DESCRIPTION
The Maremma Sheepdog is a rare working breed originating in Central Italy. There, in the High Appenines and plains of the Abruzzi region, the Maremma has been bred for some two thousand years. His sole function during this time was to guard the flocks and property of the shepherd; first from wolves and bears still to be found there, and, latterly, from thieves and bands of stray dogs.
Shepherds frequently leave their Maremmas in sole charge of their flocks while they attended to business elsewhere. Consequently, over the centuries, the dog developed a strong guarding instinct and a responsibility for taking decisions. While still maintaining a strong sense of loyalty to the shepherd, the Maremma's primary allegiance was to the flocks - and he would never desert whatever had been entrusted to his care. These instincts remain with the breed, as we know it in Britain today.
HISTORY
It is believed that the Maremma Sheepdog is an ancient breed. The Roman agronomist Varro mentions a breed of white dogs in his writings as early as 100 BC. Like most European Molossian types, this breed’s roots can be traced to the shepherd dogs of central Asia that arrived in Western Europe with the Mongols. Until 1950/1960, the Maremma Sheepdog (short-haired) was distinguished from the longer-haired Abruzzes Sheepdog. It was determined that this distinction had been made only because of the fact that this dog worked from June to October in the Abruzzes and from October to June in the region of Maremma. Approximately twenty-five years ago, Prof. G. Solaro wrote one standard for the breed and the names were joined.
TEMPERAMENT
The Maremma is a loyal and devoted guard who sees his main function in life as being the protector of his master and his master's property. He is constantly aware of this responsibility and will see a threat in any strange object or being.
It is unusual for the Maremma to wander, for he prefers to stand or lie at the property boundary where he will warn strangers away with his bark. He will not attack without provocation, but trespassing is not taken lightly and he is very wary of strangers. He is, nonetheless, affectionate to his owners although the male is, at times, ashamed to admit that he has a need for any physical reinforcement of the bond that exists between him and his master. Old friends are accepted, but the Maremma will usually remain on duty during their presence. Strangers are not welcome and the dog should be under control when irregular callers are admitted. A 'formal introduction' - best made when the caller has been admitted and is seated - usually suffices to satisfy the dog that there is no danger. But do remember that he makes his own judgements and may suspect danger when you see none.
Breeds
Here you can get dog collars
When you need dog training harnesses
|
