The Romanian Carpathian Shepherd is a large, protective breed developed in the Carpathian Mountains for guarding livestock. They are loyal to their families, but require early socialization, and consistent training.
Origin and Purpose
Developed in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania, the breed was primarily used for guarding and herding livestock.
Appearance
Dimensions
Gender
Height
Weight
Female
23.6 - 27.6 inches (60 - 70 cm)
66 - 100 pounds (30 - 45 kg)
Male
25.6 - 29.1 inches (65 - 73 cm)
77 - 110 pounds (35 - 50 kg)
Coat
Attribute
Notes
Color
Light fawn, shades of grey fawn, and grey with black overlay, often with white markings
Type
Double coat with a harsh, straight outer coat and a dense, soft undercoat
Length
Medium to long
Care
Attribute
Notes
Shedding
Moderate to heavy
Grooming
Regular brushing, especially during shedding season
Drooling
Low
Body
Attribute
Notes
Head
Strong and well-developed
Skull
Slightly domed
Ears
Triangular, set high, and carried close to the cheeks
Eyes
Almond-shaped, brown
Nose
Black
Muzzle
Powerful, well-developed
Teeth
Strong with a scissor bite
Neck
Muscular and thick
Forequarters
Straight and well-boned
Fore Legs
Muscular with strong bone structure
Hindquarters
Well-muscled and powerful
Hind Legs
Strong, with good angulation
Feet
Oval, with arched toes
Tail
Bushy, set high, carried straight or slightly curved
Gait
Harmonious, light, and free
Temperament
Courageous, intelligent, calm, loyal, and devoted.
Social
Attribute
Notes
Affectionate with Family
Very affectionate with family
Good with Children
Good with children when raised together
Good with Dogs
Can be good with other dogs when properly socialized
Good with Cats
May be good with cats when raised together
Openness to Strangers
Reserved and aloof with strangers
Playfulness Level
Moderate
Protective Nature
Very protective of its family and territory
Adaptability Level
Moderate; prefers a consistent environment
Working Roles
Livestock guardian, herding dog, family companion
Exercise Needs
Requires moderate to high daily exercise
Health
Generally healthy, but can be prone to hip and elbow dysplasia.
Additional Notes
Requires early socialization and consistent training due to their independent nature. They need space to roam and work and benefit from a job to do.