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Breed Browser:
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Maremma Sheepdog
BACKGROUND
Although the Maremma Sheepdog is classed as a rare breed in Australia it has been known in its native Italy for 2000 years. The Maremma originates from two areas of central Italy; the Abruzzi, where the dog is called Postore Abruzzese and the Maremma where the dog is called Pastore Maremmano. The two breeds are almost identical to the dog we know as the Maremma Sheepdog.
The main function of the dog was to guard the flocks against wolves and bears, and more recently from thieves and wild dogs. The dog was left to use his own initiative in making decisions and that sense of independence is still strong in the dogs of today. In Australia, where the Maremma Sheepdog has been used as a stock guardian, farmers have reported a 35 percent reduction in losses from foxes, wild dogs and birds of prey. AVERAGE LIFESPAN
Maremma Sheepdogs live to about 12 years of age. BREED PERSONALITY, CHARACTERISTICS & TEMPERAMENT
The Maremma Sheepdog is typical of a livestock guardian, possessing a natural protective instinct. They are friendly and loyal to their own family but can be wary of strangers. They like children in their own family but need to be supervised when other children come to visit. They use their size and voice as a deterrent, and are not usually an aggressive dog. COMPATIBILITY WITH OTHER PETS
The Maremma Sheepdog gets on well with all animals be it the household cat or expensive livestock. If it is to be used as a guardian it should be introduced to its future charges as a puppy so that a strong bond will develop. Care should be taken to supervise the bonding initially, using young animals, so that the puppy doesn't get hurt while it is still too small to protect itself, and it is not advisable to leave a Maremma home alone with nothing to do. CARE REQUIREMENTS
The Maremma Sheepdog has a double coat which is both weather resistant and water repellent and can quite happily live outdoors. The long white coat sheds copiously twice a year and at this time needs a thorough brushing, paying particular attention behind the ears and down the back legs. At other times the coat stays remarkably clean and free from tangles.
In suburbia daily walks are a must. Maremmas are very intelligent dogs and need to have a purpose in life or they become bored and destructive. These dogs love water and will happily roll over in a puddle.
Please take note:
Maremmas dislike having their feet touched, but in spite of this their nails must be kept trimmed. They are also wary of people they do not know, so do not expect them to be enthusiastic with visitors. IDEAL OWNERS
This breed is for owners who like something different. The Maremma Sheepdog is very independent but devoted to their family. They will not abdicate pack leadership but may allow you to be equal. Always smiling they make a good companion as well as a working dog. IN CONCLUSION
If you have decided that the Maremma Sheepdog is the dog for you and you are happy to have a "gentle giant" occasionally throwing its weight around, contact one of the groups listed below: DECISION TIME
Before making a decision on getting a puppy, here are some articles you might find helpful:
RECOMMENDED BREEDERS
| Breeder Name | Kennel | State | | | Lisa Pontin | Monon | NSW | Contact | | John and Audrey Jamieson | Piltainga | QLD | Contact | | Louise Suel | Waioni | QLD | Contact |
| * We have vetted and approved these independent breeders as meeting, at the time, our criteria for the reliable breeding, feeding, care and sale of suitable quality puppies of this breed. This does not mean that other breeders do not meet these criteria or are not otherwise suitable suppliers. Nor can our vetting and approval guarantee the quality of a breeder or puppy or that you will be happy with them. We disclaim any liability for the quality, acts or omissions of these breeders or their puppies and our approval of breeders is not a substitute for you making all appropriate enquiries and checks (including veterinary checks) before choosing a specific breeder or puppy. |
CANINE CLUBS
Australian Capital Territory
ACT Canine Association Inc
PO Box 815
Dickson, ACT 2602
Tel: 02 6241 4404
Fax: 02 6241 1129
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.actca.asn.au
(Details correct as of 1/08/04)
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| New South Wales
Royal New South Wales Canine Council Ltd
PO Box 632
St Marys, NSW 1790
Tel: 02 9834 3022 or 1300 728 022 (NSW only)
Fax: 02 9834 3872
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.rnswcc.org.au
(Details current as of 1/08/04)
| Northern Territory
The North Australian Canine Association Inc
PO Box 37521
Winnellie, NT 0821
Tel: 08 8984 3570
Fax: 08 8984 3409
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.users.bigpond.com/naca1/
(Details correct as of 6/08/04)
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| Queensland
Canine Control Council (Queensland)
PO Box 495
Fortitude Valley, Qld 4006
Tel: 07 3252 2661
Fax: 07 3252 3864
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.cccq.org.au
(Details correct as of 1/08/04)
| South Australia
South Australian Canine Association Inc
PO Box 844
Prospect East, SA 5082
Tel: 08 8349 4797
Fax: 08 8262 5751
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.saca.caninenet.com
(Details correct as of 1/08/04)
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| Tasmania
Tasmanian Canine Association Inc
The Rothman Building
PO Box 116
Glenorchy, Tas 7010
Tel: 03 6272 9443
Fax: 03 6273 0844
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.tca.freeservers.com
(Details correct as of 1/08/04)
| Victoria
Victorian Canine Association
Locked Bag K9
Cranbourne, Vic 3977
Tel: 03 9788 2500
Fax: 03 9788 2599
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.vca.org.au
(Details correct as of 1/08/04)
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| Western Australia
Canine Association of Western Australia Inc
PO Box 1404
Canning Vale, WA 6970
Tel: 08 9455 1188
Fax: 08 9455 1190
Email: CONTACT
Website: www.cawa.asn.au
(Details correct as of 1/08/04)
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