Description

Also called the Yugoslavian Shepherd Dog, the Šarplaninac (pronounced shar-pla-ni-natz) is a Molosser-type livestock guardian. Although smaller than other guardian breeds, the Šarplaninac has a tough, strong build that makes it a formidable foe to predators that dare to attack the dog’s flock.

The Šarplaninac has a relatively short but broad muzzle, with a teeth that meet in an even scissor bite. The nose is wide and black, the eyes are dark and almond shaped, and the ears are V-shaped and floppy. The Šarplaninac’s neck looks shorter than it is due to the thick fur. It is of medium length, with good musculature, and no dewlap. The front legs are straight and sturdy. The hind-legs are slightly more angular than the forelimbs.

Origin: Macedonia/Serbia/Kosovo

Look

This breed is double coated, with a long, rough outer coat, and a finer fuzzy undercoat. The fur is much shorter on the head, front of the legs, and ears, but longer on the backside, neck, tail, and back of the legs.

The Šarplaninac can be any solid colour, though the most common colour is iron grey. The usual colour range is from white to an almost black. The upper part of the dog, such as the back, is typically darker, with a gradual lightening towards the underside. According to the breed standard, a few tiny white markings on the chest and toes are acceptable.

Despite their long fuzzy coat, they don’t need daily grooming. A thorough brushing every so often will help to remove tangles and loose fur. The Šarplaninac only sheds moderately. As yet, it is unknown whether the breed is hypoallergenic, so the Šarplaninac might not be the best choice for someone with allergies.

Health

The Šarplaninac is generally a healthy breed; however they are prone to a few health conditions:

• Hip dysplasia
• Bloat

At Newdoggy.com, we recommend that you buy your dog from reputable breeders, who use genetic testing and good breeding practices to remove genetic conditions from their breeding lines.

Learning

The Šarplaninac is very clever, though their independent nature can make them difficult to train. They have a strong instinct to protect their family, but with proper socialisation Šarplaninacs will get on fine with new people and strange dogs. They do have an urge to herd, and may attempt to herd you and your family away from perceived danger!

Temperament

The Šarplaninac has an independent and protective nature. With proper training and socialisation, you will find yourself with a reliable and loyal pet. Training and socialisation are very important, because the Šarplaninac is naturally protective, and may be aggressive in its attempts to keep you safe. Training will help your Šarplaninac learn not view all strangers as threats, though they may be a little aloof with the latter. This is not a breed for everyone, but if you are prepared to put in the time and work, you will see your efforts rewarded.

Living with

If you’re thinking of getting a Šarplaninac, consider whether your home is a good fit for this breed. The Sarplaninac breed will probably not enjoy living in an apartment. This breed does best in a house with a garden or, better still, a farm. Their fuzzy coat protects them from the elements, and they don’t mind the cold or wet much (though of course, offer them shelter). If you plan on keeping a Šarplaninac as a working dog, then they will get plenty of exercise on the job. If not, make sure you walk your Šarplaninac once or twice a day to keep them fit and happy.

Although big and powerful, the Šarplaninac is very gentle with children. Be sure to supervise though, as a young exuberant Šarplaninac may knock over small children my mistake. They also get on well with smaller dogs as rule.