Dog Breeds - Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog

Breed Attributes & Qualities

CARING WITH FAMILY + Independent Lovey-Dovey
The level of affection that a breed is inclined to show towards its family members, as well as individuals they are familiar with, greatly varies. While certain breeds may appear distant and indifferent towards everyone except their owner, other breeds embrace every person they are acquainted with as if they were their closest companion.
LOVE WITH CHILDREN + Unwise Good With Children
The extent to which a breed can tolerate and be patient with children's behavior along with their overall family-friendly disposition is an important consideration. It is crucial to supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.
BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS + Unwise Good With Other Dogs
The natural friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is a factor to consider. While interactions and introductions between dogs should always be supervised, certain breeds exhibit a greater inclination to get along with other dogs both within the home and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT No Shedding Hair Everywhere +
Understanding the amount of fur and hair a breed is known to shed is important. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing are more likely to cause allergies in certain individuals and will likely necessitate more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling.
COAT GROOMING STANDARDS Monthly Daily +
When considering grooming needs, it's essential to evaluate how often a breed requires bathing, brushing, trimming or other coat maintenance tasks. This assessment should take into account the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for such care. Additionally, it's important to note that regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.
DROOLING INTENSITY Less Likely to Drool Always Have a Towel +
The tendency of a breed to drool is an important factor to consider. If you prefer cleanliness and are fastidious about maintaining a spotless appearance, breeds that frequently leave ropes of saliva on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.
COAT TYPE +
Double
COAT LENGTH +
Medium

FRIENDLINESS Reserved Everyone Is My Best Friend +
The level of welcoming behavior that a breed exhibits towards strangers is worth noting. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around strangers, regardless of the setting, while others eagerly embrace new human acquaintances whenever they are encountered.
LIVELINESS Only When You Want To Play Non-Stop +
The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play is worth considering even beyond the puppyhood stage. Certain breeds will maintain a strong interest in playing tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. Conversely, other breeds will derive contentment from simply relaxing on the couch with you for the majority of their time.
VIGILANCE INTENSITY What's Mine Is Yours Vigilant +
It is important to consider a breed's inclination to alert you when strangers are present. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any perceived threat be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are also likely to warm up to strangers who enter the house provided they are accepted by their family.
ADAPTATION CAPACITY Lives For Routine Highly Adaptable +
The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an important aspect to consider. This encompasses adjustments to living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life. Evaluating a breed's ability to adapt to these changes is crucial when selecting a suitable companion.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL Self-Willed Eager to Please +
The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are significant factors to consider. Certain breeds are intrinsically motivated to make their owners proud and are eager to learn. On the other hand, some breeds have a more independent mindset preferring to do things on their own terms, whenever and wherever they please.
STAMINA LEVEL Couch Potato High Energy +
Understanding the exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed is crucial. High-energy breeds are always ready and eager for new adventures, spending their time running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more laid-back and content with simply lounging around and snoozing. Tailoring the exercise routine and mental stimulation to meet the specific needs of a breed is essential for their overall well-being.
VOCALIZATION Only To Alert Very Vocal +
The frequency of vocalization including barks or howls is an important characteristic to consider. Certain breeds tend to bark at every passer-by or bird they spot in the window, while others reserve their barks for specific situations. Additionally, there are barkless breeds that may still be vocal and use alternative sounds to express themselves. Understanding a breed's vocal tendencies can help you determine if their communication style aligns with your preferences and living situation.
LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL Loaf Needs an Activity +
The mental stimulation requirements of a breed are important to consider for their overall happiness and well-being. Purpose-bred dogs with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities, have a higher need for mental exercise. If they don't receive enough mental stimulation, such dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the projects you would prefer. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for a breed is crucial to ensure their mental health and prevent boredom-induced behavior issues.

COLORS

PATTERNS

CARING WITH FAMILY

Independent

Lovey-Dovey

The level of affection that a breed is inclined to show towards its family members, as well as individuals they are familiar with, greatly varies. While certain breeds may appear distant and indifferent towards everyone except their owner, other breeds embrace every person they are acquainted with as if they were their closest companion.

LOVE WITH CHILDREN

Unwise

Good With Children

The extent to which a breed can tolerate and be patient with children's behavior along with their overall family-friendly disposition is an important consideration. It is crucial to supervise dogs when they are around young children or children of any age who have limited exposure to dogs.

BEHAVIOR WITH DOGS

Unwise

Good With Other Dogs

The natural friendliness of a breed towards other dogs is a factor to consider. While interactions and introductions between dogs should always be supervised, certain breeds exhibit a greater inclination to get along with other dogs both within the home and in public settings.

