Moscow Watchdog

The Moscow Watchdog is a Soviet military creation — a Saint Bernard crossed with the Caucasian Shepherd to get the size with more drive.

History

It was developed at the Red Star kennel outside Moscow from the late 1940s, in the same state programme that produced the Black Russian Terrier, for guarding military and industrial sites. The Saint Bernard supplied the frame and the Caucasian Shepherd the alertness the army wanted; it is recognised in Russia but not internationally.

Temperament

The breed is known for being calm, confident and strongly protective, attached to its own household and watchful rather than aggressive with strangers.

Care and training

It needs space, secure boundaries, early socialising and an experienced owner. Exercise needs are moderate for the size. The thick coat sheds heavily.

Health

Known tendencies are those of very large breeds: hip and elbow dysplasia, bloat, and heart conditions. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.