East European Shepherd

The history of the East European Shepherd is inextricably linked with the history of the Soviet Union. Work on creating the breed began in the 1930s at the “Red Star” central service dog kennel. The main goal was to develop a dog that would surpass existing breeds in working qualities and endurance, particularly the German Shepherd. A dog was needed that could work in the harsh climatic conditions of the USSR – from the arctic colds to the hot deserts of Central Asia.

The foundation was based on German Shepherd representatives, which were purposefully crossbred with other breeds (the exact list of breeds is still a matter of debate, but it is believed that it may have included Laikas and some local breeds). Selection was carried out according to strict criteria: larger, more massive, and more resilient individuals with a strong nervous system were chosen. The EES was intended to be a universal soldier: to guard borders, work in convoy services, participate in search operations, and serve in the army. During the Second World War, these dogs proved to be true heroes: they served as medics, messengers, sappers, and saboteurs.

The first standard, which established the unique breed type of the EES, was approved in 1964. This standard clearly distinguished the East European Shepherd from its German ancestor, emphasising its larger size, straight backline, and different type of movement. Today, the breed is recognised by the International Union of Kennel Clubs (UCI) and many national canine organisations in the countries of the former USSR. However, the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) has not yet recognised the EES as a separate breed, viewing it as a variation of the German Shepherd, which does not prevent the breed from having millions of fans worldwide.

The East European Shepherd is a large, harmoniously built dog that gives an impression of strength and confidence. Its appearance is the epitome of functionality and nobility. The build is slightly elongated, with a strong bone structure and well-defined, lean muscles.

1. Head: Wedge-shaped, proportional to the body, and quite massive. The forehead is flat, with a moderately defined stop. The muzzle is approximately equal in length to the cranial part.
2. Eyes: Oval-shaped, medium-sized, set obliquely. The colour ranges from dark brown to almost black. The gaze is intelligent, attentive, and confident.
3. Ears: Medium-sized, erect, set high, and shaped like an isosceles triangle. In puppies, the ears may become erect by 4-5 months of age.
4. Body: The back is straight, broad, and strong. The withers are well-developed, 1-2 cm higher than the croup. The loin is short and muscular. The croup is rounded, long, and slightly sloping.
5. Tail: Sabre-shaped, carried down in a calm state, reaching the hock joints. When excited, it rises to the level of the backline.
6. Coat: Thick, coarse, straight, with a well-developed undercoat. This “coat” provides reliable protection against any weather.

The coat colour can vary, but the classic colours are considered to be: black, saddle (with a black “cape” on the back and sides over a lighter background), black and tan, and sable grey. The background can range from light grey to a rich fawn. A key feature is a dark mask on the muzzle.

Character is one of the strongest traits of this breed. The EES is a dog with high intelligence and a balanced psyche. It is human-oriented, boundlessly devoted to its owner and family. This shepherd forms a very strong bond with its owner and is ready to follow them to the ends of the earth. It is important to understand that the EES is a one-person dog, although it will love and protect all family members.

The behaviour of the EES is always confident and calm. It is not prone to unprovoked aggression or barking. Its reaction to a threat is instantaneous but controlled. It is a natural guardian who clearly distinguishes between “friend” and “foe” and is always ready to protect its territory and family. At the same time, with family members, it is an affectionate and patient dog. The EES gets along wonderfully with children, especially if it grows up with them, acting as a caring nanny and playmate. It is calm with other animals in the home, provided there has been proper socialisation, although it may show dominance towards other dogs.

Before getting such a serious dog, it is worth weighing all the pros and cons. We have prepared a table to help you make the right decision.

The East European Shepherd, as a breed that has undergone rigorous selection, has a fairly robust health and a strong immune system. However, like all large breeds, it is prone to certain diseases. The most important thing is prevention and attentive care for your pet’s well-being.

• Hip and elbow dysplasia: This is the most common problem in large dogs. It is very important to choose a puppy from parents who have been tested for dysplasia. Prevention includes weight control, a balanced diet (especially during the growth period), and moderate exercise until 1.5-2 years of age.
• Gastric Dilatation-Volvulus (Bloat): A dangerous condition that requires immediate surgical intervention. To avoid this, feed your dog smaller portions 2-3 times a day and do not allow vigorous play immediately after eating.
• Arthritis and arthrosis: Can develop in old age due to stress on the joints. Maintaining an optimal weight and using chondroprotectors will help keep the joints healthy.
• Allergies: May occur in response to certain food components or environmental factors.

