The East-European Shepherd dog is also known as Russian Shepherd, Owczarek Wschodnioeuropejski and Vostochnoevropejskaya Ovcharka (VEO). Primary purpose of developing this breed was to create a dog for military use. It is a soviet dog variation of the German Shepherd but it is heavier and larger dog. This breed was created by crossing German Shepherd dogs with local Russian breeds in 1930.
It is a large dog that stands between 26-30 inches and weighs between 66-132 lbs. It is larger than an average dog with harmonious built, strong, dry and well-defined muscles, sturdy bone structure and well-balanced character with a confident demeanor. It has a massive and wedge shaped head with long, erect ears and dark oval shaped eyes. Nose is large and black. Back is strong, broad and long with short, wide, well-muscled loin. The chest is moderately wide with tucked-up belly. The dog has medium length dense coat with sufficient undercoat. Usual coat colours include black, black and tan, black and red, brown, gray and red, sable, sometimes with dark facial mask.
Though very popular as watch and guard dog in Russia, this dog is still relatively unknown outside its country of origin and is considered a rare breed in the outside world.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC however it is recognized by CKC, DRA and RKF.