Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog

Also called Cane da Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese, Maremma Sheepdog, Maremma, Pastore Abruzzese, Abruzzese Sheepdog

A dignified, level-headed guardian that thinks for itself.

Size	Giant
Weight	30 to 52 kg (66 to 115 lb)males 35 to 52 kg, females 30 to 45 kg1 2
Height	60 to 73.5 cm (24 to 29 in)males 65 to 73.5 cm, females 60 to 70 cm1 2
Lifespan	from 10 years3
Coat	Long, harsh, straight, with winter undercoat
Origin	Italy: the Abruzzo region and the Maremma of Tuscany and Lazio.1 2
Group	FCI group 1

Recognised breedShort profile

devoted guardian of flock and family

calm, thoughtful and independent

hardy all-weather worker

1 2

Personality what they are like

A dignified, level-headed guardian that thinks for itself. It is devoted to its owner and the whole household, and naturally keeps watch over the animals and property in its care.1 2

Coat and looks how to spot one

long, harsh, straight, with winter undercoat

A large, powerful and majestic guardian, slightly longer than tall. The harsh, flat-lying outer coat can reach about 8 cm on the body and forms a mane-like collar around the neck, while the hair on the face, ears and front legs stays short. A dense undercoat grows in winter.1 2

Colourssolid whitelight shades of ivory, pale orange or lemon tolerated in small areas1 2

The care rhythm a typical week and year

A typical home-care rhythm for a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog. A starting point, not a vet's advice.

BrushingDaily during heavy sheddingevery 3 days
Double coats insulate against cold and heat, so shaving is not recommended
Bathevery 10 weeks
Nail trimSooner if you hear clicking on the floorevery month
Ear checkevery 2 weeks
Teeth brushingDaily brushing is idealevery 2 days
ExerciseDaily walks and playevery day
Flea, tick and worm protectionSchedule as your vet recommendsas your vet recommends
Vet check-upSenior years usually start around age 6every year

Daily activity how busy a day looks

A lot: more than two hours a day, ideally with a large area to patrol. It is happiest with a real guarding job.3

Grooming and care the hands-on bits

Brush more than once a week to keep the harsh coat clean and tangle-free; expect heavier shedding when the undercoat moults.3

Home where they are happiest

Suits a large house with a big, securely fenced garden, preferably in the countryside; not an apartment dog.3

Food basics what goes in the bowl

A complete diet for a large, working breed, with portions matched to its activity level.1

Company who they like around

Bonds strongly with those it lives with, human or animal; puppies raised with sheep from a young age grow up treating the flock as their own.2

The story where it all began

White flock guardians were described by Roman writers such as Columella and Varro, and this breed descends from the shepherd dogs of Abruzzo and the Maremma. Seasonal movement of flocks between the two regions blended the local types, and in 1958 Italy's kennel club formally united them as one breed.1 2

Fun facts for the dinner table

1
Since 2006 Maremmas have guarded a colony of little penguins on Middle Island in Australia.2
2
Working dogs traditionally wore a 'roccale', an iron collar with spikes, to shield the neck from wolves.2
3
Farmers in Patagonia use the breed to keep pumas away from livestock.2
4
The Maremmano and the Abruzzese were treated as two separate breeds until 1958.2

Where the name comes from the story behind it

The breed name comes from the Maremma region of Tuscany and Lazio in central Italy, combined with the Abruzzo region, reflecting its indigenous origins in both areas.4

Famous ones stars of the breed

Fido A famous Maremma Sheepdog known for his loyalty, waiting for his owner at a bus stop for 14 years after his owner died in a WWII bombing.4

Name ideas for your new friend

BiancaFioreGrigioLeoLunaMammaNeveNonnaOrsoPietroStellaToro

A day in the life told by a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog

I rose with the sun and padded around the yard, watching for any intruder. My human brought out the sheep, and I stood tall, my white coat gleaming. All morning I circled the flock, keeping order. At noon, I lay in the shade, one ear perked. A stray dog approached, but I gave a low, calm bark, and he moved away. Later, I joined my human for a slow walk along the fence line. Now I rest, my head on my paws, guarding the quiet night.

A made-up story, just for fun. Not advice of any kind.

Recognised by the official bits

FCI: Standard no. 201, Group 1 Sheepdogs and Cattledogs, Section 1 Sheepdogs. Definitive acceptance 13.03.1956; current standard dated 03.12.2025.5
The Royal Kennel Club: Recognised as the Maremma Sheepdog in the Pastoral Group.3
ENCI (Italy): First registrations 1898; standard drawn up in 1924; the Maremmano and Abruzzese were unified as one breed in 1958.2

Treats they will love homemade and simple

Simple Carrot Crunchies

Carrots are low in calories and high in fibre, making them a crunchy, satisfying treat that won't pile on the pounds.

