Quick Facts

• Weight: 70 to 100 pounds
• Height: 23 to 29 inches

The Look of a Carpathian Sheepdog

The Carpathian Sheepdog is large and rectangular with a wide waist and chest; a broad, wolfish head tapering to a large black nose; and a firm, wide stance. Though big in stature, this dog should never appear heavy.

These dogs have a dense, rough coat for protection outdoors with straight, longish sandy-colored fur on the head and legs and a darker shade on the back.

The Carpathian Sheepdog’s magnificently long and bushy tail is a trademark, usually a mix of the lighter and darker shades. When the dog is relaxed, the tail hangs down and touches the hocks; when alert, the tail is held high and plumes into a slight sickle shape.

Traits

• Noble, dignified demeanor and stance
• Exceptional guarding ability
• Full, rough all-weather coat
• Plumed tail
• Well-balanced nature
• Lifespan: 12 to 14 years

Ideal Human Companion

• Owners who want an outside dog
• Households with ample indoor and outdoor space
• Those looking to spend little time grooming
• Outdoor types

What They Are Like to Live With

This is an agile, stately dog with a dignified demeanor. Carpathian Sheepdogs seem to think they are worthy of great admiration, and any owner will certainly comply. Because it was bred to guard flocks, this is an excellent guard dog with an even temperament and devotion to its family. This is a breed for owners looking for a quiet, serious dog who somewhat melts into the landscape until called upon to work.

Owners of Carpathian Sheepdogs should give their dogs space to roam and take very long daily walks with them.

The Carpathian Sheepdog has a full, rough coat but needs little grooming. Because it was bred to be outside, its coat is fairly self-maintained with only an occasional brushing needed.

Things You Should Know

The Carpathian Sheepdog is an outdoor dog at heart, so if you’re not the outdoor type, consider a different breed. These dogs should not live in apartments or small houses because they are pacers and need room indoors to move about. Most Carpathian Sheepdogs are actually happier living at least partly outside, where they will feel they are doing their jobs.

This is a healthy dog, with only a few known ailments that include hip dysplasia and bloat.

Carpathian Sheepdog History

The Carpathian Sheepdog is also known as the Carpathian Shepherd Dog, Rumanian Sheepdog, and the Carpatin. It was first bred in Romania to guard the shepherds’ flocks. They are still working dogs, and their look and temperament have barely changed.

The National Zootechnical Institute established the first standard of the breed in 1934. The Carpathian Shepherd Dogs Club was formed in 1998.