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Moscow Guard
Origin
Russia
Size
Giant Breed
Ideal Space
House with backyard
Ideal Weather
10º-24ºC
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹5,700
Basic Lifestyle
₹8,550
Premium Lifestyle
Top 5 Traits
Loyal
Protective
Intelligent
Energetic
Fearless
The Moscow Guard, also known as the Moscow Watchdog, is a relatively new breed developed in Russia after World War II. It was created by crossing Saint Bernards, Caucasian Shepherds, and other large working breeds to produce a powerful guard dog with strong protective instincts. Moscow Guards are known for their size, muscular build, and thick coat, which makes them well-suited for colder climates. These dogs are often used for guarding large estates or properties due to their territorial and fearless nature.
Temperamentally, the Moscow Guard is a calm, confident, and highly loyal breed. They form strong bonds with their family members and are particularly protective of them. Early socialization and firm training are essential to ensure they grow into well-behaved adults, as they can be strong-willed and independent. They are naturally wary of strangers, making them excellent guard dogs, but they are generally gentle and affectionate with their families, especially with children if raised together.
While Moscow Guards are intelligent and trainable, they require a firm hand and consistent leadership. They are not ideal for first-time dog owners as they need someone who understands their guarding instincts and can provide proper mental and physical stimulation. Regular exercise, including long walks or outdoor activities, is necessary to keep them healthy and happy, as their size and energy levels can lead to boredom if not properly engaged.
Barking
Quiet
Loud
Temperament with Kids
Aggressive
Friendly
Playfulness
Silent
Very Playful
Friendliness
Not Friendly
Super Friendly
Compatibility with other dogs
Aggressive
Friendly
Need for attention
Independent
Very Needy
Monthly Food Expenses
₹ 3,000 - ₹ 4,500
Calories per day
Puppies: 1800 kcal
Adults: 2200 kcal
Essential Nutrients
Carbohydrates
Fats
Minerals
Protein
Vitamins
Fibre
List of foods
Dry Dog Food
Fresh Meat
Fresh Fish
Home made meals
Fruits
Vegetables
Chicken
Moscow Guards, being large and active dogs, require a balanced diet to support their energy levels and muscle mass. Their diet should be rich in protein, which is crucial for building and maintaining their strong physique. Healthy fats provide the necessary energy for their active lifestyle. While carbohydrates are less essential, they should come from whole grains and vegetables to offer sustained energy and fiber for digestion. Essential vitamins and minerals are also vital for immune function, bone health, and overall well-being.
Moscow Guard puppies have unique nutritional needs due to their rapid growth. Their diet should consist of high-quality protein sources like chicken, mutton, and fish, along with healthy fats for brain development. Adequate calcium and phosphorus are essential to support their large bones during this growth phase. It's crucial to transition puppies to adult food gradually to ensure they receive proper nutrients without overfeeding, which could lead to joint problems.
Note: These are general guidelines. Consult a veterinarian to determine the specific dietary needs of your dog.
The Moscow Guard thrives on high-quality, nutrient-dense food that supports its large size and energetic nature. A balanced diet of dry dog food, supplemented with fresh meat or fish, is ideal to provide both essential macronutrients and variety. Dry dog food helps maintain dental health, while fresh sources of protein like chicken and mutton are excellent for building and maintaining muscle mass. Including vegetables in their diet ensures they receive adequate fiber, vitamins, and minerals, supporting digestion and a strong immune system.
Providing homemade meals, when balanced properly, can be another excellent option. Meals that include fresh meats, vegetables, and a balanced carbohydrate source will help maintain their energy levels and overall health. It's crucial to avoid overfeeding and ensure portion control, as their large size could lead to weight gain if not properly managed. A Moscow Guard should have access to clean, fresh water throughout the day to stay hydrated, particularly when consuming dry food.
Avoid anything with these ingredients
Alcohol
Almonds
Cherries
Cinnamon
Dairy
Garlic
Grapes
Mushrooms
Onions
Salt
Sugar
Certain foods and ingredients should be avoided when feeding a Moscow Guard. Highly processed foods, excessive fillers like corn and soy, and artificial additives can lead to health problems, including allergies, digestive issues, and obesity. Foods high in sodium and preservatives, often found in low-quality dog food, should be kept out of their diet, as these can negatively affect their heart health and overall well-being.
Additionally, some human foods are dangerous for dogs and should never be part of their diet, such as chocolate, onions, garlic, grapes, and certain artificial sweeteners like xylitol. These can cause serious harm, including organ failure or toxic reactions. It’s essential to stick to natural, nutrient-rich ingredients that are suitable for their breed size and health requirements, ensuring they remain healthy and active throughout their life.
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,500 - ₹ 2,250
Common Health Issues
Bloat
Canine distemper
Hip Dysplasia
Parasites
Parvovirus
Leptospirosis
Rabies
Heartworm
Well being
Exercise
Agility Training
Bonding
Games
Socialization
Energy Level
Medium
Exercise routine
45 - 90 minutes
Recognising Stress
Changes in appetite
Excessive Barking
Pacing
Excessive Panting
Reluctance to move
Increased laziness
The Moscow Guard is generally a hardy and robust breed, thanks to its strong genetic background. However, like many large breeds, they are prone to specific health concerns. Bloat, or gastric torsion, is one of the most severe conditions they may face, as it can be life-threatening if not treated immediately. To prevent bloat, it is crucial to avoid feeding them large meals at once and limiting intense physical activity after eating. Hip Dysplasia is another common issue in large dogs like the Moscow Guard, which can lead to arthritis or difficulty moving as they age. Regular vet check-ups and maintaining a healthy weight can help manage this condition.
