Maremma Sheepdog

The Maremma and Abruzzese Sheepdog is a livestock guardian from central Italy. It accompanied shepherds on seasonal migrations between the Abruzzo mountains and the Maremma plains.

Its white coat helped it blend in with the sheep and be told apart from wolves.

Calm, thoughtful and independent, the Maremma is not an obedience dog: it makes its own decisions to protect its flock or family. It is wary of strangers and barks at night to deter intruders.

It needs an experienced, patient owner and early socialisation.

This is a hardy breed. Hip dysplasia and bloat can occur, as in other large dogs.

Regular veterinary follow-up is recommended.

It often eats less than you would expect for its size. Good-quality large-breed food in two meals suits it.

Puppies should grow slowly.

It does not need intense exercise, but a large area to watch over and daily walks.

Provide solid fencing: it likes to patrol.

Its white coat reflects some of the sun. It is a natural flock guardian, ideal in rural areas, but unsuited to apartment life and city noise.

Its thick white coat is fairly self-cleaning; weekly brushing is enough, more during the moult.

Do not shave it: the coat insulates it from the sun.