East-European Shepherd, often called the Russian German shepherd, is a Soviet dog variation of the German Shepherd. This Russian dog breed is larger and heavier built than its German ancestor.
It has a powerful and muscular frame, a massive head with dark, oval-shaped eyes, and long, vertical ears. Its medium-length double coat is denser to allow this Russian dog to withstand cold winters. The usual coat colors are black, black and tan, black and red, brown, gray and red, sable, sometimes with a dark facial mask.
With its Russian name Vostochnoevropejskaya Ovcharka (sheepdog in Russian), the East-European Shepherd remains one of the most popular watchdogs and guard dogs in its native country. Outside Russia, it is still not widely recognized and considered to be a rare dog breed.
East-European Shepherd (Ovcharka)
The East-European Shepherd originated in the 1920s-1930s as the result of crossbreeding German Shepherds with such Russian dog breeds as Caucasian dog, Central Asian dog, and Laikas. The Soviet military, impressed by the German Shepherd's working abilities, wanted to create a similar Russian dog more suited for the climate, with a stronger body and bite. The development of this Russian German shepherd started in the Byelorussian region, and the breed was initially called the Byelorussian Ovcharka.
After WWII the careful and systematic breeding was resumed, resulting in a new Soviet dog breed, the East European Shepherd, distinctly different from the German Shepherd. Its first standard was approved in 1964, while the new Russian dog became the main military and the KGB service breed.
Russian Ovcharka Characteristics
The East European Shepherd is probably the most intelligent of the Russian guard dogs (Caucasian dog, Central Asian dog, Russian Sheepdog, Russian Terrier, and Moscow dog). It has not only an honorable protective instinct but also a very well-balanced character. This Russian German shepherd is resistant and aggressive to strangers as well as fiercely loyal and affectionate to its family. It is very devoted and will protect its master at all costs.
When on guarding duty, the East European Shepherd usually keeps silent, which makes it a perfect watchdog. It is very trainable and obedient, making this breed a favorite of many professional dog trainers.
This Russian dog doesn't have major health concerns though it may suffer from hip dysplasia and other common large dogs' issues. Its lifespan is 10-14 years.
Owning the East European Shepherd doesn't create big problems for an experienced owner. Anyway, this Russian guard dog should be socialized early and is not recommended to apartment families with very small children. It is rather a very good companion for active people, especially in a rural environment.
East European Shepherd Size:
Height: 24 to 30 inches (males 26-30, females 24-28)
Weight: 66 to 132 pounds (males 77-132, females 66-110)
German Shepherd vs East European Shepherd
There are some notable differences between the German Shepherd Dog and the East European Shepherd.
Russian German Shepherds are a bit taller and generally look larger than their German ancestors. They don't have sloping backs and they are lighter in color. On the other hand, German Shepherds are more playful whereas East European Shepherds are calmer and more task-oriented.
International Recognition
The breed is officially recognized by national kennel clubs of Azerbaijan, Belarus, Belgium, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, Hungary, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Moldova, Montenegro, Norway, Netherlands, Poland, Romania, Russia, Sweden, Switzerland, Serbia, Slovakia, Slovenia, Ukraine.
Breed Names:
East European Shepherd, Russian German shepherd, Russian Ovcharka, East European Ovcharka, Byelorussian Ovcharka, Byelorussian Owtcharka, Vostochnoevropejskaya Ovcharka, Owczarek Wsohodnioeuropejski, East European Ovtcharka, VEO, Russian: Восточноевропейская овчарка
Say it in Russian:
Summing-Up
The East European Shepherd is a balanced, active, self-confident, attentive, and easy-to-train dog that becomes a good friend and reliable protector of its owner.
Find a Russian dog name for your Russian German shepherd puppy!
Learn some Russian dog commands!
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Khalid Bashir Khan says
Hello my name is Khalid Bashir Khan I wants to know that where I can find the best breeds of Russian dogs in Russia
RussianDog says
Hello, there are over 20 Russian breeds to choose from. Please view this page https://www.russiandog.net/russian-dog-breeds
Beri says
RMD EAST-EUROPEAN SHEPHERDS; We are a breeder of Champion Line East-European Shepherds (VEO), located in Toronto, Canada 🇨🇦. Please visit our Website (easteuropeanshepherds.ca) to learn more about this amazing breed and our Champion Line dogs.
