Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog

Breed Description

The ancestors of these large herding dogs were indigenous Carpathian dogs of various known and unknown breeds. According to some sources, a shepherd dog breeder near the territory of modern Moldova, in the Carpathian Mountains (Romania), crossed local dogs to achieve optimal results in protecting his flock of sheep and assisting in their grazing. The main focus of the experiment was on improving working traits: intelligence, strength, keen eyesight, independence, good health, and low maintenance. The result was large shepherds resembling sheepdogs – due to their long fur, local breeders named them the Mioritic Shepherd or Mioritic. Currently, Mioritics are in high demand in their homeland. However, not many of these shepherds have been exported beyond Romania. A few specimens reached Germany, Bulgaria, and Moldova. In fact, in these countries, one can find dog kennels or purchase a dog from a breeder.

These dogs continue to be used for herding sheep and protecting local farmers’ properties. The Romanian Kennel Club developed the first breed standard as early as 1981. However, the FCI accepted it with modifications only in 2002 in Buenos Aires, where a Brazilian shepherd dog breeder decided to open his own kennel.

The appearance of the shepherds can be somewhat deceptive. Their coat color misleads predators, causing them to notice the danger too late when the shepherds are in close proximity. Shepherds note their high effectiveness in work. Any sluggishness in movement during encounters dissipates, and these dogs can easily deal with a wolf, even when facing the predator one-on-one.

Unfortunately, finding a Mioritic kennel in Russia is not easy. There is considerable competition among herding breeds in our country. Shepherds are quite prevalent, and local breeds often displace other varieties. However, for your convenience, we have listed verified kennels, addresses, and advertisements from reputable breeders on our website. You can purchase a puppy from a kennel remotely, but for this type of purchase, it is essential to clarify in advance what documents are needed for its delivery to Russia and the cost of logistics. The price of a purebred Mioritic Shepherd puppy will be available after requesting the kennel’s price list. On average, such puppies cost around 50,000 rubles, excluding delivery to Russia.

Appearance

The Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is a majestic and muscular breed that features striking physical traits, exceptional working qualities, loyalty, and a calm demeanor. Their average lifespan is around 12 to 14 years, although there have been instances of individuals living up to 16 years, raised by one shepherd dog breeder. Males of this breed are typically noticeably larger than females, standing from 70 to 80 centimeters at the shoulder (75 cm is considered optimal), while females measure from 65 to 75 centimeters (70 cm is regarded as the standard). Adult males can weigh between 60 to 80 kilograms, whereas adult females usually weigh from 50 to 65 kilograms. The breed standard requirements only specify a proportional relationship between height and weight.

Key exterior features of Romanian Mioritic Shepherds include powerful and compact musculature, a broad chest, a straight and strong back, large paws, and a sturdy neck. Their thick double coat provides excellent protection against various weather conditions. The coloration of Mioritic Shepherds varies, primarily ranging from shades of gray to black, sometimes with white or brown markings.

Thus, the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog is an intelligent, well-proportioned, and strong dog capable of handling high physical loads. Its external power and grandeur combine with a loving and loyal nature, making this breed an excellent choice for active and caring family owners.

Отличительные черты

Голова

Somewhat rounded and moderately wide. When viewed from the side, it is clear that the upper part of the head is almost parallel to the muzzle. Moreover, the length of the muzzle is slightly shorter than that of the skull. The brow ridges are not prominent but are lightly defined. The occiput is clearly noticeable, while the forehead is not very pronounced.

Морда

Slightly shorter than or equal to the length of the head when measured from the forehead to the nape, with a wide bridge of the nose and a large black nasal tip. The nostrils are well open, the lips are fairly thick but elastic, pigmented black. Deviations from the specified parameters are considered a disadvantage.

Уши

The ears are set high, fairly wide apart on the head, not very large, hanging and pressed against the head. Cropping is not allowed. They are V-shaped, with rounded edges, no more than 15 cm from the base to the tip. Standing ears are considered a serious deficiency or fault.

Глаза

It can't be said that they are very large; rather, they are proportional to the size of the skull. Slightly set obliquely, they don't bulge out but also aren't too deeply set. The iris is preferably dark brown or in similar dark shades, while yellow irises are prohibited. The gaze is calm or cheerful.

Зубы

Full set of teeth: 42 large, white teeth with strong jaws that should close like scissors. The cheekbones are hardly prominent. The absence of a tooth is considered a flaw, and any bite other than the specified one is grounds for disqualification.

Корпус

The body is powerful, well-built, with excellent musculature. The upper part is very strong and straight. The strong back is parallel to the ground, and the withers are not prominent. The broad loins are as strong as the back. The chest is wide, quite deep, but not barrel-shaped. The belly is not dry, but it doesn't sag either.

