The South Russian Ovcharka or South Russian Shepherd Dog is breed of flock guardian dog. It developed in the areas of the Russian Empire and the Soviet Union that are now Ukraine and southern Russia, and is thought to derive from cross-breeding between local dogs of the Russian steppes and long-haired shepherd dogs brought to the area from Spain in the late eighteenth century together with Merino sheep. These may have been similar in appearance to the present-day Gos d'Atura Catala.
The breed was developed in the Russian steppes, specifically in regions that are now part of Ukraine and southern Russia.
The South Russian Ovcharka is a large and powerful breed known for its protective instincts and independent nature. Historically, they served as flock guardians in the steppes of Russia and Ukraine, and they continue to be valued for their ability to protect livestock from predators. These dogs are known for their intelligence and strong-willed temperament, requiring experienced handling and training.
Image from about 1915
Trainability
Responsiveness to training: —/5