Chris says
Does anyone know of any breeders of these Russian German Shepherds in the United States?
Claudia Engelhorn says
Hi
On PuppySpot I found an adorable puppy that turned into a beautiful young dog. Her ears were huge and so were her paws. Her character every sweet and confident, her energy amazing, her obedience is great, though she does try to test. The more I learn about east German or Russian German Shepherds the more I know she has the genes of that side of the ocean.
She has a straight back, is sable colored, has a beautiful face and expressive eyes.
She is one beautiful dog inside and out.
RussianDog says
Glad for you Claudia. Good luck to you and your dog!
Alla says
Felix,
thank you so much for our Mukhtar! He’s 1.5 years old and he’s becoming an amazing dog. We love him so much! He’s so protective of our family and extremely intelligent, and so strong and handsome! A great combination of King and Hannah.
Maya Torgerson says
Where can I purchase Russian German Shepherd puppy around Philadelphia or New York? How much does a puppy like that with papers (or without) typically run?
Thank you!
RussianDog says
It’s still a rare breed in the US. Closest to you is the Miami kennel. Try to visit their website russianshepherd_com
Longtime GSD lover says
How can you research the ethics of these breeders when purchasing such an expensive dog? The Russians have a bleak reputation in the human adoption area, so can’t imagine how careful you’d have to be when mere animals are involved. I’m a 55 year GSD owner with showing and Schutzhund experience, and would love one of these dogs, but the process scares me unless I had references from Americans who have had positive experiences buying and importing a dog.
RussianDog says
Actually, there’s a breeding kennel in Miami owned by Mr Puga (see his comments and phone number in older comments).
Felix Puga says
HELLO JACK TO BUY A DOG IS VERY DIFFERENT THAN TO BUY CLASSIC CARS. DOGS BECOME FAMILY MEMBER. THEY NEED CARE, LOVE AND DEDICATION.
GOOD LUCK.
FELIX
Tatyana says
Your website referencing last puppies 07/21/2018. Are you continue to breed East European Shepherd?
Thank you.
FELIX PUGA says
yes we do Tatyana. Thanks. Felix 12/25/2019
Jack says
I’m interested in German shepherd puppies for sale in Russia. Old Russian classic cars. Anything that I can find interested.
RussianDog says
You may probably google the Russian internet.
Jennifer beck says
Do you have any puppies available now or in the near future?
RussianDog says
Thank you for your inquiry, Jennifer. We don’t sell dogs but you can view the older comments (on the next comments page) by Felix Puga. They’ve got a well-known Eastern European Shepherds kennel in Miami that often sells puppies.
Biswajit Mallick says
I need a black German Shepherd puppy. Please tell me the price & details
Felix Puga says
Hi Dannielle, we are located in the Redland in south Florida . At this moment, we have one beautiful female young dog. She is black with white star on the chest. 18 months old, she is fixed. Please call us at 305 461 2828 Donna or 786 402 3297 Felix for more information.
Dannielle says
I am looking for a black Russian shephard puppy. Where can I find a reputable one, preferably near Alabama?
FELIX & JP says
HI DEBRA, PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT OUR WEBSITE russianshepherd_com YOU WILL FIND THE REAL GOOD SHEPHERDS. WE ARE LOCATED IN MIAMI FLORIDA. I AGREE WITH YOUR COMMENTS.
BEST WISHES.
Debra S says
I’m impressed with the build of these dogs. I cringe at what the USA is breeding now… they are ruining the dog’s backs, making them look more and more like a hyena… It cannot be a good thing! NO wild dog anyway has that horrid slop to it’s back. I want a GSD very much, as a good family farm dog, but I despair of finding a correct healthy one here in the states.
Tom Pierron 2509999551 says
Hi I emailed you about your shepherds but forgot to ask about pure black shepherds do they have any issues are they the same size and what is your personal thoughts on them . Tom Pierron
Felix Puga says
Hi Tom,
there are not issues with pure black shepherds. They have the same size, and they are difficult to be seem at night. That is why the former KGB used them.
