Maremma Sheepdog

 The Maremma Sheepdog is a majestic white dog, of a large size and a rustic appearance. They are strong, active, and for their size, very lithe. They have triangular drop ears and jet black lips, nose and eyes. They are quite furry, but not fluffy or shaggy. They have a long tail that almost touches the ground. The Maremma Sheepdog can be rather independent, especially in work. They are a working dog and need a job to keep them occupied. Their function has been to guard the flock and property of the shepherd for millennia, even in situations where man is not present. Maremma Sheepdogs are devoted to their master but treat them as an equal and a friend. They are affectionate with people they know, but if you mistreat the Maremma they will always remember it. The Maremma Sheepdog does not like to be dominated, and would not do well in an obedience course. Maremmas are so dedicated to their flock of sheep that one was said to have guarded sheep all his life on a particular farm. When the family got rid of their sheep and replaced them with beans in the same field, the Maremma was said to have taken over guardianship of the beans! Always treat a Maremma fairly and they will turn into an indispensable guardian angel for your stock, your farm and your family.

 Maremma Sheepdogs are courageous, intelligent, sturdy and proud. They are independent and treat their owners as friends that are equal rather than the typical "human owns dog" relationship. They will be stubborn if you do not treat them with the same respect. They re protective and good with children, so protective that they may misinterpret rough play from other children. They also get along well with other pets, protective and good. They will guard other pets. They are independent, affectionate, and have a working mentality.

 Very well furnished. Hair is long and rather harsh. A slight waviness is tolerated but only in certain limits. Maremma Sheepdogs are exceptionally clean in their habits. Brushing once a week and dry shampoo when necessary. Baths would damage the undercoat. 

 Very healthy, although Maremmas may suffer from hip dysplasia and eye disease. 

 Puppies are large and active and their growth rate is fast. Free running will be especially beneficial for muscle development. 

 House training is easy for the Maremma Sheepdog. Social and obedience training is a necessity with a dog of this size and it should be start at an early age. Maremma Sheepdogs must be heavily socialized before the age of 6 months and must get used to meeting strangers. A 10 months puppy may weight 100 pounds! By the first month, working puppy dogs should get in touch with some subjects of the flock to develop their senses of smell. They must be involved in working with the stock before the sixth month.