You need

1 large carrot, washed and peeled

How

Cut the carrot into thin, bite-sized sticks or rounds.
Steam or boil the carrot pieces for 5–7 minutes until just tender, or serve raw for extra crunch.
Allow to cool completely before offering to your dog.

How much: Give 2–3 small pieces per day for a medium-sized dog, adjusting for your dog's size and daily calorie allowance.

Recipe from The Kennel Club

Pumpkin & Yoghurt Pup-Cup

Pumpkin is packed with fibre and vitamins, helping dogs feel full without extra calories, and low-fat yoghurt keeps it light.

You need

1 cooking pumpkin
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat yoghurt
½ cup lactose-free, low-fat whipping cream
Cinnamon, to sprinkle

How

Peel the pumpkin and remove all seeds.
Cut the flesh into small pieces and steam for 15 minutes until soft.
Mash the cooked pumpkin until smooth and let it cool completely.
Mix 1 tablespoon of the mashed pumpkin with the yoghurt.
Spoon the mixture into a small paper cup.
Whip the cream until soft peaks form and spoon it on top of the yoghurt mixture.
Sprinkle a tiny pinch of cinnamon over the cream.

How much: One pup-cup is plenty for a medium-sized dog as an occasional treat. Adjust portion size for smaller or larger dogs.

Recipe from Dogs Trust

Homemade Dog Biscuits (Chicken & Rice)

A simple, tasty treat made from gentle ingredients that are easy on sensitive stomachs, perfect for rewarding without upset.

You need

1 egg
170g boiled chicken breast
100g cooked plain rice
60ml chicken stock (homemade or no added salt)
680g plain flour (adjust as needed for consistency)

How

Preheat oven to 180°C and line a baking tray with baking paper.
Blitz the boiled chicken, cooked rice, and chicken stock in a blender until smooth.
Transfer to a bowl, add the egg and flour, and mix well.
Dust a clean surface with flour, turn out the dough, and knead until no longer sticky.
Roll dough to about 1cm thickness and cut into shapes with a cookie cutter.
Place on the tray and bake for 25–30 minutes until golden.
Cool completely before serving.

How much: 1–2 biscuits as an occasional treat for a medium-sized healthy dog. Adjust for your dog's size, age, and activity level.

Recipe from Blue Cross

Not veterinary advice. Check with your vet first if your pet has allergies, a health condition, is on a special diet or is pregnant. Treats should stay a small part of the daily food. Cut to a safe size and supervise. Terms of use

Owner questions the things everyone asks

How often should I feed my Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog, and at what times?

Feed adult dogs at least two meals a day, and puppies three to four smaller meals. The exact times can vary with your schedule, but consistency helps. For portion sizes, check the food label and ask your vet.6

What should a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog eat, and which foods are dangerous?

A complete diet for a large, working breed is best, with portions matched to activity level. Dangerous foods include chocolate, grapes, raisins, onions, garlic, xylitol, and many others, avoid these entirely. Always stick to safe, balanced dog food.1 7

How often should I bathe a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog?

Pet Wiki's starting plan suggests a bath every 70 days, and general guidance says at least once every three months. Bathe more often if your dog gets very dirty or has skin issues, but avoid over-bathing to protect the coat.8 Pet Wiki plan

How often does a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog need brushing?

Brush more than once a week to keep the harsh coat clean and tangle-free. Pet Wiki's plan recommends every three days, and daily during heavy shedding. This breed has a dense undercoat that moults, so regular brushing is key.3 Pet Wiki plan

How do I trim a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog's nails, and how often?

Trim nails every 28 days, or sooner if you hear clicking on the floor. Cut a little at a time, stopping before the quick to avoid pain. If unsure, ask your vet or a groomer for a demo.8 Pet Wiki plan

How much exercise does a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog need?

This breed needs a lot of exercise, more than two hours a day, ideally with a large area to patrol. Daily walks and play are essential, and they are happiest with a real guarding job. A securely fenced garden is a must.3 Pet Wiki plan

How do I look after a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog's teeth and ears?

Brush teeth daily if possible, or at least two to three times a week, using dog toothpaste only. Check ears every two weeks and clean gently, never push anything into the ear canal. Your vet can show you the best technique.8 Pet Wiki plan

How long does a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog live?

This majestic guardian typically lives around 10 years. With good care, regular vet checks, and a healthy lifestyle, they can enjoy a long, happy life. Senior years usually start around age 6.3 Pet Wiki plan

Is a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog good with children and other pets?

Yes, they bond strongly with their household, including children and other animals. Puppies raised with sheep from a young age treat the flock as their own. Their devoted, level-headed nature makes them wonderful family guardians.1 2

Can a Maremmano-Abruzzese Sheepdog be left alone?

This varies with the individual dog and its training. They are independent thinkers but thrive with a job and company. For specific advice on your dog, ask a good breeder or your vet.

Written from the sources on this page, a few checked guides (VCA, ASPCA, RSPCA) and Pet Wiki's own starting care plan. A friendly guide, not a vet's advice.