Maremma Sheepdog

Not only is the Maremma Sheepdog an ancient Italian breed that has been protecting its native flock for thousands of years, but it remains one of the few breeds employed in this job even today. Though uncommon to come across outside a farm, owning such a dog should not be taken lightly as they can develop defensive aggression towards strangers if removed from their natural environment. This aloof and independent canine must have strong leadership and stability in order to safely exist within our homes; otherwise it’s best left doing what it was born to do – guard!

Descriptions of the large white sheepdog native to Italy were first written by Roman scholars in 100BC. This breed has been around since at least the fourteenth century and appears largely unchanged today. Though its exact history is uncertain, it likely shares ancestry with the Pyrenean Mountain Dog. Mostly found in Tuscany’s Abruzzo and Maremma regions, this canine served shepherds by safeguarding livestock from theft or wolf attacks.

Maremmas are bred to protect and guard livestock, distinguishing themselves from herding dogs. These strong-willed canines work in packs of three or four individuals, forming a bond with the animals they stand vigil over since puppyhood. But their courageous reputation as “wolf-slayers” is well deserved: Maremma show no fear when faced with perilous predators like wolves! They serve first and foremost as deterrents; however, should any threat arise, those loyal guardians will not back down.

The Maremma Sheepdog’s luxurious coat is characterized by its white color, which may vary with tinges of yellow, peach or orange. This thick and coarse fur has a dense undercoat that protects against debris while shedding twice a year. To ensure their coats remain healthy and to control the excess shedding these dogs are known for, regular brushing is recommended.

The Maremma Sheepdog Club of America states that the breed should not be treated as a pet due to its 2000 years of adaptation and expertise in working. Despite its intelligence, loyalty, and dependability for work-related tasks, it is difficult to adjust this canine companion into a home environment since it is naturally on guard at all times.

With its specific behavioral characteristics, obedience training is a must for such an enormous breed. It should be initiated at the puppy stage; some shepherds even place their Maremmas amidst their sheep as soon as they are eight weeks old! This period of time is perfect to start instilling basic etiquette in your pup.