SHEDDING LEVELS & MANAGEMENT

No Shedding

Hair Everywhere

Understanding the amount of fur and hair a breed is known to shed is important. Breeds that shed heavily will require more frequent brushing are more likely to cause allergies in certain individuals and will likely necessitate more consistent efforts in terms of vacuuming and lint-rolling.

COAT GROOMING STANDARDS

Monthly

Daily

When considering grooming needs, it's essential to evaluate how often a breed requires bathing, brushing, trimming or other coat maintenance tasks. This assessment should take into account the amount of time, patience and budget you can allocate for such care. Additionally, it's important to note that regular nail trimming is necessary for all breeds.

DROOLING INTENSITY

Less Likely to Drool

Always Have a Towel

The tendency of a breed to drool is an important factor to consider. If you prefer cleanliness and are fastidious about maintaining a spotless appearance, breeds that frequently leave ropes of saliva on your arm or create significant wet spots on your clothes may not be the most suitable choice for you.

COAT STYLES GUIDE

Double

COAT SPECTRUM

Medium

FRIENDLINESS

Reserved

Everyone Is My Best Friend

The level of welcoming behavior that a breed exhibits towards strangers is worth noting. Certain breeds tend to be reserved or cautious around strangers, regardless of the setting, while others eagerly embrace new human acquaintances whenever they are encountered.

LIVELINESS

Only When You Want To Play

Non-Stop

The level of enthusiasm a breed exhibits towards play is worth considering even beyond the puppyhood stage. Certain breeds will maintain a strong interest in playing tug-of-war or fetch well into their adult years. Conversely, other breeds will derive contentment from simply relaxing on the couch with you for the majority of their time.

VIGILANCE INTENSITY

What's Mine Is Yours

Vigilant

It is important to consider a breed's inclination to alert you when strangers are present. Certain breeds are more likely to react to any perceived threat be it the mailman or a squirrel outside the window. These breeds are also likely to warm up to strangers who enter the house provided they are accepted by their family.

ADAPTATION CAPACITY

Lives For Routine

Highly Adaptable

The adaptability of a breed to handle change is an important aspect to consider. This encompasses adjustments to living conditions, noise levels, weather conditions, daily schedules and other variations in day-to-day life. Evaluating a breed's ability to adapt to these changes is crucial when selecting a suitable companion.

OBEDIENCE LEVEL

Self-Willed

Eager to Please

The ease of training and the willingness of a dog to learn new things are significant factors to consider. Certain breeds are intrinsically motivated to make their owners proud and are eager to learn. On the other hand, some breeds have a more independent mindset preferring to do things on their own terms, whenever and wherever they please.

STAMINA LEVEL

Couch Potato

High Energy

Understanding the exercise and mental stimulation requirements of a breed is crucial. High-energy breeds are always ready and eager for new adventures, spending their time running, jumping and playing throughout the day. On the other hand, low-energy breeds tend to be more laid-back and content with simply lounging around and snoozing. Tailoring the exercise routine and mental stimulation to meet the specific needs of a breed is essential for their overall well-being.

VOCALIZATION

Only To Alert

Very Vocal

Infrequent

LEARNING CURIOSITY LEVEL

Happy to Lounge

Needs a Job or Activity

The mental stimulation requirements of a breed are important to consider for their overall happiness and well-being. Purpose-bred dogs with jobs that involve decision-making, problem-solving, concentration and other qualities, have a higher need for mental exercise. If they don't receive enough mental stimulation, such dogs may create their own activities to keep their minds occupied, which may not align with the projects you would prefer. Providing appropriate mental stimulation for a breed is crucial to ensure their mental health and prevent boredom-induced behavior issues.

COLORS

Description	Registration Code
Gray	100
White	199

PATTERNS

Description	Registration Code
Black Markings	002
White Markings	014
Piebald	025
Gray Markings	028

About The Breed

The Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog originating near the Carpathian Mountains is a remarkable breed known for its size and character. Traditionally used as a Livestock Guarding Dog (LGD) in Romania, this breed exhibits loyalty, reliability, independence and strong protectiveness. Despite its friendly and devoted nature towards its family, it tends to be wary of strangers.

Being a large dog with a long coat, the Mioritic Shepherd requires regular grooming. Like any dog of its size and temperament, it needs daily exercise and basic obedience training. Although Mioritics are lively and stubborn, they are also sensitive creatures behind their protective exterior. As puppies, they form close bonds with the pack that has accepted them, which can include dogs, cats, horses or sheep. They require strong family ties and tend to prefer being close to their favorite person. They choose their own resting place, which may even be an unsuitable spot like a couch or carpet.

