Maremma Sheepdog
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The Maremma is rolling countryside with wooded hills that reach down to the sea along the coast from Cecina to Rome. This used to be an excellent pastureland for cattle, sheep, and horses, and provided almost impenetrable cover where wild boar, roe deer, bears and wolves could escape destruction. The Maremma could usually be found in all the fine houses of Tuscany.
The Maremma Sheepdog is a proud and dignified breed, the product of the harsh solitary lifestyle that it has endured for generations. It is supremely loyal to its family, while also an excellent protector and guard. However, it is also a thinking dog and is consequently not naturally subservient. It will rationalize what is asked of it before acquiescing.
The breed is often confused with the Great Pyrenees and Kuvasz, but the Maremma has a very distinctive head. This is conical in shape and quite large in proportion to the body. It is vaguely reminiscent of a polar bear’s head – broad between the ears but not short in muzzle. The whole head is smooth and the eyes almond shaped and dark; the ears are small, high set, with pointed tips and lying flat against the skull. It is important that the pigment in the lips, eye rims and pads should be black. Males should look overtly masculine, with a very pronounced ruff, while bitches are noticeably feminine in looks and disposition.
The Maremma Sheepdog is powerfully built and slightly off square with high withers. At the shoulder, males stand 6572 cm while bitches are 6067 cm. The tail hangs low but curves at the tip when carried out level with the back in an action that is nimble and free, giving the impression of a dog that can turn easily. The coat should be all white, but a little ivory or biscuit shading is usually tolerated. In texture, it is harsh and plentiful with a thick undercoat. A little waviness – but not curl – is permitted. The tail should be well covered with thick hair.