Carpathian Sheepdog (Carpathian Shepherd Dog)

The Carpathian Sheepdog is a large-sized canine breed originating in the Carpathian Mountains, Romania. It is characterized by a rectangular-shaped body, wolf-like head, broad forehead with slight curves, big, black nose, brown, almond-shaped eyes, V-shaped drooping ears, thick, strongly pigmented lips, wide chest, and a long bushy tail that stands high attaining a sickle shape when the dog is alert, but hangs down touching the hocks, once it is relaxed. Their alertness, in combination to their loyal and calm disposition makes them a perfect guard dog.

Carpathian Sheepdog Pictures

History

It has been said that the Carpathian Shepherd dog along with other Mountain dog breeds as well as livestock guardians were descendants of dogs originating in the Mesopotamia region about 9000 years back. They served the needs of the Romanian peasants for centuries, who used them to protect their herds of sheep from several predators like brown bear, lynx, wolf and jackal.

The standards for this breed was first set in 1934 by the National Zootechnical Institute which was later modified in 1982, 1999 and 2001 by the Romanian Kennel Club. Besides being recognized by the FCI (Federation Cynologique Internationale) it has also been completely approved by the UKC (United Kennel Club) on the 1^st July, 2006.

Temperament

These serious, hard working dogs are extremely loyal and devoted towards their family members striving hard to protect them even at the cost of their lives.

Their close attachment with their near and dear ones makes them feel lonely when left alone for a prolonged period.

Having a gentle and loving disposition, the Carpathian Shepherd dog will mingle well with children of the family. They are so well-mannered that they might even put up with the pranks of mischievous children.

It is because of the guard dog instincts inherent in them that these canines might be suspicious and indifferent towards strangers, even going to the extent of growling or nipping at them.

As they had been bred to work with other dogs to protect livestock, this breed may get along well with familiar canines, though might be aggressive with strange types, especially if the latter tries to intrude into his territory.

However, they might display some amount of guardianship towards the pets (canine or non-canine) dwelling in the same family as theirs.

They are well-suited for country life, but may also thrive well in cities provided they are kept in big, spacious houses with a yard or garden. They may detest apartment life, and can also be destructive and aggressive when confined to a small and limited space.

Training

Its headstrong and strong willed nature can be tackled well by a firm and patient trainer.

Socialization: Make the Carpathian Sheep dog puppies interact with different kinds of people and animals to help them distinguish the negative experiences from the positive ones.

Agility: After they have mastered certain commands such as “sit”, “stay” and “come”, you can teach your dog certain agility tricks like crawling through a tunnel ( take a plastic tunnel for this purpose) or jumping over tiers.

Obedience: When you are teaching your dog a certain command say “sit”, first do it in a quiet room and then move to busier places like your living room with the television on or in the busy street, so that he follows the command obediently no matter wherever it is given.

Feeding

Make sure to give them a nutritious meal so that they may remain healthy. However, divide their food into smaller meals to avoid bloating. D o not give them any water or exercise them within an hour before as well as after meeting.

Interesting Facts

• The Carpathian Shepherd Dogs Club had been founded in the year 1998 by a group of fans that was later named as the National Club of Carpathian Shepherd Dog Breeders.
• Sexual dimorphism is clearly visible in this breed with the males having a tall and strong stature in comparison to their female counterparts.