Hokkaido vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

Hokkaido vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed ComparisonHokkaido is originated from Japan but Caucasian Shepherd is originated from Russia. Hokkaido may grow 24 cm / 9 inches shorter than Caucasian Shepherd. Hokkaido may weigh 51 kg / 112 pounds lesser than Caucasian Shepherd. Hokkaido may live 3 years more than Caucasian Shepherd. Hokkaido may have less litter size than Caucasian Shepherd. Both Hokkaido and Caucasian Shepherd requires Moderate maintenance.

History

hokkaido - historyThe Hokkaido breed originates in Japan and is also called Ainu-ken, Ainu dog, Seta or Do-ken. The last being its common name in Japan. It is believed that the Hokkaido is descendent from the Japanese Matagi-ken, meaning hunting dog, deer hunting dog or bear hunting dog. It was the Ainu peoples that brought the breed to Tohoku. Many years later the Yayoi people brought in another breed of hunting dogs. These breeds were in isolation for most of their existence and therefore they had little influence on the further development of other breeds.

The Ainu dog was used in searches as well as hunting and became in 1937 “a rare species in Japan that is protected by law”. At that time the Official Name of the breed was set in place as Hokkaido-Inu. But they are still called Hokkaid0-Ken by most Japanese people.

This is a very rare breed of dog. It is hardly known outside of Japan and in country there are about ten to twelve thousand remaining. Of those about nine hundred to one thousand are registered in Japan every year. It is guessed that less than thirty exist outside Japan.

The Hokkaido breed is the oldest Japanese breed of dogs. Today they are great indoor companions, loyal and friendly. Most people in Japan still call them the Ainu dog.

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.

Description

hokkaido puppy - descriptionThe Hokkaido breed is medium in size but very strong in build. Dogs bred outside Japan tend to be smaller. They have wide, deep chests, and long thick coats compared with Japanese dogs from other breeds. It is a double coat of long fur on top and short softer fur underneath for the second coat. Their ears are triangular and small while their eyes have a triangle outline. The double coat could be sesame, white, red, black, black and tan and wolf-gray.

They are an intelligent breed with an impulsive gait. They are alert, courageous and suspicious. They were used for guarding the city gates. Their skull is flat and broad and the tongue, like the chow chow, is blueish. black. With a black nose and a wedge shaped muzzle, the Hokkaido is a handsome dog. His lips are with black and tight. High set, thick tail over the back or slightly curved to the side.

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.

Characteristics

Children friendliness

hokkaido dog - characteristicsChildren friendliness very good with every member of the family and that includes children

Special talents

They have terrific stamina and good judgement

Adaptability

Good. They can adapt to live anywhere

Learning ability

They are intelligent and anxious to learn

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.

Health Problems

hokkaido puppies - health problemsOften breeds that are isolated like the Hokkaido, have a pretty good health history but there are a few serious issues that they face.

CEA- Collie Eye Anomaly

1/3 of all dogs have it while 2/3 are carriers. This disease is congenital and there is no cure. It affects the sclera, retina and choroid. It can be mild or it can cause blindness.

Hip Dysplasia

Affecting joints and cause arthritis and lameness.

Luxating Patella

Floating kneecap – not as prevalent here as in smaller dogs.

Heart Mumurs

Could be mild or serious. Could require a pacemaker.

Idiopathic Seizures

Seizures of an unknown origin. Can be treated with medication not cured.

Psychogenic Polydipsia

Excessive, uncontrollable urge to drink large amounts of fluid without a stimuli.

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.

Caring The Pet

Feeding the puppy

hokkaido dogs - caringThe puppy needs about 300 -400 calories per day in 3-4 servings per day

Feeding the adult

The adult dog needs about 250-350 calories a day to maintain good weight and health. Feed 2-3 times per day.

Health Factors

Strong, stamina

Games and Exercises

These dogs love exercise and definitely need it. They will get to be anxious or bored if they don’t get enough exercise. A back yard run is fine but remember that the Hokkaido is a jumper and make sure your fence is at least six feet high. They need daily walks even if you have a fenced yard. Martindale collars or harnesses are needed when walking them.

These dogs love games and competitive activities. They are good at hunting and guarding of course. There are other activities they can excel at and enjoy jogging, biking with you, and hiking. In competition they enjoy and are good at agility, flyball, lure coursing, rally, weight pull, dock diving, and obedience. They do not participate in confirmation.

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.

