East European Shepherd

Dog Breed Profile

East European Shepherd History

The East European Shepherd is a breed of working herding dog from Eastern Europe. It is sometimes called the Dzungarian Sheepdog, or simply the Eastern European Sheepdog. The origins of the East European Shepherd are unclear, with some sources suggesting that the type originates from the Caucasus Mountains, while others suggest that it originated as a Polish import. The Eastern-European shepherd has been recognised and classified by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) since 1957, and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) as an “Other Herding Group”.

Time of Origin

1930s

Country of Origin

Russia

Ancestry

German Shepherd, Caucasian Shepherd, Central Asian Shepherd

East European Shepherd Physical Characteristics

The East European Shepherd is a large, medium-size breed of working dog that originated in Russia. They have a muscular, athletic build with a powerful, thick neck, wide, set, and triangular ears, and a medium length, straight, and glossy coat that is either gray, white, or sable. They have a rectangular head with a pronounced jaw and oval-shaped eyes. The East European Shepherd is an active and energetic breed that makes a good guard, companion, and hunting dog.

Eye Colors

Brown, Amber

Nose Colors

Black

Coat Colors

Black, Brown, Blue, White, Sable

Height Range

Male Height Range: 26 – 30 inches

Female Height Range: 24 – 28 inches

Weight Range

Male Weight Range: 77 – 132 lbs

Female Weight Range: 66 – 110 lbs

East European Shepherd Health

Description of breed health.

Lifespan

10-14 yrs

East European Shepherd Health Concerns

None Known, Ear Infections

East European Shepherd Temperament and Behaviour

The East European Shepherd is a protective, dominant and highly intelligent breed of dog. They are independent, but are also very loyal to their families. They can be very wary of strangers, but are usually very friendly with familiar people.

East European Shepherd Activity Requirements

East European Shepherds were bred to be guarding and herding dogs, which means they were bred to be active. While they are large, athletic dogs, they are gentle giants. East European Shepherds do require quite a bit of exercise and they do like to play. They thrive on having a job to do, whether it’s participating in dog sports or working with their human partner. If you live in a home with a yard, your East European Shepherd will be able to run around and burn off some of that excess energy. However, even apartment dwellers can successfully raise an East European Shepherd. They just need lots of attention and regular walks.