Their coat can be smooth or rough, short or medium length, always with the undercoat. The colours can be Red or Blue Merle, solid Red or Black, sometimes with minimal white or cream speckles. They are usually two-coloured or tricoloured, but some of them are actually one-coloured.

Some Koolie have one or two blue, green or yellow eyes. Eye colour is, of course, affected by the gene that creates the coat pattern and eye colour as well.

They are athletic dogs, with fine bone structure but great stamina. Actually, they were breed to be like that – to work hard, be noticeable among the sheep, eat little and be loyal to one person.

Characteristics

caucasian shepherd dog - characteristicsLoyal, strong, and brave, the Caucasian Shepherd Dog does an excellent job protecting his human family. He is a territorial dog and in the past he has always been ready to take on wolves and bear to protect his sheep. He isn't the best choice for first time dog-owners and where there are small children in the home.

He will do well to be trained and socialized as he becomes an obedient, patient, gentle, loving pet that becomes an excellent companion and protector.

Around children

australian collie dog - characteristicsKoolie is naturally energetic, playful and affectionate so they are naturally very good to raise with children.

Special talents

They are known as great obedience dog. They are very famous as the tracking dogs.

Some of them are successful as the rescue dogs, therapy dogs or educators for school children.

Adaptability

This is not a type of dog that will be alone in the house, wait for you and then be quiet while you rest. They need a great deal of activity and they are not such great choice for indoor life anyways. The best thing for them would be the large yard, with somebody home most of the time. They are great if raised in a family, with children and active owners. They will be great for a loner at the farm as well since that is in their blood. They need enough place to run, chase, play, rest on the sun and be active as they please. They get affectionate towards their families, but they will be accepting their new home when they are older just fine.

Learning ability

They are very good at learning. Intelligent, yes, but yet very silly and playful to do what is told all the time. They will surprise you with how quickly they will pick up the new trick but not feeling like doing it every time you would like them to. Everything is a play for them, so it would be best if you know how to play, be affectionate and friendly to become a good owner of this breed.

Health Problems

caucasian shepherd puppies - health problemsLike all breeds there may be some health issues, even though the Caucasian Shepherd is generally a healthy dog. There are some common illnesses that every dog can get and which every responsible dog owner should be aware of -

Diarrhea:

One or two episodes of diarrhea isn’t an emergency, but ongoing diarrhea can lead to dehydration. If your dog is vomiting, he is lethargic and constantly emptying his bowels, see your vet if the diarrhea persists.

Parasites:

Parasites such as fleas and ticks and even internal parasites such as intestinal worms can drain the life from your pet. It is wise to find out about different parasites so that you can protect your dog. Find out what your vet’s treatment options are for parasites.

australian collie puppies - health problemsIf you are careful enough, you will choose your Koolie form patiently chosen breeders, after checking the health history of the pup and the pup’s family. Advisable is to do these things in person and never to buy a Koolie from a pet shop.

Sometimes, pups can be born blind or deaf pups. They have the great chance of joint problems because of their extreme activity. Their need to run, jump and play all the time may result in damage to cartilage and ligaments, especially since they are not aware of their age most of the time.

There is a chance that pup has skin allergies or immune system issues if they are growing on a farm near the chemicals used for plants, so be careful what kind of herbicide you use if you have a Collie.

In some rare cases, they suffer from seizers. If untreated, they can cause death. If you decide to take him to a regular vet check, you will have a happy and playful life together.

Caring The Pet

caucasian shepherd dogs - caringThe Caucasian Shepherd Dog has a thick double coat that will certainly require brushing twice a week. The coat comes in different lengths – short, medium and long. The hair is mostly long and the long tail is also feathery. The best way to groom your large, furry pet is to invest in some good grooming tools such as a good brush to keep your pet’s hair in tip-top condition.

His nails will need to be trimmed regularly, his ears will also need to be checked to avoid wax build-up and the accumulation of grime. This can lead to an ear infection. His teeth should be brushed 2 or 3 times a week with special dog toothbrush and toothpaste.

Exercise:

The Caucasian Shepherd isn’t going to do well in a small home with tiny garden in the city. He is a big dog that will require a large yard even though he is a fairly low-energy dog. He will be suited to a family that is active, that will take him on daily walks, hikes and include some ball games.