Basic Information

Group:
Working dog
Molosser dogs
Origin:
Japan
Russia
Height Male:
48 - 51 cm
18 - 21 inches
70 - 75 cm
27 - 30 inches
Height Female:
20 - 30 cm
7 - 12 inches
67 - 72 cm
26 - 29 inches
Weight Male:
46 - 49 kg
101 - 109 pounds
50 - 100 kg
110 - 221 pounds
Weight Female:
17 - 27 kg
37 - 60 pounds
45 - 90 kg
99 - 199 pounds
Life Span:
11 - 15 Years
10 - 12 Years
Litter Size:
4 - 7
5 - 10
Size:
Medium dog
Large dog
Other Names:
Ainu-ken, Hokkaido-Ken, Dō-ken, Seta, Ainu dog
Caucasian Ovcharka, Caucasian Mountain Dog
Colors Available:
black, and wolf grey, red, sesame, brindle, white
Fawn, brownish to dark grey, black - bi-colored
Coat:
double coat made up of protective, coarse outer guard hairs, and a fine, thick undercoat
Long haired, dense
Shedding:
Moderate
Moderate
Temperament:
Affectionate, Alert, Docile, Energetic, Gentle, Intelligent, Loving, Loyal, Responsive
Affectionate, Aggressive, Alert, Cheerful, Courageous, Curious, Energetic, Friendly, Independent, Intelligent, Lively, Loving, Loyal, Outgoing, Playful, Protective, Responsive, Social, Stubborn, Territorial
Grooming:
Moderate maintenance
Moderate maintenance
Trainability:
Easy
Moderate
Hypoallergenic:
No
No
Kids Friendly:
Yes
No
New Owners Friendly:
Yes
No

Comparison with other breeds

  1. Sakhalin Husky vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  2. Portuguese Water Dog vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  3. Puli vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  4. McNab vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  5. Porcelaine vs Hokkaido - Breed Comparison
  6. Hokkaido vs American Bulldog - Breed Comparison
  7. Hokkaido vs Border Collie - Breed Comparison
  8. Hokkaido vs Alaskan Husky - Breed Comparison
  9. Hokkaido vs Catahoula Leopard - Breed Comparison
  10. Hokkaido vs German Pinscher - Breed Comparison
  11. Hokkaido vs Aidi - Breed Comparison
  12. Hokkaido vs Griffon Bleu de Gascogne - Breed Comparison
  13. Hokkaido vs Borador - Breed Comparison
  14. Hokkaido vs German Spaniel - Breed Comparison
  15. Hokkaido vs Canadian Eskimo Dog - Breed Comparison
  16. Hokkaido vs Finnish Lapphund - Breed Comparison
  17. Hokkaido vs Berger Blanc Suisse - Breed Comparison
  18. Hokkaido vs Griffon Nivernais - Breed Comparison
  19. Hokkaido vs Australian Kelpie - Breed Comparison
  20. Hokkaido vs Griffon Fauve de Bretagne - Breed Comparison
  21. Hokkaido vs Basque Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  22. Hokkaido vs Istrian Sheepdog - Breed Comparison
  23. Hokkaido vs Jamthund - Breed Comparison
  24. Hokkaido vs Karelian Bear Dog - Breed Comparison
  25. Hokkaido vs Karelo-Finnish Laika - Breed Comparison
  26. Dogue De Bordeaux vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  27. Perro de Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  28. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cane Corso - Breed Comparison
  29. Caucasian Shepherd vs Bakharwal Dog - Breed Comparison
  30. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cabecudo Boiadeiro - Breed Comparison
  31. Caucasian Shepherd vs Canis Panther - Breed Comparison
  32. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Castro Laboreiro - Breed Comparison
  33. Caucasian Shepherd vs Cao de Fila da Terceira - Breed Comparison
  34. Dogo Guatemalteco vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  35. Molossus vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  36. Danish Broholmer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  37. Sage Koochee vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  38. Cordoba Fighting Dog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  39. Perro Cimarron vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  40. Perro de Toro vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  41. Gran Mastin de Borinquen vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  42. Korean Mastiff vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  43. Samoyed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  44. Labradoodle vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  45. Mixed vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  46. German Shorthaired Pointer vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  47. Great Pyrenees vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  48. Old English Sheepdog vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison
  49. Presa Canario vs Caucasian Shepherd - Breed Comparison

View/Compare Breeds

Popular Dog Breeds