The Abruzzenhund dog is a distinctive looking, massive but friendly dog. It originates from Italy and is also known as Maremma Sheepdog, Cane de Pastro or Abruzzess sheepdog. It is believed that this dog breed descended from the great white eastern sheepdog some 2000 years ago.
The Abruzzenhund dog has some distinct features which make this breed standout from most dog breeds. This dog has a bear-like head, a nose that is black but slowly turns to pink or brown with growing age. The eyes have an intelligent expression and the coat is dense with slightly wavy hair that are specially suited to keep the dog safe from extreme cold. This feature makes them very popular among mountain shepherds as these dogs thrive in cold and snowy seasons.
The dog has been used for hundreds of years as flock guardian. It has become independent working dog that is best suited for farm life where it has wide open spaces. The Abruzzenhund dog is not suited to apartment life style.
This breed is not recognized by AKC. It is recognized by CKC, FCI, KCGB, NKC, NZKC, APRI, ACR and DRA.
