The South Russian Shepherd Dog is a dog of above average size and robust constitution, with a thick, dense, double coat. The breed is lean, but with massive bone structure and strongly developed musculature. Secondary sex characteristics are strongly marked, with the males being stronger, more massive and more courageous than the females.

Fierce, distrustful of strangers, and dominant in character, the South Russian Shepherd Dog is capable of adjusting to a wide variety of climatic conditions and temperatures.