Their faithfulness, protectiveness, and ferocity when called upon to defend is legendary. Type varies geographically throughout the mountain range, and also varies according to the purpose for which the dogs were utilized. Generally, dogs of the transcaucasus regions are more massively built, while those found in the steppe regions have a somewhat rangier build, are leggier, and are often short-coated.
Modern breeding conforms to a single standard.
Suspicion and aggressiveness toward strangers is characteristic. Immediate and indiscriminate trustfulness of strangers while functioning as a guard. Characteristic aggressiveness should be tempered by careful socialization and training without suppressing natural instincts to guard and protect. Behavior in the show ring should be controlled, willing and adaptable. Only the handler shall show mouth.