Caring for Your Moscow Watchdog: Key Health Concerns and Solutions

Introduction

The Moscow Watchdog is a rare and ancient dog breed originating from Russia. This massive, muscular dog was bred primarily for guarding and watching, hence its name. The Moscow Watchdog has been known for centuries as a protective companion, fiercely loyal to their families, yet aloof with strangers.

Despite being an old breed, the Moscow Watchdog gained popularity in recent years due to their impressive physical appearance and gentle nature. However, owning a Moscow Watchdog requires dedication, responsibility, and a thorough understanding of their needs.

In this article, we will delve into various aspects of caring for a Moscow Watchdog, from their general care requirements to specific considerations for potential owners. Whether you're an experienced dog owner or a first-time pet parent, this comprehensive guide will equip you with the knowledge necessary to give your Moscow Watchdog the best life possible.

General Care

The Moscow Watchdog is a large breed that requires plenty of space and regular exercise. Their enclosure should be spacious enough to accommodate their size, ideally with an outdoor area where they can roam freely.

Exercise Needs

• Daily walks: 2-3 hours, covering distances of around 10-12 kilometers (6-7.5 miles).
• Playtime: Engage in play activities such as fetch, running, or simply letting the dog run around.
• Training: Regular training sessions to maintain and improve obedience.

Living Space

• Minimum area size: An indoor space measuring at least 50 square meters (538 square feet) with no restrictions or obstacles.
• Outdoor enclosure: 150-200 square meters (1,614-2,153 square feet), secured from escape routes.

Temperature and Humidity Levels

• Moscow Watchdogs prefer cooler temperatures between 15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F).
• The humidity levels in the living space should be moderate to avoid stress on the dog's skin.

Moscow Watchdog Issues

While no breed is perfect, some specific issues are worth noting when considering adoption or ownership. Some common health issues and behavioral traits include:

Orthopedic Problems

• Joint problems: Hip dysplasia, cruciate ligament rupture.
• Spinal degeneration: Age is a significant factor in this, so regular exercise becomes crucial as the dog ages.

Feeding a Moscow Watchdog

The diet of a Moscow Watchdog should be balanced and tailored to their specific needs. Consider the following:

Nutritional Requirements

• High-quality meat (60-70% of calories).
• Proportions of carbohydrates should contribute only 20-30%.
• Fat content must not exceed 15%.

Age-Specific Feeding Guidelines

• Puppyhood stages: Feed puppies a puppy-specific diet within the first months of birth, gradually introducing solid foods.
• Adolescence (12-18 months): Use regular dog food with necessary protein levels (25-30% of calories).
• Adult age: Increase fat content and reduce carbohydrate percentages. Monitor body condition.
• Senior stage (6+ years): Consider reducing caloric intake by replacing some portion with vegetables or gradually decreasing portion sizes.

Moscow Watchdog Behavior and Training Tips

Moscow Watchdogs are highly trainable, making them suitable for families and hunters who value their hunting prowess.

Building a Relationship

• Gradual socialization: Exposure to various environments and people since early age.
• Bonding: Reward-positive interaction; avoid aggression towards the breed due to its sensitive nature.

Training Techniques

• Positive reinforcement with reward (treats) and affection (compliments).
• Impartial rewards for desired behavior, such as 'sit.' Use consistency when teaching commands.
• Treat your Moscow Watchdog like they are being initiated into an exclusive club.
• Training period varies from 6-9 months.

Moscow Watchdog Grooming Guide

Grooming a Moscow Watchdog is relatively simple. Some guidelines to follow include:

Brushing

• Regular brushing with rubber gloves or slick-brush.
• Coat duration increases due to genetic predisposition of curly hairs in some Moscow Watchdogs.

Nail Care

• Trim regularly, keeping nail length at around 8-10 millimeters from the paw pad edge. Failure may lead to skin damage.

Considerations for Pet Parents

Before welcoming a Moscow Watchdog into your family or property, you should carefully consider their specific demands and potential drawbacks:

Housing Costs and Land Usage

• Expensive living spaces (around 1000-1500 a month).
• Large land requirements can mean increased maintenance or rent costs.

Health Expenditures

• Regular health expenses for the dog's orthopedic problems.
• Surgical operations may incur significant additional bills due to the breed's size and muscle complexity.

Moscow Watchdog FAQs

Here are some answers to frequently asked questions about this magnificent breed:

Q: Can I keep a Moscow watchdog in an apartment? No, they require space due to their large size and exercise needs. If living alone or as a single person you may need extra help for their walks, training or exercising.

Q: Do they get along with children? Yes. Due to temperament traits of Moscow Watchdogs they are more patient around young ones while some owners report success keeping larger animals such as a goat close together.

Conclusion

The Moscow Watchdog remains an enigmatic and captivating breed, often considered an ideal choice for experienced dog owners seeking companionship and guardianship from their loyal companion. While potential drawbacks do exist, it is our sincere hope that this comprehensive guide helps those drawn to the majesty of Moscow Watchdogs navigate challenges ahead.