History of Maremma Sheepdog

The history of the Maremma Sheepdog spans over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest known breeds. They originated in Italy (south of Tuscany, Northern Lazio area). They have been used for centuries guarding sheep and goats. They were first imported into the United States in the 1970's. They have remained fairly rare in the United States, though they are increasing in popularity as people realize how special they are. They are considered a Livestock Guardian Dog (LGD).

They have been called different names over the years:

• The Cane da pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese (this means "The dog of the shepherds of the Maremmano and Abruzzese)

• Canis pastoralis

All purebred Maremmas are solid white or slightly off-white in color. They are mentioned in Ancient Roman literature by Columello, Varro, and Palladius. Often when you see sculptures or paintings from Roman times of dogs, this is the breed that is depicted.

Many breeds are altered over years, but the Maremma-Abruzzese has not. Shepherds have always protected this breed and just focused on enhancing their functional abilities, which are their amazing ability to guard sheep from wolves. They have the size, strength, temperament, intelligence, decision-making skills, and thick coat to handle this very large job.

It is believed that the Maremma-Abruzzese sheep dog is traced back to the Tibetan mastiff, from which many livestock guardian dogs descended:

• The Kuvasz come from Hungary

• The Akbash from Turkey

• The Tatra from Poland

• The Great Pyrenees from France

During World War II, the Maremma Sheepdog was almost eradicated by the German Army. Since they were unable to fight them, due to their ferocity, they would shoot them on the spot.

We are so thankful to have this amazing breed to protect our livestock! Read more about why our family chose the Maremma Sheepdog out of all of the livestock guardian dogs here.