Georgian Shepherd
Also known as Georgian Mountain Dog · Nagazi · Qartuli Nagazi
Georgia, Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Size
- Giant
- Height
- 60–75 cm
- Weight
- 45–70 kg
- Life expectancy
- 10–12 yrs
- Protective
- Calm
- Courageous
- Independent
Heights and weights are typical adult ranges; individual dogs vary.
The Georgian Shepherd, or Nagazi, is a large, heavily boned livestock guardian from the Georgian Caucasus. There are short-haired 'lion' and longer-haired 'bear' types, and a national standard was adopted in 2000. It is related to other Caucasian guardian dogs and is becoming better known outside Georgia, though still uncommon.
Size
- Size
- Giant
- Height at shoulder
- 60–75 cm
- Adult weight
- 45–70 kg
Typical adult ranges. Males are often at the top of the range and females at the bottom. Bigger breeds keep filling out until 18–24 months.
Lifespan
10–12 years
Most Georgian Shepherds live 10–12 years. Like other giant dogs, they're usually considered senior from about 6, when twice-yearly vet checks help catch problems early. Keeping them lean is one of the most effective things you can do for a long life. How old is that in human years?
Temperament
It is calm and steady most of the time but reacts quickly and decisively to any threat. It is deeply protective of its family, distrustful of strangers and can be dominant with other dogs, though it is often gentle with children it knows.
- Protective
- Calm
- Courageous
- Independent
Food
For a typical 57.5 kg adult- Energy
- ≈ 2,340 kcal
- a day, neutered adult
- Water
- 2.3 L–3.5 L
- a day, from all sources
- Most adults do well on two measured meals a day rather than one large one.
- Bloat is a risk in this breed: split food into smaller meals, avoid vigorous exercise for an hour either side of eating, and know the signs.
- Puppies of large breeds need a diet made for large-breed growth, so they grow steadily rather than fast.
- Choose a complete food for their life stage, and ask your vet before changing diet if they have a health condition.
Starting points only — age, activity and the food itself change the numbers. Work out portions for your dog · Foods to avoid
Exercise
60–90 min a dayIt needs moderate daily exercise and, above all, space to patrol. It is not suited to small homes or busy urban settings.
Grooming & shedding
The thick double coat needs weekly brushing and much more during seasonal moults.
Health
This is a breed for experienced owners with secure property. Start socialisation early and keep training patient and consistent. Ear cropping is traditional in Georgia but is illegal in the UK and many other countries. Little breed-specific health data exists.
The breed can be prone to
- Little breed-specific health data published
- Hip and elbow dysplasia (general risk in giant breeds)
- Bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus)
Health tests to ask a breeder about
- Hip and elbow scoring
Not every Georgian Shepherd is affected, and this isn't a diagnosis. See common conditions and the symptom checker.
History
Georgian shepherds developed these dogs over many generations to protect flocks from wolves and bears and to guard homes. Numbers fell sharply as interest in breeding declined, and the breed came close to disappearing. The Cynological Federation of Georgia adopted a unified standard in 2000, and enthusiasts have since worked to revive it.
- Country of origin
- Georgia
- Type
- Mastiffs and guardian dogs
- Recognition
- Recognised by the Cynological Federation of Georgia; not recognised by the FCI, AKC or The Kennel Club
Is a Georgian Shepherd right for you?
Could suit
- Owners who can manage a good walk or two each day
- People who'd rather not spend much time grooming
Think twice if
- This is your first dog — an independent breed can be a challenge to train
- Space, food and vet costs are a concern — giant breeds need more of all three
Cost to keep
Highest than average- Food, insurance and medicines cost more for a big dog
- Little or no professional grooming needed
- A 10–12 year commitment
- Budget for breed-related health checks or insurance
A relative guide, not a price — costs vary a lot by country, insurer and lifestyle.
Not sure? Try the breed finder.
Georgian Shepherd FAQ
How big does a Georgian Shepherd get?
Adult Georgian Shepherds typically stand about 60–75 cm at the shoulder and weigh around 45–70 kg. Individuals vary, and males are often larger than females.
How long do Georgian Shepherds live?
Typically 10–12 years. Keeping them lean, active and up to date with vet checks gives the best chance of a long, healthy life.
How much exercise does a Georgian Shepherd need?
As a guide, around 60–90 minutes a day, split between walks, play and sniffing time. Puppies and older dogs need shorter, gentler sessions.
How much grooming does a Georgian Shepherd need?
A brush once a week. Check ears, teeth and nails as part of the routine.
Are Georgian Shepherds easy to train?
Often independent-minded, so training needs patience, consistency and high-value rewards.
Do Georgian Shepherds shed?
Quite a lot. Regular brushing keeps loose hair under control — expect more around spring and autumn.
Are Georgian Shepherds good with children?
Many get on well with children. Always supervise young children with any dog, and teach them to give the dog space.
Can a Georgian Shepherd live in a flat?
It's usually a challenge — as long as they get enough daily exercise and time outdoors.
What health problems do Georgian Shepherds have?
The breed can be prone to little breed-specific health data published, hip and elbow dysplasia (general risk in giant breeds), bloat (gastric dilatation-volvulus). Not every Georgian Shepherd is affected — ask a breeder about health testing, and your vet about what to watch for.
Written by the Petopedia editorial team to our editorial standards. General guidance, not veterinary advice.