Sarplaninac picture
Sarplaninac

Macedonian Shepherd, Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, Illyrian Shepherd Dog

Overview

The Šarplaninac is a large, strongly built dog. The body is slightly longer than the height at the withers, and the front legs account for approximately 55% of the height. The head is large but proportional to the body, with dark eyes. All Šarplaninac are solid in colour: fawn, iron grey, white or almost black; usually sable or gray with darker "overalls" on the head and back, the undercoat being paler. The colour need not be completely uniform, and most Šarplaninac have several different shades of the same colour fading into one another. There are no bicolours and no uniformly black-coated dogs among purebreds, but odd-coloured specimens do exist. The dogs must not have large white patches in their coat.

The temperament of the breed is described as independent, reliable, protective but not snappy, incorruptible and devoted to its master. The breed is aloof with outsiders, and calm until a threat to the flock presents itself. The breed has an extremely protective nature. In the absence of a flock of sheep, the Šarplaninac will often treat its humans as sheep - herding them away from danger or undesirable areas. They are serene and majestic, gentle with children and smaller dogs. They are also highly intelligent and bred to work without human supervision while guarding the flocks in the high pastures. Young pups can kill small animals until trained not to hunt. Like many of its cousin Mountain dogs, the Šarplaninac is a very serious and dedicated guard dog. Due to this, they are naturally suspicious of strangers and will need good socializing at a young age to lessen this innate personality trait. They are calm and gentle with their family but when faced with danger they become a formidable foe, not a suitable breed for all. Consistent and firm training is essential to ensure compliance.

Size Large
Height 22-24 inches (56-61 cm)
Weight 55-88 pounds (25-39 kg)
Lifespan 11-13 years
Colors Black Fawn Gray Sable White
Origin Macedonia Kosovo
Classification Purebred
Good Lapcat
Good In Apartments

The Sarplaninac is not recommended for apartment life. It has an all-weather coat and will be content to live and sleep outdoors. His character demands a zesty, outdoor life. He will do best living on a farm with a flock to protect.

Good With Children

Good With Dogs

Good With Cats

Exercise Needs

This breed needs a lot of physical exercise. On a farm running free it will take care of its own exercise needs, however, if it is not actively working on a farm, it needs to be taken on a daily walk or jog.

Trainability

Affectionate

Playfulness

Grooming Requirements

Low Maintenance: Infrequent grooming is required to maintain upkeep. No trimming or stripping needed.

Shedding

Moderate Shedding: Routine brushing will help. Be prepared to vacuum often!

Vocalization/Barking

Occassional

Sarplaninac Pictures