Moscow Watchdog

Also called Moskovskaya Storozhevaya Sobaka

A confident, balanced giant that is gentle with its own family and steps up to protect them when needed.

Size	Giant
Weight	45 to 55 kg (99 to 121 lb)males from 55 kg, females from 45 kg1
Height	72 to 78 cm (28 to 31 in)males 77 to 78 cm, females 72 to 73 cm1
Coat	Thick double coat
Origin	Soviet Union (Russia), developed after the Second World War.1
Group	FCI group 2

Rare breedShort profile

calm and self-assured

gentle giant with its family

protective watchdog

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

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

Coloursred piebaldwhite with red patchesred and blacksable with black mask1

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Moscow Watchdog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

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

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

1
The breed was created by the Soviet Ministry of Defence's military dog school.1
2
The first Moscow Watchdog litter in the USA was born in 2015.1
3
Hungary has become a stronghold of the breed, with around 500 dogs.1

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name 'Moscow Watchdog' (Moskovskaya Storozhevaya Sobaka) translates to 'Moscow Guard Dog' in Russian, reflecting its origin in Moscow and its primary role as a guard dog.1

Famous ones stars of the breed

Orso A Moscow Watchdog that gained internet fame for his massive size and gentle demeanor, featured in viral videos and social media posts.2
Baron A Moscow Watchdog that became a popular internet sensation due to his impressive size and protective nature, often featured in online articles and videos.3

Name ideas for your new friend

IvanNikaBorisMishaSashaOlgaYuriKatyaDmitriAnyaVladRuslan

A day in the life told by a Moscow Watchdog

I woke up early, stretched my big body, and padded softly to check on my family. Everyone was safe, so I went outside to patrol the garden. I sniffed the fence line and sat for a while, watching the birds. Later, my human came out and gave me a scratch behind the ears. We walked slowly around the yard together. Inside, I lay by the fire while the children played nearby. When a stranger came to the door, I stood tall and gave a low woof, then relaxed when my human smiled. At night, I curled up beside the bed, content and watchful.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

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

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

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.4

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.5

How often should I bathe a Moscow Watchdog?

Pet Wiki'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.6 Pet Wiki 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. Pet Wiki's plan suggests weekly brushing.6 Pet Wiki 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.6 Pet Wiki 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. Pet Wiki 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.6 Pet Wiki 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 Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.