Will a Maremma Sheepdog Make a Good Pet

The scenic Italian Alps is a rich pasture for grazing livestock. Livestock industry on the Italian Alps is structured by the season as the flock would have to be moved to higher pasture land from June till October and moved back again to graze on the Maremma plains until they have to be moved again to higher pasture. A dependable breed of protection and herding dog will be a very important asset of the shepherd. The Maremma Sheepdog is the ultimate protector of livestock and the fierce enemy of wolves and other predators of sheep, cattle and goats.

The Maremma Sheepdog is a large livestock guardian noted to have a profusely abundant white double coats. The noble bear-like head and the thickly ruffed neck is the most distinct feature of this breed. The thick white or creamy coat that is both water repellent and weatherproof enables the dog to stay with the flock it is guarding in any kind of weather.

Maremma Sheepdogs are independent thinkers. Even without the intervention of the shepherd, this dog would instantly resolve a situation that can be potentially dangerous to the stock it is protecting. This independent nature as well as the bond that the dog forms with the livestock can be a problem. Some Maremma Sheepdog owners find it difficult to restrain the dog when it is time to sell stock especially if the dog has not undergone obedience training. Oftentimes, the Maremma Sheepdog has to be kenneled or chained as it would be very difficult to restrain a dog that would not be stopped from "protecting" the animals under its care.

A Maremma Sheepdog is a dependable livestock guardian. With a well honed guarding instinct, the dog would be happiest if allowed to work with its master in protecting the flock. However, more and more Maremma Sheepdogs were taken away from their home turf and utilized in other capacities.

Utilized as home companions, Maremma Sheepdogs are now protecting the home and the human family. From being a flock guard that roams wide open spaces, a Maremma Sheepdog has adapted to the life of an indoor dog. Being a breed that was developed to protect livestock, a Maremma Sheepdog is expected to have a mind of its own, to be stubborn and to be wary of people however, with the early socialization and obedience training conducted by a strong willed and authoritative owner, this dogs can evolve into an outstanding family pet that would not only protect the family but also provide affectionate companionship.