The Mioritic Shepherd doesn't require a strict "work-creating" program, but it benefits from daily walks and hikes to provide mental and physical stimulation. These activities offer exciting variation to keep them engaged and content.

What to Expect When Caring for A ROMANIAN MIORITIC SHEPHERD DOG

Owning a dog is indeed a significant responsibility that extends far beyond providing the basic necessities of food and shelter. Dogs as sentient beings require a comprehensive level of care that encompasses physical health emotional well-being, and mental stimulation.

Anticipating the Needs of Your Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog: Insights and Tips.

Taking a dog under your wing is no small favor; it's a true commitment. These devoted pets count on us for life's necessities such as food and a safe abode, however, they are entitled to a greater level of care.

Health

	With the Mioritic breed being relatively new to rescue operations in the Romanian countryside, we currently have limited access to medical data. However, it's crucial to be aware of the potential danger of bloat, which is a concern for large breeds. Additionally, instances of hip dysplasia have been observed. Nevertheless, it is worth noting that Mioritic dogs that maintain a healthy lifestyle have been known to live for up to 14 years. Recommended Health Tests from the National Breed Club:

Grooming

	Despite the Mioritic Shepherd's scraggly fur, it is considered a low-maintenance breed. They typically do not require frequent bathing or daily brushing. If they do get wet or dirty, they are confined until the dirt or mud can be easily brushed out. The breed has a self-cleaning nature and a dry Mioritic is generally considered clean. In addition to basic care such as daily monitoring of eyes, ears and teeth, Mioritic Shepherds undergo a thorough grooming session once a week. Starting grooming procedures early on with the puppies is also a part of their daily training, as grooming helps establish hierarchy. The dog that allows grooming accepts the dominance of the one performing the grooming. This grooming routine helps maintain the cleanliness and overall health of the Mioritic Shepherd, ensuring their coat and overall appearance remains in good condition.

Exercise

	As puppies grow, they tend to have a surplus of energy and require regular walks and attention. On the other hand, adult dogs are generally more reserved and satisfied with a daily walk. Livestock Guarding Dogs, in particular are not known for being high-energy since they prioritize staying close to their flock (or people).

Training

	The Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dogs possess an exceptional sense of territory and serve as unyielding guardians. However, it's important to note that their territorial instincts extend beyond the boundaries of their property gate. They consider any area where their pack is located or stays as part of their territory. They diligently watch over everything within their line of sight, often from a vantage point at high ground. These dogs are creatures of strict habit and promptly react to anything out of the ordinary. Initially, they pay close attention followed by loud barking and if needed, they may resort to aggression or defensive actions. Fondly nicknamed "little sheep," they take their role as protectors seriously and deeply cherish their territory, pack and established routines. Any disruption to this harmony is unwelcome to them.

Nutrition

	Similar to other livestock dogs, the Mioritic Shepherd Dog efficiently utilizes its food and requires much less than one might expect. It is particularly important to note that they need less food than what various food manufacturers recommend on their packaging. If you opt for kibble, it is advisable to select a brand with a low protein content since Livestock Guarding Dogs do not process high protein well. There is no exact formula for their diet, but a combination of dry kibble, ground raw food, vegetables, fruits, eggs and even low-fat table scraps like noodles, rice and oats can be used for adult dogs. It is recommended to feed them twice a day to prevent overeating and the possibility of bloat. As growing puppies, they should be fed four times a day. Care should be taken not to overfeed them. Any unconsumed food after 15 minutes should be removed and the dog should have a rest period of 1-2 hours after eating to ensure proper digestion. Moreover, it is important to always have fresh water available for the dog to drink at any time.

Historiography

The Mioritic Shepherd Dog exhibits the typical qualities seen in Livestock Guard Dogs. Its personality is characterized by a strong sense of independence and remarkable self-confidence. The primary role of this shepherd dog is to effectively deter any potential troublemakers and it possesses this ability instinctively without requiring specific training. From an early age, it is important to teach the dog to avoid utilizing threatening behaviors such as self-display, excessive barking, or charging.

The Mioritic Shepherd Dog demonstrates a clear distinction between unfamiliar and familiar individuals. It is friendly and dependable with those it knows, while showing caution and mistrust towards strangers. Only after careful evaluation will strangers be accepted into its exclusive circle of friends. Towards its pack, family, and owner, this breed shows exceptional loyalty, affection, reliability, understanding and a willingness to compromise.

The Mioritic Shepherd Dog proves to be a tolerant and gentle companion for children. While it is happy to serve as a cuddly blanket, it does not particularly enjoy playing.