20. Caucasian Ovtcharka
Average Price: $2,000*
Country of Origin: Georgia
The Caucasian Shepherd Dog originated in Georgia and was developed as a working dog for the Soviet Union. Soviet breeders selected various Shepherd Dog breeds from Azerbaijan and Georgia to create the CSD, also known as the Caucasian Mountain Dog, Caucasian Ovcharka, or Nagazi.
Shepherd dogs have a long history in the Caucasus mountains, where they protected livestock in ancient times. The Ovcharka is a large breed, with males weighing up to 220 pounds and females up to 180 pounds, comparable in size to the St. Bernard. They typically live for about 12 years.
As stated by the American Kennel Club, this breed’s protective and fearless nature means it should not be underestimated. Some breeders on YouTube claim that a Caucasian Ovcharka can even take down a wolf. While this might be true, it’s advisable to keep your Ovcharka away from potential dangers or conflicts, as these dogs are known for their unwavering determination.