Are you considering getting a new furry friend as a pet? If you are looking for a loyal and intelligent companion, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai breed dog might be a perfect fit for you. This breed is renowned for its exceptional guarding and herding abilities, as well as its affectionate and devoted nature. If you’re looking for a dog that is both a great protector and a loving companion, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai breed dog might be the perfect choice for you.
Breed Category: Working
Country of Origin: Italy
Average Size:60-70 cm
Average Weight:30-40 kg
Average Life Span: 10-12 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High
History and Origin
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai, also known as the Lessinia and Lagorai Shepherd, is a breed of dog that originated in the mountainous regions of Italy. This breed is known for its intelligence, loyalty, and protective nature, making it an excellent working dog. The history and origin of this breed can be traced back to the early 19th century when it was first developed by Italian shepherds.
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai was bred to be a working dog, specifically for herding and guarding livestock. The breed was developed by crossing various local breeds of dogs, including the Maremma Sheepdog, the Abruzzese Sheepdog, and the Bergamasco Shepherd. These dogs were bred for their strength, agility, and intelligence, which made them ideal for working in the rugged terrain of the Italian mountains.
The breed was first recognized by the Italian Kennel Club in 1955, and since then, it has become increasingly popular in Italy and other parts of Europe. The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is now considered a rare breed, with only a few hundred dogs registered each year. Despite its rarity, the breed is highly valued for its working abilities and its loyal and protective nature.
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a medium-sized dog, with a muscular build and a thick coat of fur. The breed is known for its intelligence and its ability to learn quickly, making it an excellent working dog. The breed is also known for its loyalty and protective nature, which makes it an excellent guard dog. The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a highly active breed, and it requires plenty of exercise and mental stimulation to stay healthy and happy.
The breed is also known for its adaptability, and it can thrive in a variety of environments. The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is well-suited to life in the mountains, where it can use its strength and agility to navigate the rugged terrain. However, the breed can also adapt to life in the city, as long as it receives plenty of exercise and mental stimulation.
In conclusion, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a rare and highly valued breed of dog that originated in the mountainous regions of Italy. The breed was
Size and Breed Category
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a large breed of dog that originated in the mountainous regions of Italy. They are classified as a working breed and are known for their exceptional herding and guarding abilities. These dogs have a muscular build and thick coat that provides insulation against the cold weather in their native region. In Australia, they are often shorn in summer. Their coat can be either short or long, and it comes in a variety of colours, including black, grey, and fawn. The breed is also known for its distinctive facial features, which include a broad head and a strong jaw.
In terms of size, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a large breed, with males typically weighing between 35 and 45 kilograms and standing between 60 and 70 centimetres tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 30 and 40 kilograms and standing between 55 and 65 centimetres tall. Despite their size, these dogs are known for their agility and athleticism, which makes them well-suited for their role as herding and guarding dogs. They are known for their loyalty, and they make excellent family pets for those who have the space and time to devote to their care and training.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of this breed is typically medium to long in length, with a thick undercoat and a coarser outer coat. The fur is designed to protect the dog from the harsh mountain climate in which it originated. The fur is also water-resistant, which allows the dog to swim in cold mountain streams without getting too wet. The fur can come in a variety of colours, including black, grey, and fawn. Some dogs may have white markings on their chest or feet. The fur is often described as being “shaggy” or “unkempt,” but this is a deliberate design to help the dog blend in with its surroundings and protect it from the elements.
The colour of the fur can vary depending on the season. In the winter, the fur may be darker and thicker to provide extra warmth, while in the summer, the fur may be lighter and thinner to help the dog stay cool. The fur may also change colour as the dog ages, with some dogs developing a more grey or white coat as they get older. The fur is an important part of the breed’s identity, and it is often used to distinguish the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai from other breeds. The fur requires regular grooming to keep it healthy and free from tangles, but it is a small price to pay for the beauty and functionality of this unique breed.
Temperament and Trainability
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is known for its strong temperament and high trainability. These dogs are highly intelligent and have a natural instinct to protect their owners and their territory. They are also very loyal and affectionate towards their family members, making them excellent companions.
When it comes to training, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a quick learner and responds well to positive reinforcement. They are eager to please their owners and are highly motivated by praise and treats. However, due to their strong-willed nature, it is important for their owners to establish themselves as the pack leader early on in the training process. With consistent training and socialization, these dogs can become well-behaved and obedient pets.
Known Health Conditions
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is known to be prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common health issues that affect this breed is hip dysplasia. This condition occurs when the hip joint does not develop properly, leading to pain and discomfort for the dog. It can also cause arthritis and mobility issues in severe cases. To prevent hip dysplasia, it is important to ensure that the dog’s diet is balanced and that they get enough exercise. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help to detect any signs of hip dysplasia early on.
Another health condition that is common in Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is eye problems. This breed is prone to developing cataracts, which can cause vision loss and blindness if left untreated. Other eye conditions that can affect this breed include progressive retinal atrophy and glaucoma. Regular eye exams are important for detecting these conditions early on, as treatment options are more effective when started early. It is also important to keep the dog’s eyes clean and free from debris to prevent infections and other eye problems.