Regular visits to the vet, timely vaccinations, and parasite treatments are the foundation of a long and healthy life for your shepherd. Some breeds, like the Spanish Water Dog, are known for their robust health, but even they need regular care.

Caring for an EES is not complicated, but it does require consistency. The main focus should be on its coat, physical exercise, and hygiene.

Coat care: The thick coat of an EES requires regular brushing, especially during the seasonal moult in spring and autumn. Use a deshedding tool or a special brush to remove dead undercoat. This will not only improve the dog’s appearance but also prevent matting and skin irritation. The animal should be bathed infrequently, 1-2 times a year or as needed, using special dog shampoos.

Hygiene: Regularly inspect the ears for dirt and inflammation. Clean them with a cotton pad soaked in a special lotion. The teeth also require attention – clean them with a special toothbrush and paste for dogs or give dental treats. The claws usually wear down on their own with sufficient exercise on hard surfaces, but if this does not happen, they need to be trimmed with a nail clipper.

Training an EES is a mandatory and very important process. Upbringing and socialisation must begin from the first days of the puppy’s arrival in your home. This is a serious service dog, and without proper training, it can become uncontrollable. The owner must immediately establish themselves as a calm, confident, and consistent leader.

EES are very intelligent and quickly grasp new information. The positive reinforcement method works best for them. They are eager to please their owner, so praise and treats work much better than shouting and punishment. Early socialisation is key: introduce the puppy to different people, animals, sounds, and situations. This will help raise a confident and well-adjusted dog.

The breed is ideal for various types of canine sports: protection work, general obedience, and search and rescue services. These activities will help to channel the dog’s energy and intelligence in the right direction. History knows many examples of heroism from these dogs, such as the shepherd Elga, who saved many lives in Chechnya by finding mines. This highlights their outstanding working qualities, which, by the way, are also valued in breeds like the Caucasian Shepherd Dog.

Proper nutrition is the key to the health and longevity of an EES. This large and active dog needs a high-quality, balanced diet. There are two main approaches to feeding: ready-made dry foods and a natural diet.

Dry foods: This is a convenient and balanced option. Choose premium or super-premium class foods for large breeds. They contain an optimal ratio of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as essential vitamins and minerals, including chondroprotectors to support the joints.

Natural diet: This option requires more time and knowledge. The basis of the diet (about 50-60%) should be lean meat and offal. River fish should not be given due to the risk of parasite infection, and sea fish only cooked and boneless. The diet should also include:

• Grains: Buckwheat, rice, oatmeal.
• Vegetables: Carrots, pumpkin, courgettes, broccoli.
• Fermented dairy products: Low-fat kefir, yoghurt, cottage cheese.
• Eggs: 1-2 times a week.

It is strictly forbidden to give the dog tubular bones, sweets, smoked foods, spicy foods, or milk. Always ensure access to fresh drinking water.

• Despite their external similarity, the EES and the German Shepherd have significant differences not only in appearance (a straight back in the EES versus a sloping one in the “German”) but also in character. The EES is calmer and less choleric.
• These dogs are true “actors”. They can be seen in many famous films.
• EES have a unique ability to adapt to any conditions, making them one of the most versatile service breeds in the world.
• The breed has very expressive facial expressions. An experienced owner will always understand their dog’s mood from its gaze and the position of its ears.

Is the East European Shepherd suitable for living in a flat?
This is highly undesirable. The EES is a large and active dog that needs space. The best option for it would be a private house with a large yard where it can move freely.

How much physical exercise does an EES need?
A lot. A minimum of 2 hours of active walks per day. This is not just walking on a lead, but running, playing, and training sessions. Without sufficient exercise, the dog may become bored and destructive.

Can an EES be left alone for long periods?
They do not tolerate loneliness well. A strong attachment to the owner can lead to destructive behaviour if the dog is left alone all day. This breed should not be chosen by very busy people.

Do they bark a lot?
No, EES are not prone to barking without reason. They only give voice when there is a real need, for example, to warn of approaching strangers. Many breeds, such as the Lagotto Romagnolo, are much more “talkative”.

Is it difficult to find a purebred EES puppy?
Yes, it can be difficult. Since the breed is not recognised by the FCI, there are many mixed-breeds and “look-alike” dogs. It is very important to contact reputable breeders who specialise in this breed and can provide all the necessary documents and health tests of the parents.