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ABOUT DOG BREEDS
 MAREMMA SHEEPDOG
Description Temperament Height and Weight Health Problems
Ideal Living Conditions Exercise Life Expectancy Litter Size
Grooming Origin Group Color
Breed Clubs Breed Rescues

Description
The Maremma Sheepdog is a solidly built breed. Its body is strong and well muscled. The chest is deep and broad. From the head extends a neck that is broad and well muscled. There is some loose skin and extra fur at the neck area. It has a massive head that features an average size muzzle and a vague stop. The nose is prominent and black. Its eyes are not prominent and black. Its eyes are not prominent, but average size. The ears are small and set high on its head, but hang loosely at the sides of its head. They are shaped like the letter "V." Both the front and back legs are straight. The breed's tail is set low and hangs down at the hocks. It has a profuse amount of thick fur.
Temperament
The Maremma Sheepdog is a brave and large breed. It is bred as a guardian of flock and naturally seeks to protect those that are closest to it. While it is devoted, it does have a tendency toward independence. This may hinder training this breed, but not too a significant degree.
Height and Weight
The Maremma Sheepdog varies in size from male to female. Males are about 25-28 inches tall and weigh an average of 77-99 pounds. Females are 23-26 inches tall and weigh about 66-86 pounds.
Health Problems
The Maremma Sheepdog is a generally healthy breed. Hip dysplasia is the most common condition that may develop in some types. Although rare, some types develop conditions of the thyroid.
Ideal Living Conditions
The two big issues with the living conditions of the Maremma Sheepdog are space and temperature. Because the breed is very active, small spaces are not recommended. A large backyard or other spacious areas is more suitable for this breed. While its coat will protect it in cold weather, it does not do well in extreme heat.
Exercise
The Maremma Sheepdog needs an owner that can provide it with plenty of physical exercise. A daily walk may suffice for most breeds, but this dog needs physical activity that exerts a lot of energy. The exercise doesn't have to take place all at one time. Several opportunities of exercise throughout the day is fine.
Life Expectancy
The Mareema Sheepdog lives an average of 11-13 years.
Litter Size
The Maremma Sheepdog has an average of 6-10 puppies.
Grooming
The Maremma Sheepdog has the benefit of possessing a coat that will protect it in most weather. However, this is a benefit for the dog only. An owner of this breed needs to spend a significant amount of time brushing and caring for the coat.
Origin
The Maremma Sheepdog has a history that begins more than 2000 years ago in Europe. The exact city is
Group
Flock Guard
Color
White is the main color of the Maremma Sheepdog, but other shades (light yellow or cream) are also accepted.
Breed Clubs
Maremma Sheepdog Club of America (MSCA) http://www.all-animals.com/maremmaMaremma Sheepdog Club of Great Britain http://www.maremma-sheepdogs.co.uk
Breed Rescues
Maremma Sheepdog Club of America Rescue http://www.all-animals.com/maremma/rescue.html

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