Maremmano

The best known of the Italian sheepdogs, the Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog takes its name after the spacious grazing plains of southern Tuscany and Abruzzo mountains. Initially an attempt to revive the old Maremma Sheepdog, it was developed by crossing the mountain type Abruzzese shepherds with the surviving specimens of lowland lupoid white and cream-coloured dogs of Tuscany. This cross initially went under the name Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog, but today it's commonly referred to as just Maremma outside Italy, seing how the old type Tuscan herders do not exist anymore. Truly a beautiful breed, it is deservedly quite popular throughout the world. Although not nearly as aggressive as its closest relative, the Abruzzese Mastiff and some other Molossers, the Cane di Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese is more than capable of protecting sheep from wolves, thieves and even bears. It also makes an impressive watchdog, thanks to its territorial nature.

Strongly built, sturdy and massive, the Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog is a surprisingly lively and agile breed. Not at all lethargic, it enjoys every type of activity with its master and family. Its playful character makes it a wonderful rural companion, but it isn't suited for the role of an urban pet, seing how some working bloodlines are said to be unstable and certain specimens can be quite unfriendly towards other dogs. A breed of extraordinary intelligence, the Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog is reasonably easy to train, although some examples tend to be undemostrative and fairly stubborn. The ideal appearance of the breed is a perfectly balanced physical type between the lupoid and molossoid varieties, massive enough to confront predators, but lean enough to be sufficiently athletic and agile.

The long, harsh coat is uniform white, although minimal shading of pale fawn and ivory isn't uncommon. Average height is around 27 inches.