Carpathian Shepherd Dog Breed

This breed originated in the Carpathian Mountain region of Romania and has been employed for hundreds of years as a flock guardian. Although an original standard was published in 1934, this was not adapted by major Kennel Clubs such as the FCI until 2002. They are considered shepherd dogs and are dedicated to both master and flock, watching tirelessly to protect their charges. Members of this breed are independent, calm, stable dogs that do best with an owner that can provide them work, otherwise, an active, athletic individual will be a decent match. Carpathians need plenty of space both indoors and out and are not suited to apartment life.

PROS

• calm, laid back, stable temperament
• good with children
• usually does well with other pets
• can live indoors or out provided enough exercise
• low maintenance other than regular brushing
• easily exercised
• superior flock guardian
• protective and loyal towards owner/family
• generally healthy

CONS

• rare
• independent nature may be hard to train
• does best with experienced owner
• needs plenty of outdoor space (large yard or pastures)
• sheds consistently
• may be overprotective if not trained and socialized appropriately

Carpathian Shepherd information may be limited but there is a breed standard available. According to the FCI, Carpathian Shepherds are large dogs, rectangular bodied and deep-chested; overall, their look is wolfish with an air of agile athleticism. Noses are always black, eyes brown and dropped triangular ears of medium size. Members of this breed have dense, doubly-layered coats with the outer being medium-long, straight and harsh; coloration is usually light fawn overlain with different shades of black and grey. CS dogs have bushy tails that are carried low and straight or slightly saber-like.

• The intelligence of this breed is described as agile and shrewd-- they are natural protectors and need little training to perform their natural flock guarding duties. With most independent breeds, an experienced or firm leader is need for an owner and these types of dogs may still prefer to make their own decisions. This breed is, however, described as very loyal, protective and devoted to its owner.

• Early training and socialization is recommended for independent breeds. Owners and breeders describe the Carpathian as stable, calm, patient and dedicated. They do well with children and other animals but may remain watchful and aloof around any strangers. This breed will make a good dog for personal and property protection.

• Carpathian Shepherds fare best when they have plenty of room to roam. A large fenced yard, at the very least, or an extensive pasture suits them best. Owners that can task them with flock guardianship duties are their natural match but an active owner seeking a protective companion may also do. A few daily walks and outdoor time will meet their exercise requirements.

This breed is rare outside of it's homeland of Romania and, therefore, we know little about the health of this breed-- other than the average lifespan of 12-14 years. We can assume they may be prone to the usual large dog problems such as bloat, joint degradation and, perhaps, obesity.