Page 43 - The Complete Dog Breed Book Choose the Perfect Dog for You, New Edition (DK)

W ORKING DOG S 43

CROATIAN SHEPHERD DOG

THIS HERDING AND GUARDING DOG IS MORE SUITED TO WORK THAN DOMESTICITY FCI

Height range Relatively small and lightly built for a shepherd dog, this
16–20 in (40–50 cm) breed is active and alert. Easy to train for work, the Croatian
Weight range Shepherd Dog may be harder to handle as a house dog
29–44 lb (13–20 kg)
because of its natural herding and guarding instincts. Narrow
Life span 13–14 years Its unusually wavy or curly coat is a distinctive feature. muzzle
Origin Croatia
Erect, triangular
ears lined with
long hair
Wavy,
black coat
Short hair
on face

Backs of legs
slightly feathered
Shorter hair
on lower legs

SARPLANINAC

THIS MAGNIFICENT AND VERY PROTECTIVE WORKING DOG IS HAPPY TO LIVE OUTDOORS FCI

Height range Formerly known as the Illyrian Shepherd Dog, this impressive breed Drop ears
Over 23 in (over 58 cm) is now named after the Sarplanina Mountains of Macedonia, where
Weight range it originated. The Sarplaninac is very much an outdoor working
66–99 lb (30–45 kg)
dog. Although it has a sociable—though protective—temperament,
Life span 11–13 years its size and energy levels make it impractical as a family pet.
Origin Macedonia
Broad, slightly
rounded top to head

Other colors
Longer hair forms
ruff around neck
Any solid Heavily
color feathered,
bushy tail
Long, dense,
dark brown coat
Broad chest Long feathering Yellowish gray
lower legs
on hindquarters

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