Moscow Watchdog
Also called Moskovskaya Storozhevaya Sobaka
From Soviet Union (Russia), developed after the Second World War.1
A friendly guide, not veterinary advice. For anything about your pet's health, ask your vet.
At a glance the quick version
Minimum weights: males at least 55 kg, females at least 45 kg.
Coat and looks how to spot one
thick double coat
A dense double coat built to handle harsh Russian winters, on a big, powerful frame.1
Personality what they are like
A confident, balanced giant that is gentle with its own family and steps up to protect them when needed. Early socialising and training help it grow into a relaxed companion.1
Home where they are happiest
Comfortable in cold climates thanks to its heavy coat; its size calls for a roomy home.1
Company who they like around
Needs early socialisation and consistent training.1
The story where it all began
After the Second World War the Soviet military's Central School of Military Dog Breeding set out to create a large guard dog that could cope with extreme cold. They combined Caucasian Shepherd Dog, St. Bernard and Russian Pinto Hound, and published the first standard in 1958.1
Fun facts for the dinner table
Recognised by the official bits
- Federation of Dog Breeders of Russia
- Approved in 1992.1
- Russian Kennel Club
- Recognised in 1997.1
- FCI
- Not a recognised FCI breed; Wikipedia notes it can be shown in special show classes alongside Group 2 Molossoid breeds.1
The care rhythm Furry Diary remembers it for you
A typical home-care rhythm for a Moscow Watchdog. It is our own starting plan, not a vet's advice, and you can change every line in the app.
- Brushingevery week
- Bathevery 8 weeks
- Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
- Ear checkFloppy ears trap moisture, so check and dry themevery week
- Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
- ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
- Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
- Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year
Owner questions the things everyone asks
How often should I feed my Moscow Watchdog, and at what times?
Feed your adult Moscow Watchdog at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals, at consistent times. Follow the food label for amounts and check with your vet for the right portion.2
What should a Moscow Watchdog eat, and which foods are dangerous?
Feed a high-quality dog food suitable for giant breeds. Avoid dangerous foods like chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and others listed by the ASPCA. Always check with your vet for the best diet.3
How often should I bathe a Moscow Watchdog?
Furry Diary's starting plan suggests bathing every 8 weeks, and general guidance recommends at least every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues.4 Furry Diary plan
How often does a Moscow Watchdog need brushing?
Brush your Moscow Watchdog's thick double coat weekly to remove loose hair and prevent mats. Furry Diary's plan suggests weekly brushing.4 Furry Diary plan
How do I trim a Moscow Watchdog's nails, and how often?
Trim nails every 4 weeks or sooner if you hear them clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain.4 Furry Diary plan
How much exercise does a Moscow Watchdog need?
Your Moscow Watchdog needs daily walks and playtime to stay healthy and happy. This giant breed benefits from moderate exercise, but avoid overexertion. Furry Diary plan
How do I look after a Moscow Watchdog's teeth and ears?
Brush your Moscow Watchdog's teeth every two days (daily is ideal) using dog toothpaste, and check ears weekly for moisture or dirt. Never push anything into the ear canal.4 Furry Diary plan
How long does a Moscow Watchdog live?
Lifespan varies by individual; ask your vet or a good breeder for typical expectations for this breed.
Is a Moscow Watchdog good with children and other pets?
With early socialisation and training, the Moscow Watchdog is gentle and protective with its family. It can be good with children and other pets if raised together, but its guarding instinct means careful introductions.1
Can a Moscow Watchdog be left alone?
Whether a Moscow Watchdog can be left alone depends on its training and temperament. This breed needs companionship and may become anxious if left for long periods; ask a good breeder or vet for advice.
Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Furry Diary's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.
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Where this comes from
Every breed page shows where each fact comes from. If we got something wrong, sorry, we are pet people, not a science magazine. Tell us at [email protected] and we will fix it.
- Wikipedia: Moscow Watchdog en.wikipedia.orgused for all fields
- VCA Animal Hospitals: Feeding times and frequency for your dog vcahospitals.comused for owner questions
- ASPCA: People foods to avoid feeding your pets aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Dog grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- ASPCA: Cat grooming tips aspca.orgused for owner questions
- RSPCA: What to feed your rabbit rspca.org.ukused for owner questions
Checked 2026-09-30. Text is written in our own words from these sources.