This breed's strong suit is hunting wolves, bears and tigers. Usually in packs of 4, these mastiffs have the ability to overpower and kill a tiger, after the faster Wolfhounds chase it down. Strong-boned, broad-chested and with a large head and powerful neck, the Surgutskaya Ovcharka is a rugged and impressive working dog. The harsh and thick coat is weatherproof and fairly long.

The colossal Surgut Mastiff comes in pure white, bicolour, tricolour and various shades of wolf gray, similar to Huskies and Malamutes in colour. The average height is claimed to be around 37 inches, but the majority of modern dogs rarely exceed the height of 33 inches at the withers.