The independent-minded Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog worked as a Livestock Guardian in the Carpathian mountains, and did this job without help from his owners. Today, he is just as faithful and reliable towards both his flock and owner. This giant-sized, confident breed served as an intimidating deterrent to predators and strangers alike – with a strong temperament to match his imposing size. He was, and still is, more than willing to back up his bark with a bite! This is not a breed for the novice dog owner.
With his own family, the Romanian Mioritic is affectionate and friendly. He tends to bond very strongly with the “family pack”, which also includes pets, livestock and children. Cats, other dogs, and even smaller animals will be included as long as he grows up with them from puppyhood. With strangers, he is extremely mistrustful and territorial. In the family, the Mioritic considers it his job to watch over and protect “his pack”. Many will choose a preferred spot in the home to lay down while they keep watch – spending most of their time in that one special place. Some will choose a particular person whom they give extra time to, and will follow that person from room to room. Despite being good with kids, he is not big into playing and prefers… again, to simply observe and keep watch over.
When it comes to training, the Mioritic Shepherd tends toward stubbornness. This isn’t surprising when one remembers that he was originally bred to make decisions on his own and work independently. He can also exhibit a sensitivity to harsh handling, so corrections should always be fair. As this breed can exhibit excessive dominance when given too much freedom, obedience training is required. An owner of this powerful guardian breed must also be ready to put a stop to any excessive protective behaviors he might try (excessive being the key word here – protection is in this breed’s blood and cannot be extinguished). A dog that understands obedience commands will be much easier to communicate with and handle.
The coat of the Mioritic is long and does require regular grooming. This said, the harsh texture and general properties of the coat itself means that it is still lower maintenance than other long haired breeds. As this is a giant breed with a love of romping outdoors, it is mostly dependent on the owner’s desired level of cleanliness as to how much grooming needs to be involved. As a dog that originally lived almost exclusively outdoors, the coat is somewhat dirt resistant which means that the majority of dirt will dry and fall off in a few hours – but whether it falls off to the extent that an owner would be happy with is another story! It is recommended that the dog is brushed at least once a week (all the way to the skin), at which time the owner can also clean teeth, ears and eyes. Baths can be given as much, or as little, as desired.
Romanian Mioritic Shepherds have an active nature when younger and do require daily exercise. Long hikes or walks are always appreciated. When they mature, they don’t require as much exercise although should still be given a daily walk. Unlike some breeds that also require a regular mental job in addition to exercise, the Mioritic already chooses his occupation – guarding his family – so he doesn’t necessarily need anything extra. This said, he enjoys participating in activities with his people so any extra games or sports will be icing on the cake for a fulfilling life!
Although the majority of Mioritic Shepherd Dogs usually live healthy lives during their average 12-14 years, all purebred and mixed breeds are susceptible to health issues. Hip dysplasia and bloat are the most common health maladies seen in this breed. Dogs that aren’t brushed to the skin when being groomed can form mats which then makes them prone to skin irritations. Furthermore dogs that live outside frequently are more prone to parasites without the proper treatment. Regular grooming, health care and general maintenance will play a big part in keeping the Mioritic healthy and happy!
