The Rumanian Sheepdog was used for centuries by the shepherds from all over the Danube and Carpathian Mountains area. The breed was only recognized by the international kennel clubs in 2002. There are three varieties of this breed: the Bukovina Sheepdog, the Mioritic Sheepdog and the Carpathian Sheepdog.
All the three breeds were used for sheep herding and protection against wildlife. Their names come from the regions in Romania in which each breed originated. They all keep the same characteristics as the endemic dogs in each area had centuries ago.
The Rumanian Sheepdog is a breed that will always protect what is precious to them, no matter what it takes. These dogs are capable of fighting or driving away vicious animals like wolves or even larger ones, like bears. The breed has gained a lot of popularity not only amongst people living in Romania, but also abroad.
Regardless of the breed sub-category, all of these dogs are large, strong and with a vigorous appearance. Despite the large body, they can be very fast - and never clumsy!
They also have a massive head, with a broad skull. The nose is large and always black. The eyes vary, depending on the breed sub-category but in all cases are almond shaped and dark colored.
All dogs of this breed have large, powerful jaws, with a perfect scissor bite. The ears are usually long, with rounded tips. The body is strong, muscular, and with an imposing figure.
The coating varies, depending of the breeds characteristics. The Mioritic Sheep has the longest coat, covering its entire body, even the head and legs with the top coat being rough and long, and the undercoat smooth and short. The basic color is white, sometimes with patches of gray or cream.
The Bukovina Sheepdog and the Carpathian Sheepdog have similar coats, very abundant, also with two layers, but a lot shorter in comparison to their Mioritic cousin. The Carpathian has a sandy coat, with different shades, often darker over the body, while the Bukovina Shepherd has a white coat, with well-defined black or charcoal patches.
All varieties are well-balanced, calm and with an unconditioned devotion towards their herds, flocks and most important, their master. They are excellent watchdogs as well as guard dogs. Their powerful bark can be a good warning call in case of danger. Their native instinct of guardians makes them very reluctant towards strangers. In order to have a good relationship with the dog, the owner and family must achieve pack leader status. You can easily do this with proper training. An apartment is not a suitable living space for these dogs. Their all-weather coat provides them comfort for outdoor living. As long as a large yard or the proper amount of exercise is provided, your dog will be a happy dog. The grooming is also an important operation, because of the thick coat. Although it was built for power and aggression towards enemies, the Rumanian Sheepdog is a gentle giant after all.
