Adolf e Selva

The “Maremmano Abruzzese Sheepdog”
Face to face with the breeder

What made you decide to breed the “Maremma”?
The Maremma Sheepdog was my childhood playmate: I’ve always had them ever since I was a little boy, because my father kept sheep and was a fan of the Maremma. He bred them for his work, and when I got older and my love of dogs grew it was only natural for me to follow his example and teachings.
What is the ideal size for a Maremma?
As with everything, what’s best lies somewhere in the middle. A good male should not weigh less than 50 kg though. I can’t see a male weighing 35 kg being much good at tackling and overcoming a wolf.
Is it possible to have a big dog which moves well?
It’s certainly possible, if you are clear about trying to achieve harmony in the balance between power and agility.

What importance do you give to the head?
A lot. The head is the characteristic feature which makes the dog stand out.
What difficulties are to be encountered in breeding Maremmas?
No major difficulties. Brood females are always great mothers, and the breed is healthy. I adopt natural selection, without forcing the mounting, and the puppies are born and live in the open.
Would you recommend the Maremma as a guard dog?
It’s the guard dog par excellence, as it’s defensive rather than aggressive. It never looks for a fight, but is relentless if threatened. It’s a breed that defends its territory and everything in it: people, children and animals.
What type of people ask for a Maremma?
Unquestionably people who already know the breed. When you’ve had a Maremma, you don’t want to change any more. They are generally well-balanced nature-lovers with good common sense who don’t need a dog to feel important! People who love a natural, reliable dog that will look out for their home and family.
What are they like around children?
Maremmas defend the weak. The females in particular have an almost maternal devotion to children, so when there are children and elderly people in a family I always recommend a female puppy.

What is your ideal type of Maremma?
The ideal Maremma Sheepdog is always in the head of the breeder. A target that always needs to be clear and present. The essence of the breed is to be found in two words cited in the Standard: “Majestic and Distinguished”.