Best regards.
Felix and JP
3054612828 Donna 7864023297 Felix
Upendra says
My Russian Shepherd is now 15 year + old n is still healthy n active.
RussianDog says
Congratulations! It’s just great!
Tom Pierron 2509999551 says
Hi I talked to you on the phone a couple of weeks ago from British Columbia Canada I am really interested in this type of shepherd.Any pictures and info would be appreciated I have had shepherds most of my life but have been heartbroken by hip problems and temperament issues quite a few times but I love the breed.I read that the Russian shepherd doesn’t have these problems and plus they are a larger and stronger breed.If this correct I would love to have some information on them.I live in the mountains have horses and do a lot of camping fishing and hunting and would like to find a tall strong healthy dog or dogs in my future that listen and are family oriented. Thankyou Tom Pierron
FELIX says
Hi there, I am a breeder of east european shepherd in United States (Miami Florida) I have three males and five females imported from RUSSIA and some borne in USA. Their pedegree are from champion parents. I am the only breeder in the United States with high quality east european shepherds.
We have puppies for sale now, prices are from $800 thru $1800.
Please browers thru my website and enjoy the beauty of this breed.
or east European shepherd at facebook
contact us by phone at 305-4612828 Donna or 786-4023297 Felix
Terrance says
Felix,
This is Terrance. I have been searching some sites and came across your post here on this page; have also searched the East European Shepherd link because I’m interested in researching this breed for purchase, however I don’t read Russian and the link in very confusing even when translated. I’m in Alabama. You stated that you’re a breeder?
admin says
Try to click on Felix’s name. You should get right to their site.
FELIX says
PLEASE CHECK MY WEBSITE OUT FOR INFORMATION ABOUT EAST EUROPEAN SHEPHERDS. OR FACEBOOK EAST EUROPEAN SHEPHERD, FELIX PUGA.
WE PUPPIES AVAILABLE FOR SALE NOW.
PRICES ARE FROM $1000 THRU $1800.
YOU CAN CONTACT US AT 305-4612828 IN MIAMI FLORIDA USA. ASK FOR DONNA OR AT 786-4023297 FELIX
MAY/25/2015
Екатерина says
Oh, I have a dog of this breed :)) His name is Ricky (Fred Voybor), he is very smart, obedient, perfect guard. I want to say that your article is quite correct, but something is wrong, you have written. East European Shepherd was born in Moscow, Red Star in the nursery. This breed is never called “the Belarusian Shepherd.”..
brian says
where can I buy an east european shepherd?
FELIX says
Hi Brian, I am a breeder of east european shepherd in United States (Miami Florida) I have three males and five females imported from RUSSIA and some borne in USA. Their pedegree are from champion parents. I am the only breeder in the United States with high quality east european shepherds.
We have puppies for sale now.
Please browers thru my website and enjoy the beauty of this breed.
Follow me at facebook east european shepherd or Felix Puga
marksdorcel says
I would like the men dog should be an huge system with hefty bone and huge go.colour should be with dark and full of tan.please information me and help so that I don't drop in the incorrect hands.
Felix Puga says
Hi, I am a breeder of east european shepherd in United States (Miami Florida) I have the male and two female imported from RUSSIA. There pedegree are from champion parents. I am the only breeder in the United States with high quality east european shepherds.
Please browers thru my website and enjoy the beauty of this breed.
turbold says
hi I have a russian shepherd dog he is die in 18 years old he is die in 2006 i buy russian shepherd dog in Ulaan-Ude
Rahul says
Hie… I am looking for oversized German SHEPHERD male pup. Anybody can help me. I am staying in Delhi. I am not interested in importing from outside lemme know
if anybody knows any thing in India.
Thanx Rahul
Rajiv Bhatia says
Hello Jelena,
i am Rajiv,l interested to buy east european shepherd, how can u help me
my mail id is rbjeet(Replace this parenthesis with the @ sign)gmail.com
Gene says
william lgardjr says:
10/25/2010 at 8:15 pm
could you please tell me if there are any breeders for the russian germenan shepard in the united states i would really like to have one perferebly a male and a female
Reply
I couldn't find one here, so I am going to bring it from Belarus.Let me know if you want one too
Ravi says
Hello admin,
Can i know the life expentency of East European Shepherd.