Diet:

You will need to change your Caucasian Shepherd Dog’s food as he goes through the different phases of his life, from puppy to adulthood. Speak to your veterinarian about a commercially produced dog food is you’re unable to give him home-made food. These foods are available in breed-specific and age-specific formulas.

Reputable breeders will also help you ensure that you know how to start feeding your puppy. Caucasian Shepherds are a large breed and apart from their kibble, you’ll want to include rice, vegetables and cooked chicken from time to time in his kibble and also include raw meat occasionally.

If you're unsure, ask your veterinarian or breeder about the best diet to ensure his longevity. Clean, fresh water should be available at all times.

Feeding the puppy and adult

australian collie dogs - caringWhether you choose canned food or dry food, treats as biscuits or left-overs, the quantity is the safest way of keeping the balanced diet for your Collie. They like raw meat and raw bones. Make sure not to feed them with cooked bones because they can do more harm than good.

Grooming

Since Koolie coat can be very short with the undercoat or a bit longer with undercoat, bristle brushing every 3 or 4 days will be enough for them. Some of them like the water and some of them don’t and that is perfectly fine since there is no need for a regular bath.

Points for Good Health

Lots of activities and lots of love. They express their love all the time and you can learn a lot from them actually. They like raw bones and from-the-table delicious treats but make sure not to overfeed them.

The best type of activity

Games that need them to be fast and think quickly. Running with them, driving a bike with them (but not on the leash!) would be a great fun for them. Why not leash? They are so playful and happy and they tend to jump and run to the side to chase a butterfly or catch the falling leaf.

Basic Information

Group:
Molosser dogs
Herding dogs
Origin:
Russia
Australia
Height Male:
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
36 - 40 cm
14 - 16 inches
Height Female:
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
36 - 40 cm
14 - 16 inches
Weight Male:
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
Weight Female:
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
15 - 25 kg
33 - 56 pounds
Life Span:
10 - 12 Years
12 - 18 Years
Litter Size:
5 - 10
4 - 6
Size:
Large dog
Medium dog
Other Names:
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
Australian Koolie, German Koolie, German Coolie
Colors Available:
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
red or blue patterned merle; some of them are born as one colored, usually red/chocolate or black. When they have two colors, they are red and white, black and white, black and tan, red and tan. Tricolor Collie is merle, with tan points and a white chest.
Coat:
Long haired, dense
smooth and short or short and rough; double coated or single coated. Some of them have longer coat their legs or without.
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Affectionate, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Social
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Moderate
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
No
Yes
New Owners Friendly:
No
Yes

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  2. Perro de Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  3. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  4. Caucasian Shepherd vs Bakharwal Dog - Breed Comparison
  5. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cabecudo Boiadeiro - Breed Comparison
  6. Caucasian Shepherd vs Canis Panther - Breed Comparison
  7. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison
  8. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  9. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  10. Molossus vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  11. Danish Broholmer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  12. Sage Koochee vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  13. Cordoba Fighting Dog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  14. Perro Cimarron vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  15. Perro de Toro vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  16. Gran Mastin de Borinquen vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  17. Korean Mastiff vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  18. Samoyed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  19. Labradoodle vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  20. Mixed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  21. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Great Pyrenees vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  23. Old English Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  24. Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  25. Pembroke Welsh Corgi vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  26. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Malinois) vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  27. Bearded Collie vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  28. Collie vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  29. Dutch Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  30. Blue Healer vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  31. English Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  32. Australian Collie vs Australian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  33. Australian Collie vs Australian Cattle Dog - Breed Comparison
  34. Australian Collie vs Austrailian Blue Heeler - Breed Comparison
  35. Australian Collie vs Australian Red Heeler - Breed Comparison
  36. Catahoula Cur vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  37. Catalan Sheepdog vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  38. Pyrenean Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  39. Bergamasco vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  40. Berger Picard vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  41. Appenzell Mountain Dog vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  42. Queensland Heeler vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  43. German Coolie vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  44. Bohemian Shepherd vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  45. Croatian Sheepdog vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  46. Red Heeler vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  47. Belgian Shepherd Dog (Tervuren) vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  48. Blue Lacy vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison
  49. New Zealand Huntaway vs Australian Collie - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds