Are you considering getting a Šarplaninac breed dog as a pet? If so, you’re in for a treat! These majestic and loyal dogs are known for their fierce protective instincts, making them excellent guard dogs. However, they also make great family pets and are known for their gentle and affectionate nature with their owners. Before you make the decision to bring a Šarplaninac into your home, it’s important to learn more about the breed’s characteristics, needs, and temperament to ensure that they are a good fit for your lifestyle and family.
Breed Category: Working
Country of Origin: Serbia
Average Size:60-80 cm
Average Weight:35-45 kg
Average Life Span: 11-13 years
Grooming Requirements: Moderate
Exercise Requirements:High
History and Origin
The Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog or Illyrian Shepherd Dog, is a large breed of dog that originated in the Šar Mountains of Kosovo, Macedonia, and Albania. These dogs were bred to protect livestock from predators such as wolves and bears, and their name comes from the Šar Mountains where they were first developed.
The Šarplaninac is an ancient breed, with evidence of their existence dating back to the 4th century BC. They were used by the Illyrians, an ancient people who lived in the Balkans, as well as by the Romans and the Ottomans. The breed was recognized by the Fédération Cynologique Internationale (FCI) in 1939, and by the American Kennel Club (AKC) in 2019.
The Šarplaninac is a large, muscular dog with a thick coat that can be either short or long. They are typically black, white, or gray, and have a distinctive black mask on their face. They are known for their loyalty and protective nature, and are often used as guard dogs. They are also used as search and rescue dogs, and as therapy dogs.
The Šarplaninac is a breed that has been shaped by its environment. The harsh conditions of the Šar Mountains have made these dogs tough and resilient, and they are able to withstand extreme temperatures and difficult terrain. They are also highly intelligent and independent, which makes them difficult to train. However, with proper socialization and training, they can be loyal and obedient companions.
The Šarplaninac has a rich cultural history, and is considered a national symbol in Kosovo and Macedonia. They have been featured in literature, art, and music, and are an important part of the cultural heritage of the Balkans. In Kosovo, there is a monument dedicated to the Šarplaninac, and in Macedonia, there is a national park named after the breed.
In recent years, the Šarplaninac has become more popular outside of its native region. They are now found in countries such as the United States, Canada, and Australia, where they are often used as working dogs on farms and ranches. However, they are still a relatively rare breed, and
Size and Breed Category
The Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a large breed of dog that originated in the Balkans. They are a muscular and powerful breed, with a broad head and a thick, dense coat that is usually white or gray in color. The breed is known for its strength and endurance, and is often used as a working dog in its native region. They are also known for their loyalty and protective nature, making them excellent guard dogs.
In terms of size, the Šarplaninac is a large breed, with males typically weighing between 80-100 pounds and standing 24-28 inches tall at the shoulder. Females are slightly smaller, weighing between 70-90 pounds and standing 22-26 inches tall. They are classified as a working breed by the Kennel Club, and are known for their ability to work in harsh environments and difficult terrain. Despite their size and strength, they are also known for their gentle nature with their families, making them a popular choice as a family pet in their native region and beyond.
Fur Length and Colour
The fur of the Šarplaninac is typically long and thick, providing excellent protection against the harsh mountain climate of its native region. The fur is also quite coarse, which helps to repel dirt and debris. The length of the fur can vary slightly depending on the individual dog, but it generally ranges from 5-10 centimeters. The fur is also quite dense, which gives the dog a bulky appearance. The undercoat is particularly thick, which helps to insulate the dog against the cold. The fur of the Šarplaninac is typically a solid color, with shades ranging from white to black. Some dogs may have small patches of a different color, but this is relatively rare. The most common colors are shades of gray, ranging from light silver to dark charcoal. The fur may also have a slight reddish tint in some dogs. Overall, the fur of the Šarplaninac is an important part of its physical characteristics, providing both protection and insulation in its mountainous environment.
The color of the Šarplaninac’s fur is an important aspect of its appearance. The breed is known for its solid-colored coat, which can range from light gray to dark black. The most common color is a medium gray, which is often referred to as “wolf gray.” This color is thought to be the most effective camouflage in the rocky terrain of the Šar Mountains. The fur may also have a slight reddish tint in some dogs, which is more common in females. The color of the fur can also change slightly as the dog ages, with some dogs becoming lighter or darker over time. Overall, the color of the Šarplaninac’s fur is an important part of its physical characteristics, helping it to blend in with its environment and stay protected from predators.
Termperament and Trainability
The Šarplaninac is a breed of dog that is known for its strong temperament. They are independent and protective, making them excellent guard dogs. However, this temperament can also make them stubborn and difficult to train. It is important for owners to establish themselves as the pack leader and use positive reinforcement techniques to train their Šarplaninac. With patience and consistency, they can be trained to be obedient and well-behaved.
Despite their stubbornness, the Šarplaninac is a highly trainable breed. They are intelligent and have a strong desire to please their owners. They excel in activities such as obedience training, agility, and herding. It is important for owners to provide them with plenty of mental and physical stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. The Šarplaninac is a loyal and devoted companion that thrives on human interaction and attention.
Known Health Conditions
The Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a breed that is prone to certain health conditions. One of the most common 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. To prevent hip dysplasia, it is important to ensure that the Šarplaninac’s diet is well-balanced and that they get enough exercise. Regular check-ups with a veterinarian can also help to catch any signs of hip dysplasia early on.
Another health condition that the Šarplaninac is prone to is bloat, also known as gastric torsion. This is a serious condition that occurs when the stomach fills with gas and twists on itself, cutting off blood flow to the organs. Bloat can be life-threatening and requires immediate veterinary attention. To prevent bloat, it is important to feed the Šarplaninac smaller, more frequent meals throughout the day rather than one large meal. It is also important to avoid exercise or activity immediately after eating, as this can increase the risk of bloat.
Openness to Strangers
The Šarplaninac is a canine breed that is known for its openness to strangers. This breed is highly sociable and enjoys interacting with people, even those who are unfamiliar to them. They are not known to be aggressive towards strangers and are often quite welcoming to new faces. This trait makes them an excellent choice for families who enjoy having guests over or for those who live in busy neighbourhoods. The Šarplaninac’s friendly nature also makes them a popular choice for therapy and service dog work.
In addition to their openness to strangers, the Šarplaninac is also known for its loyalty and protectiveness. This breed is highly devoted to its family and will go to great lengths to protect them from harm. They are often used as guard dogs and are known for their bravery and fearlessness. Despite their protective nature, the Šarplaninac is also gentle and affectionate with their family members. They are known to be excellent with children and make great family pets. Overall, the Šarplaninac is a breed that is highly valued for its friendly and loyal nature.
Playfulness Level
The Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a highly energetic and playful breed. They are known for their love of play and their ability to keep themselves entertained for hours on end. Whether it’s chasing after a ball or playing tug-of-war with their owner, these dogs are always up for a good game. They are also highly intelligent and enjoy learning new tricks and commands, making them a great choice for owners who are looking for a dog that can keep up with their active lifestyle.
Despite their playful nature, the Šarplaninac is also a highly protective breed. They are fiercely loyal to their owners and will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. This makes them an excellent choice for families with children or for those who live in areas with high crime rates. However, it is important to note that their protective instincts can sometimes lead to aggression towards strangers or other animals, so early socialization and training is crucial. Overall, the Šarplaninac is a fun-loving and loyal breed that is sure to bring joy and excitement to any household.
Suitability as a Pet for Children
The Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a highly intelligent and loyal breed that can make a great pet for children. With their protective nature, they are known to be excellent watchdogs and will fiercely guard their family. However, they require early socialization and training to ensure they do not become overly protective or aggressive. As a large breed, they require plenty of exercise and space to roam, making them better suited for families with a large yard or access to open spaces. Their thick, double coat requires regular grooming to prevent matting and shedding. Overall, the Šarplaninac can make a wonderful pet for families with older children who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly train and care for them.
Exercise Needs
The Šarplaninac is a highly active breed that requires a significant amount of exercise to maintain their physical and mental health. As a large breed, they require a minimum of 60 minutes of exercise per day, which can be broken up into two or three shorter sessions. This breed is known for their endurance and strength, making them well-suited for activities such as hiking, running, and agility training. Additionally, they enjoy playing games such as fetch and tug-of-war, which can provide mental stimulation as well as physical exercise. It is important to note that the Šarplaninac should not be over-exercised, particularly when they are young, as this can lead to joint problems later in life.
In addition to physical exercise, the Šarplaninac also requires mental stimulation to prevent boredom and destructive behavior. This breed is highly intelligent and enjoys learning new things, making them well-suited for activities such as obedience training and puzzle games. They also enjoy spending time with their owners and thrive on human interaction, so activities such as fetch and training sessions can provide both physical and mental stimulation. It is important to provide a variety of activities to prevent boredom, as this breed can become destructive if they are not given enough mental and physical exercise. Overall, the Šarplaninac is a highly active breed that requires a significant amount of exercise and mental stimulation to maintain their health and happiness.
Suitability for a Multi-Pet Family
Šarplaninacs have a reputation for being protective of their family and territory. They are known to be independent and strong-willed, which can sometimes lead to conflicts with other pets. However, with proper socialization and training, they can learn to coexist peacefully with other animals in the household. It is important to introduce them to other pets gradually and under supervision to ensure a positive outcome.
Housing Requirements
The Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a breed that requires a spacious and secure living environment. With a height of up to 61cm and a weight of up to 45kg, this breed needs a large area to move around and exercise. A fenced yard or garden is essential to keep them safe and prevent them from wandering off. The Šarplaninac is a protective breed, and they will guard their territory and family with great loyalty. Therefore, a secure fence is necessary to prevent them from escaping and to keep them from becoming aggressive towards strangers. Additionally, they require a comfortable and warm shelter to rest in, especially during cold weather. A well-insulated dog house with a raised floor and a comfortable bed is ideal for this breed.
The Šarplaninac is a breed that thrives in an active household. They require daily exercise and mental stimulation to keep them healthy and happy. A large garden or a nearby park is ideal for them to run and play. They also enjoy going on long walks or hikes with their owners. However, they are not suitable for apartment living as they need plenty of space to move around. This breed is also known for their thick and long coat, which requires regular grooming to prevent matting and tangling. A dedicated owner who is willing to spend time grooming their Šarplaninac is essential. Overall, the Šarplaninac is a breed that requires a spacious and active living environment with a dedicated owner who can provide them with the care and attention they need.
Summary
The Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a loyal and protective companion that requires an experienced owner who can provide proper training and socialization. They are known for their strong-willed nature and can be independent thinkers, making them unsuitable for first-time dog owners. However, with the right care and attention, the Šarplaninac can make a wonderful pet for those who are willing to put in the time and effort to properly train and socialize them.
Šarplaninac Dog FAQS
No, Šarplaninacs are independent and strong-willed dogs that require consistent and firm training. Early socialization and obedience training are recommended.
Yes, Šarplaninacs are natural guard dogs that are protective of their family and territory. They have a strong sense of loyalty and will defend their home and loved ones.
Yes, Šarplaninacs are known for their protective and loyal nature, making them great family pets and good with children. However, proper socialization and training are necessary.
No, Šarplaninacs are large dogs that require space to move around and exercise. They are not suitable for apartment living and need a fenced yard to play in.
Like all breeds, Šarplaninacs are prone to certain health issues such as hip dysplasia, bloat, and eye problems. Regular vet check-ups and proper care can help prevent and manage these issues.
Yes, Šarplaninacs have a thick double coat that sheds heavily twice a year. Regular grooming and brushing are necessary to manage shedding.
Šarplaninacs can grow up to 70-90 cm (27-35 inches) in height and weigh between 35-45 kg (77-99 lbs).
The cost of a Šarplaninac puppy can range from 500-1500 euros, depending on the breeder and location. Ongoing expenses such as food, grooming, and vet care should also be considered.
Šarplaninacs are active dogs that require daily exercise and mental stimulation. They enjoy long walks, hikes, and playing in a fenced yard.
Šarplaninac, also known as the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, is a large breed of dog that originated from the Å ar Mountains in the Balkans.