I own this breed, a male.
I purchased him from a dog breeder from Bangalore, India.
I love him. He is very friendly, playfull and obedient.
And best thing about him if someone else offers him meat and I say no then he wont even go close to the meat or trt to eat it.
and please do send a reply on my email id..
RAVI
India
admin says
Please read the article above.
Jelena says
Hi!
My name is Jelena, I'm a breeder of East European Shepherd dog. My nursery is located in Latvia (Europe).
In February there was coupling between best representatives in our dog nursery, between true and real samples of the Eastereuropean shepperd species. The puppies are attended in the end of april.
All my dogs are officially checked for health conditions and have no genetic desieases.
The puppies will be sold with an FCI pedigree (0 group).
The East European Shepperd is rather big and massive, and besides being an excellent guard dog, it is also a devoted friend and companion, a thinking dog, easy to train.
Welcome to our homepage.
With best regards,
Jelena
Valentina Kats says
Hi Jelena,
I am living in USA, but I am very interesting to by East Europian male puppy.Can you help me to have this dog?
Best regards, Valentina.
admin says
Hi Valentina,
The address provided by Jelena has probably changed, and is rejected by mail system.
Vishant Yadav says
Admin I visited websites you mentioned but did not find what I am looking for (Long coat East-European Shepherd). Thats why I asked you. If you know any please let me know.
Regard
Vishant Yadav
Jelena says
Dear Vishant Yadav,
Long coat East European Shepherds are defective by standarts of the breed, so you would not be able to find a nursery with Long coat EES, I am sure.
Brg,
Jelena
Vishant Yadav says
Hi,
I want to import both male and female puppies (obviously from different parents)of Russian German Shepherd. Could you please tell me any good breeder. Looking forward to your reply.
Regards
Vishant Yadav
New Delhi
India
admin says
Please view above.
prakash says
hello,
I am from kerala in India .i have been having dogs for the past 20 years which is to say that i know to take very good care of dogs. i am very impressed with russian german shepherd's size and character.i would like to import a male and a female from two different mothers. i would like the male dog should be an extra large body with heavy bones and massive head.color should be with black and rich in tan.please guide me and help so that i dont fall in the wrong hands. awaiting your response
regards
prakash
Nicole says
The only way you'll get one of these dogs is to get it imported – as far as I know. We got ours imported from Europe just a few months ago, and he was worth every dollar we paid for him. Just a note: if you're interested in these dogs getting ready for a high price tag. He's such a beauty though, he has a black and silver agouti colored plush coat. And he's a very- very big boy. He's very intelligent too. He's made such a great companion!
admin says
Thank you, Nicole. Could you please share your experience in more details and send us a picture of your puppy. We'll be glad to publish it in My dog & Me section for all our readers.
ninon says
bonjour, je recherche un berger allemand de russie. Je suis de belgique et je ne trouve pas de chien de ce type. pouvez vous m'indiquer ou je pourrai en trouver un? merci
admin says
Vous pouvez trouver un bien chiot en Russie ou en l'Est membres de EU (la Lettonie et les autres Etats baltique, la République tchèque, la Hongrie, la Pologne, etc)
Jorge says
I have one east european shp he is the best dog very smart and big I have a lab and the east shp its just smarter
cody says
nice dog
admin says
Please send us its picture and story.
sohrab says
i have a dog
and i don't know what is it
it is a dog or shepherd dog
how we know what is it?
please answer this question
admin says
Finding a good East European Shepherd pup in the US is quite a problem. The breed is rare here and not recognized by AKC. I’ve found only one ad: Contact KATE, LOS ANGELES, CA Phone: 323-3501074
Why not try importing both male and female puppies from Russia or Eastern Europe? It’s quite easy these days.
william lgardjr says
could you please tell me if there are any breeders for the russian germenan shepard in the united states i would really like to have one perferebly a male and a female