The Hellenikos Poimenikos is an ancient herding and guardian breed originating in Greece. Also known as Greek Sheepdog and Greek Shepherd, the dog is valued for its intelligence and trainability. Although exact facts are unknown as to the ancestors of this breed, it is related to the great mountain breeds of Serbia, Bosnia, Bulgaria, Montenegro, Rumania, Albania and Turkey, as well as to the dogs of Central Asia and Kavkaz.
The dog has a height and weight between 23-29 inches and 70-110 lbs respectively. It is a large breed with solid body and great physical strength that allows the dog not only to herd the flocks but also to fight the predators. It has a medium size head with broad skull. The muzzle is wide and deep and tapers to the black or coat matching self-coloured nose. Almond- shaped eyes are average size. The neck is strong and muscular. The body has level topline with deep and wide chest that comes with well sprung ribs. Forelegs are set moderately apart while hindlegs long and muscular. The tail is thick at the base. Some have long tails while others have short or no tails. Double, dense and abundant coat comes in black, grayish-brown and white.
This breed is NOT recognized by AKC.