Openness to Strangers
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is friendly-natured and often welcoming towards strangers. These dogs are highly sociable and enjoy the company of people, making them ideal pets for families with children. They are also known for their loyalty and protective instincts, which make them excellent guard dogs. Despite their protective nature, they are not aggressive towards strangers and are always eager to make new friends. Their friendly and outgoing personality makes them a popular choice for pet owners who are looking for a loyal and affectionate companion.
In addition to their friendly nature, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai are also highly intelligent and trainable. They are quick learners and respond well to positive reinforcement training methods. They are also highly adaptable and can thrive in a variety of environments, including apartments and small homes. However, they do require regular exercise and mental stimulation to keep them happy and healthy. Overall, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a breed of dog that is well-suited for families and individuals who are looking for a friendly, loyal, and intelligent companion.
Playfulness Level
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a highly energetic and playful breed of dog. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep their owners entertained for hours on end. These dogs are always on the go, and they love nothing more than to run, jump, and play with their owners. Whether it’s a game of fetch or a run through the park, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is always up for some fun.
Their playful nature makes them a great choice for families with children, as they are always eager to play and interact with their human companions. They are also highly intelligent and trainable, which makes them a great choice for those who are looking for a dog that can be trained to perform a variety of tasks. Whether you are looking for a loyal companion or a working dog, the Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is sure to bring a smile to your face with their playful antics and boundless energy.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs have a friendly and affectionate nature, making them a great choice as a pet for children. They are highly intelligent and easy to train, which means they can quickly learn how to behave around kids. These dogs are also very loyal and protective, which means they will always keep an eye on their young owners and make sure they are safe. Additionally, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs are energetic and playful, which means they will enjoy spending time with children and participating in various activities. Overall, these dogs are a great choice for families with children who are looking for a loyal and loving companion.
Exercise Needs
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs are highly active and require a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. These dogs are known for their high energy levels and love for outdoor activities. They are best suited for owners who can provide them with ample opportunities to run, play, and explore. A daily exercise routine that includes long walks, hikes, and runs is essential for these dogs. They also enjoy playing games such as fetch, frisbee, and agility training. Owners should ensure that their Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs receive enough exercise to prevent them from becoming bored or destructive.
In addition to physical exercise, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs also require mental stimulation. These dogs are highly intelligent and thrive on mental challenges. Owners can provide mental stimulation by engaging them in activities such as obedience training, puzzle games, and scent work. These activities not only keep the dogs mentally stimulated but also help to strengthen the bond between the dog and its owner. It is important to note that these dogs are not suitable for apartment living and require a large outdoor space to run and play. Owners should also ensure that their Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs are adequately socialized and trained to prevent any behavioural issues.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs have a reputation for being friendly towards other pets. They are known to be sociable and enjoy the company of other animals. However, as with any dog, it is important to introduce them to other pets slowly and carefully to ensure a positive relationship. With proper socialisation and training, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs can coexist peacefully with other pets in the household.
Housing Requirements
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs require a spacious living area that allows them to move around freely. A house with a large backyard or a farm with plenty of open space is ideal for these dogs. They need to be able to run and play to maintain their physical health and mental well-being. Additionally, they require a warm and comfortable shelter to protect them from harsh weather conditions. A well-insulated dog house with a comfortable bed is necessary to keep them warm during cold winters. These dogs also need access to clean water and food at all times.
In terms of exercise, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs require daily physical activity to stay healthy and happy. They are highly energetic and need to be taken for long walks or runs every day. They also enjoy playing games such as fetch and tug-of-war. These dogs are intelligent and require mental stimulation as well. Training sessions and interactive toys can help keep their minds active and prevent boredom. It is important to note that these dogs are protective of their family and territory, so early socialization and training are crucial to prevent aggressive behaviour. Overall, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai dogs require a spacious and stimulating environment to thrive.
Summary
The Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is a dog that requires an experienced owner who can provide them with plenty of exercise and mental stimulation. They are not suitable for first-time dog owners or those who cannot commit to their high energy levels.
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai Dog FAQS
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai are intelligent dogs but can be stubborn, so consistent and patient training is necessary.
Yes, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai are protective of their family and make excellent guard dogs.
Yes, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai are known to be good with children and make great family pets.
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai are generally healthy dogs, but they can be prone to hip dysplasia and eye problems.
Yes, Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai shed moderately throughout the year and heavily during shedding season.
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai have a lifespan of 10-12 years on average.
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai are active dogs and require at least 1-2 hours of exercise daily.
Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai have a thick double coat and should be brushed at least once a week. They only need to be bathed when necessary.
A Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai can grow up to 65-75 cm in height.
The average weight of a Pastore della Lessinia e del Lagorai is between 30-40 kg.
Helena is aSenior Associate Veterinarian at Kleintierpraxis Wandsbek and an avid dog breed author.