Maremma Sheepdog - Dog Breed Profile

Author: Dooziedog.com

Key Facts:

Size: Large

Height: 60 - 73 cm (23.5 - 28.5 inches)

Weight: 30 - 40 kg (66 - 99 lb)

Life Span: 13 years

Grooming: Medium

Exercise: Demanding

Feeding: Medium

Temperament: Lively & active

Country of Origin: Italy

AKC Group: Not registered

Other Names: Maremma, Pastore Abruzzese, Cane da Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese

Temperament:

The Maremma Sheepdog is intelligent, independent, courageous and protective. Maremma Sheepdogs are tough, brave and determined and make excellent guard dogs. They are truly loyal and protective of their families and are affectionate without being needy. Maremma Sheepdogs tend to be patient with children and get along with other pets and dogs. This breed is somewhat wary of strangers with their natural guarding instincts. Maremma Sheepdogs are not the type to follow their handlers every command, unless they decide it is necessary.

Grooming:

The Maremma Sheepdog needs a moderate amount of grooming to keep the coat looking healthy. Regular brushing with a comb and brush is necessary, especially when the coat is moulting.

Exercise:

This breed needs plenty of space for its physical and mental needs. When Maremma's have enough freedom and space they are quiet in the house. They enjoy long walks along different routes and will not be satisfied with repetitive walks around the block.

History:

The Maremma Sheepdog is similar to the Pyrenean Mountain Dog and it is presumed that they share the same heritage. It was in Italy where the breed evolved and it is believed that they descended from the early Asian guard dogs including the Abruzzese and the Maremmana.

Physical Characteristics:

General Appearance: Alert, majestic and strong.

Color: All white. Shadings of fawn or ivory are permitted.

Coat: The outercoat is harsh, wiry and long-haired. The undercoat is dense and close. The hair is shorter on the muzzle, skull, ears, feet and the front of the legs.

Tail: Set low, curved tip and may be carried above the level of the back when alert.

Ears: Set high, relatively small, V-shaped and hanging.

Body: The body is slightly longer than the shoulder height. The shoulders are sloping and the withers are set slightly higher than the back.

Additional Comments:

* The Maremma Sheepdog is steadily increasing in numbers and its temperament has gradually changed over time from the initial sharpness that used to be expected from them. They are now fairly trainable and intelligent dogs.

About the author: This article provided courtesy of http://www.dooziedog.com/dog_breeds/maremma_sheepdog/