Other health issues the Moscow Guard may face include heartworm, canine influenza, and various parasitic infections, particularly if they spend a lot of time outdoors. Preventive care, including vaccinations and routine screenings, is key to keeping them healthy. Additionally, their joints and bones can be affected by panosteitis, a condition seen in rapidly growing puppies, leading to temporary lameness. Monitoring their activity levels and ensuring a balanced diet can mitigate these issues.
Growth Stage
Core Vaccines
6-8 weeks
DHPP (Distemper, Hepatitis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza)
10-12 weeks
Second DHPP booster
14-16 weeks
Third DHPP booster and Rabies
Annually
Rabies booster
As the Moscow Guard ages, their health needs change, and providing proper medical care becomes essential. Senior dogs are more prone to joint issues like arthritis, making it important to manage their weight and ensure they receive joint supplements as recommended by a veterinarian. Regular check-ups are vital for early detection of age-related conditions like heart disease or kidney problems. Maintaining a moderate exercise routine will help keep their muscles strong without overexertion, as their energy levels tend to decrease with age.
Additionally, senior Moscow Guards may require adjustments to their diet, focusing on nutrient-rich, low-calorie food to prevent unnecessary weight gain. Regular dental care is also crucial, as oral health problems can become more common in older dogs. Monitoring their behavior and recognizing any signs of pain or discomfort, such as reluctance to move or changes in appetite, will help ensure they live a comfortable and healthy life in their later years.
Important Note: This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for personalized advice.
Avg Monthly Expenses
₹ 1,200 - ₹ 1,800
Shedding Level
High Shedding
Hygienic Checklist
Teeth Care
Eye Care
Nail Trimming
Brushing
Bathing
Ear Cleaning
Benefits of Grooming
Cleanliness
Low Shedding
Odourless
Prevents Bad Breath
Prevents infections
Quality of life
The Moscow Guard has a thick, dense coat that requires regular grooming to maintain its health and cleanliness. Due to their high shedding, it’s essential to brush them at least 2–3 times a week to remove loose fur and prevent matting, especially during shedding seasons. Bathing should be done every few months or as needed to keep their coat clean, while nail trimming and ear cleaning should be part of the regular grooming routine to avoid infections. Grooming not only keeps the Moscow Guard looking their best but also prevents issues such as bad odor, excessive shedding, and skin infections, contributing to their overall quality of life.
Cost of buying
₹ 25,000 - ₹ 80,000
Buying or adopting are the two main possibilities if you're thinking about getting a Moscow Guard for your house.
Buying: Selecting a reliable breeder is crucial when purchasing a pet. Make sure the breeder gives the dogs the care they need and adheres to moral breeding procedures.
To confirm the dog's health and pedigree, request health certificates and lineage documentation.
Cost of a Moscow Guard depends on a number of variables including ancestry, potential for show quality, and breeder reputation.
Adopting: Offering a needy pet a loving home through adoption is a fantastic choice. See if any breed-specific rescues, local animal shelters, or rescue organizations have a Moscow Guard up for adoption.
Vaccinations, spaying/neutering, and initial medical care are usually included in adoption fees. These charges differ, but they are typically less than what it would cost to purchase from a breeder.
Access to Veterinary
Appropriate Climate
Space and Environment
Lifestyle Compatibility
Time and Effort
Access to Groomer
Now that you know what it takes to raise a undefined, are you ready to take the next step to pet one?
Research: Do a thorough review of the traits, requirements, and possible health problems of the breed. Ensure that the Moscow Guard breed is a good fit for your lifestyle.
Find Reputable Sources: When purchasing from breeders, look out for trustworthy breeders who have an emphasis on the temperament and well-being of the dogs. If you're thinking about adopting, check out the local rescue or animal shelters.
Visit the Breeder/Adoption Center: Make plans to meet the dogs or pups by scheduling a visit to the breeder or adoption center. Inquire about their health, immunization history, and socializing while keeping an eye on their living conditions.
Ask for documentation: Ask the breeder for vaccination records, health certificates, and any other relevant paperwork. If the dog is being adopted, find out about its past, present health, and behavior.
Prepare your home: Create a safe and comfortable space for your dog. Prepare your house for a puppy if you're adopting a young dog. Ensure you have the necessary supplies, including food, bowls, a bed, and grooming tools.
Are Moscow Guard dogs prone to aggressive behavior?
Moscow Guard dogs are generally not aggressive when properly socialized and trained, but they may become protective if they sense threatened.
Can Moscow Guard dogs be off-leash in open areas?
It is usually advised to keep Moscow Guard dogs on a leash or in a securely fenced area when they are outside due to their protective nature and tendency to chase small animals.
Do the Moscow Guard dogs bark a lot?
Although they might bark to warn their owners about possible dangers, appropriate training can help reduce excessive barking.
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