As evidenced by its name, this breed originated in Romania, used as a flock guard dog and watchdog by Shepherds. This breed comes from the Carpathians and Danube region, bred for its utility and function with features that have been relatively unchanged until recent years.
Characterized by a nimble, vigorous look, this dog's broad croup and rectangle-shaped body features a high chest and wolf-like head. It has a broad black nose, wide skull, thick lips and almond eyes. The Rumanian Shepherd Dog has a bushy tail with lots of medium-length hair covering its body. At rest, the tail is drooped; when excited, it is held high. Its coat colors include sand or beige dotted with white spots closely spaced together. It has a strong muzzle that lends an almost regal look to the breed. Males are stronger and bulkier than females, but both genders are large and intimidating in size.
Personality
Because of its watchful and guarding nature, the Rumanian Shepherd Dog is known for its unconditional love of its master and its flocks. It's a calm, dignified dog, best led by a strong pack leader who has taken care to establish dominance early on. All humans must be high up on the command chain for a successful life together; if not, this breed responds with growling and biting. They do well with children but always supervise these interactions, as the dog's large size could hurt the child involuntarily. These calm yet playful dogs must be trained and socialized early on; otherwise, they can become a dangerous threat to those outside the immediate family.
Breed Characteristics
| Life Span: | 12 - 14 years |
| Nicknames: | Carpathian Sheepdog, Rumanian Sheepdog, Carpatin |
Romanian Shepherd Dog Build Information
Characterized by a nimble, vigorous look, this dog's broad croup and rectangle-shaped body features a high chest and wolf-like head. It has a broad black nose, wide skull, thick lips and almond eyes. The Rumanian Shepherd Dog has a bushy tail with lots of medium-length hair covering its body. At rest, the tail is drooped; when excited, it is held high. Its coat colors include sand or beige dotted with white spots closely spaced together. It has a strong muzzle that lends an almost regal look to the breed. Males are stronger and bulkier than females, but both genders are large and intimidating in size.
| Size: | Large |
Behaviour and Personality
Because of its watchful and guarding nature, the Rumanian Shepherd Dog is known for its unconditional love of its master and its flocks. It's a calm, dignified dog, best led by a strong pack leader who has taken care to establish dominance early on. All humans must be high up on the command chain for a successful life together; if not, this breed responds with growling and biting. They do well with children but always supervise these interactions, as the dog's large size could hurt the child involuntarily. These calm yet playful dogs must be trained and socialized early on; otherwise, they can become a dangerous threat to those outside the immediate family.
| Activity Level: | Moderately active |
| Affection Level: | Affectionate |
| Kid Friendliness: | Kid friendly (must be supervised) |
Appearance
Although nothing extensive or out of the ordinary is required, you'll need to brush your dog's coat occasionally, especially during shedding season. Bathe and shampoo only when necessary.
| Shedding: | Heavy |
| Grooming: | Low maintenance |
Romanian Shepherd Dog Common Health Conditions
No health issues have been reported as of yet. This is a relatively healthy breed. It does need strong and frequent physical exercise, so it's a good idea to take your dog for long walks and let him run free much of the day outdoors in a fenced-in yard.
Romanian Shepherd Dog Pet Insurance
When adding a dog or cat to your family you want to make sure your pet is happy, healthy and protected. During its lifetime your pet is exposed to many illnesses and diseases and some breeds are affected by a congenital disease which is a condition existing at birth. At these moments when your pet is ill or maybe needs surgery, you want to be protected for the unexpected and high veterinarian costs.
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Breed Talents and Facts
Due to its all-weather coat, the Rumanian Shepherd Dog enjoys living and sleeping entirely outdoors. Therefore, this is not a good dog for an apartment or a home where he will be kept confined all day. His nature demands an outdoor, natural life in the elements. It needs slots of exercise, so take it for walks or runs, and let it run about during the day. The Rumanian Shepherd Dog is also called the Carpathian Sheepdog, Rumanian Sheepdog and Carpatin. The life expectancy of the Rumanian Shepherd Dog is between 12 and 14 years.
| Training: | Easy to train |