Description
Still used in Italy to guard the flocks and property of the shepherds, he is named after the plains of Maremma, which have been used for centuries as grazing land. His exact origins are unknown, but he is believed to be a descendant of the white working dogs of the Magyars. His first appearance in Britain was recorded in 1872, but the breed was still relatively rare until 1976, when a concerted effort was made to import and breed good stock.
A majestic, large dog with a thick white weatherproof coat, he is agile, muscular and strongly built, with a preference for the outdoors. Independent by nature, he is somewhat aloof and not easy to train. He is also very intelligent, with a highly developed guarding instinct, which he automatically exercises to protect his family and home.
Breed Group
Pastoral
Vulnerable Native Breed
No
Size
Large
How much exercise?
More than 2 hours per day
Length of coat
Medium
How much grooming?
More than once a week
Supposedly sheds?*
Yes
Town or Country
Country
Type of home
Large House
Minimum Garden Size
Large
Lifespan
Over 10 Years
* If you are asthmatic or have an allergy, you should consult your medical advisor before considering obtaining a dog. More information can also be found on
the Kennel Club website.
The Pastoral Breed Group
The Pastoral Group consists of herding dogs that are associated with working cattle, sheep, reindeer and other cloven footed animals.
Usually this type of dog has a weatherproof double coat to protect it from the elements when working in severe conditions. Breeds such as the Collie family, Old English Sheepdogs and Samoyeds who have been herding reindeer for centuries are but a few included in this group.