Overview
The Moscow Watchdog was developed by the Soviet military in the years after the Second World War, crossing St Bernards with Caucasian Shepherd Dogs to produce a large guard dog that was more biddable than the Caucasian and more serious than the St Bernard. It is a heavy red and white dog with a thick coat and a calm, confident bearing. It is rare in the UK.
The breed is affectionate and gentle with its family and reliably watchful of outsiders. It is not usually sharp or reactive, but it was bred to guard and it does. A walker has to be accepted first and then has to manage every encounter with that in mind.
Exercise and walking needs
An hour and a quarter a day in two steady walks is a good level. The breed enjoys a long, unhurried route and does not need running games. Hard exercise is hard on the joints of a dog this size.
The coat is heavy and the dog suffers in heat. Summer walks early in the day, shade where possible and water always.
On the walk
- Acceptance: Meet with the owner more than once before a solo walk. The dog needs to file you under family before it will work for you.
- Strangers: Watchful and protective of the handler. Keep approaches controlled and do not let people reach over the dog.
- Other dogs: Guarded with unknown dogs and not a candidate for group walks. Give loose dogs a wide margin.
- Lead: Does not usually pull, but if it does you are going with it. A strong harness and a short lead, and choose routes that avoid tight passing.
Tips for professional walkers
- Pick quiet routes with good sightlines so you see dogs and people coming.
- Keep handling calm and predictable; the breed settles into routine.
- Carry water and a towel; this is a drooling, shedding dog that likes a paddle.
- Check that your insurance covers a giant guard breed before the first booking.
What to ask the owner
- How does the dog react to visitors and strangers, and how long does acceptance take?
- Has anyone outside the household walked it, and how did you introduce them?
- Any hip, elbow or heart concerns that should limit distance or pace?