Maremma Sheepdog
The Maremma Sheepdog has a life expectancy of 13 years.
Origin
The Maremma Sheepdog’s origin can be traced back more than 2,000 years ago. Developed in Italy, the Maremma Sheepdog was used to guard flocks of sheep from wolves and other predators.
Size
The Maremma Sheepdog weighs 65 to 100 pounds and measures 24 to 29 inches.
Grooming Needs
The Maremma Sheepdog has a harsh coat that is long and white coat and mostly sheds with the change of seasons in the spring and fall. The Maremma Sheepdog is not a show dog and requires minimal grooming. If living outside, the Maremma Sheepdog can go a lifetime without any bathing or grooming, although the occasional brushing will help remove any debris from their coat.
If living in the home, the Maremma Sheepdog is fine with a weekly brushing and the occasional bath. Like all dogs, Maremma Sheepdogs should also have their teeth brushed, ears cleaned and nails trimmed as needed.
Character
The Maremma Sheepdog is a devoted guard dog with strong protective instincts.
Temperament
The Maremma Sheepdog is rarely thought of as a companion or pet and is most often used for guarding livestock and property. The Maremma Sheepdog takes the role of guardian quite seriously and thrives when given a job to perform. They are highly protective of their “pack” and can live well with other dogs and animals they know. However, outsiders – whether animal or human – are another story. Maremma Sheepdogs will not hesitate to protect their charges from any perceived threat. They will first bark and snarl to warn away any intruder and, if that doesn’t work, they will take more aggressive action.
If kept in the home with the family, the Maremma Sheepdog needs extensive socialization. The Maremma Sheepdog does well with their family and likes to stick close to them. They are quite affectionate with their loved ones and can be possessive of them. Maremma Sheepdogs have to be properly introduced to new people that come into the home.
Training Needs
The Maremma Sheepdog does not respond readily to training and prefers to act independently. Early obedience training is important for all dogs, but is especially important for the Maremma Sheepdog as they get more stubborn as they mature. As puppies, Maremma Sheepdogs are most responsive to training and do especially well with brief, upbeat sessions.
Respect is vital in the relationship between the Maremma Sheepdog and their owner. The Maremma Sheepdog must have an owner they can respect or they will tune out any training. This breed is therefore best suited to an experienced, confident leader who understands the mentality of a guard dog.
Activity Level
The Maremma Sheepdog needs a large, fenced area to move around freely and is not a breed designed for apartment living. When outside, Maremma Sheepdogs will exercise themselves as long as they have the space they need. They are energetic and should never be chained up or confined.
