Caucasian Ovcharka Society of America 

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HEAD & NECK STRUCTURE


CRANIAL REGION

The head is large, massive and broad in cheekbones.  When viewed from above, the head looks like a wedge with a broad base.

 

SKULL

Massive and broad.  Forehead is almost flat, with a marked but not deep furrow.  Superciliary ridges are developed, but not protruding.  Occipital bone inconspicuous. 


STOP

Noticeable but not clearly marked. 


NOSE

Black, large with correct open nostrils, not proceeding the muzzle outline. A black nose in solid, spotted or piebald colors is desirable but not obligatory (but genetic blue or liverbrown nose is not allowed).


MUZZLE

Broad and deep, gradually tapering towards the nose with strong jaws and chin; great depth and is well filled under the eyes.  The bridge of the nose is broad.  The upper lines of the muzzle and skull run parallel.


LIPS

Thick, close-fitting and well pigmented.


JAW & TEETH

Teeth should be healthy, white and strong.  Incisors are close to each other and in one line. Complete scissor or pincer bite (42 teeth).  Injured, broken or knocked out incisors or canines which do not affect the use of the bite is of no consequence, neither is absence of PM1s.


CHEEKS

Well developed and emphasized by well pronounced chewing muscles.


EYES

Moderate size, oval in shape, not too deep set, wide and obliquely placed. The color is different shades of brown from dark to hazelnut.  Eyelids are black, dry and close-fitting.  Expression is serious, attentive and inquisitive.


EARS

Moderate size, thick, triangular in shape, naturally pendant, high

and wide set.  Inner part of ear is close lying to the cheeks.  Ears are traditionally cropped in country of origin.  Natural ears are of equal value.


NECK

Medium length, powerful, low set and rounded in the cross section.

Crest is pronounced especially in males.