Конечности

Свободные, мощные движения достигаются за счет строения конечностей. Передние ноги прямые, при взгляде с любой из сторон, умеренно длинные лопатки хорошо обмускулены и притянуты к телу, как и локти, которые направлены строго назад. Чуть под наклоном передние пяти, компактные овальные подушечки со сводчатыми пальцами, довольно массивные. Задние ноги стоят параллельно друг другу и прямо. Умеренно выраженные углы задних ног, бедро длинное, очень мускулистое, мощное. Кость очень крепкая, высокие скакательные суставы. Задние ноги длиннее передних.

Хвост

The stance is quite high, and docking is not considered standard and is prohibited. In a calm state, the dog holds it down but slightly curved at the tips. Its length reaches the hock joints. A docked tail is considered a disqualifying feature, as is a docked tail. When excited, it is held up high but does not curl in a ring.

Шерсть

It has special properties and protects against bad weather. It is very coarse to the touch, dense, and long (no shorter than 10 cm), without curls. It is double-coated, with a very soft, warm, and dense undercoat that is lighter than the main color. Notably, the fur on the legs is shorter, while the tail has a significant tuft.

Окрас

The FCI standard states that the coat of the Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dog can be pure white, solid gray, or spotted. The spotted coat is predominantly white, with gray or black patches throughout the body. The patches must be clearly defined. Albinism is considered a disqualifying fault.

Traits

As noted by well-known dog breeders and many experienced dog trainers, each type of shepherd exhibits certain common temperament traits. However, there are many nuances that depend on the breed’s region of origin. For example, Romanian shepherds display a particular hatred for wild animals, especially predators, yet any guard dog breeder can recommend them as a good family companion and protector.

First, let’s highlight the most prominent positive traits of Romanian Mioritic shepherds. Their loyalty and devotion are known to all who are familiar with the breed. These dogs are always ready to protect their family and territory at any cost. Proper socialization can make them safe for people, but when strangers appear, one must stay vigilant to calm the dog in time; otherwise, the consequences for the outsider can be unfortunate.

Smart and resourceful, these dogs possess sharp minds and excellent instincts. They learn quickly and can make independent decisions in challenging situations.

The independence of Romanian Mioritic shepherds, combined with their strong character, makes them excellent working dogs. They can make important decisions when defending flocks or their owners’ property and effectively take action on their own in case of aggression from outsiders.

Endurance and strength. Mioritic shepherds exhibit phenomenal stamina and immense physical strength, which makes them ideal for work in any weather conditions. A few of these dogs can take on a bear, and they can handle a wolf or lynx on their own.

Their protective qualities are well-known. Romanian Mioritic shepherds excel as guards and protectors. Their readiness to stay alert all night and defend their territory makes them valuable watchdogs.At the same time, alongside all their tough traits, they show a remarkable love for children. These formidable guard dogs are very good with kids and can make excellent companions for families. With proper upbringing, little ones can ride on their fluffy guardians. However, it’s still better for the owner to be nearby.Due to their excellent working qualities, Romanian Mioritic shepherds are valued on local farms, where they effectively manage sheep herding.However, among all their merits, there are some contentious or negative character traits:Stubbornness. For example, sometimes Mioritic shepherds can be stubborn during training, which requires patience and consistency.Tendency to dominate. Their leadership qualities can manifest negatively; at times, individuals of this breed may try to impose their will and take the top position in the household hierarchy, making it important to establish clear boundaries and rules for interacting with them. As recommended by trusted

Care and Maintenance

Optimal conditions for the care and maintenance of Romanian Mioritic Shepherd Dogs involve several key aspects. Romanian Mioritic Shepherds are hyperactive. They require daily, long, and intense physical activity. If a dog is not used for herding livestock and sits on a chain or is confined in a kennel, it is essential to allow it to run free or play outdoors. Some dog breeders take their dogs along when cycling. Games with these large dogs provide joy for children, so some breeders focus on enhancing the companion traits in their dogs’ temperament. Besides physical activity, it is also crucial to offer them intellectual stimulation. A strong and healthy dog can be dangerous if its intelligence is underdeveloped.

For comfortable living conditions, Romanian Mioritic Shepherds need ample space for physical activity. Dogs of this breed require a home or property with spacious areas where they can run and frolic freely. If you live in the city, buying a puppy from a kennel and bringing it to your spacious apartment would be a significant mistake. These animals need outdoor space where they can run freely without restrictions. However, when you decide to buy a dog from a kennel, do not forget to provide a resting place and shelter from bad weather. These dogs can handle both heat and cold well, but they still need protection from extreme weather conditions, such as scorching sun or heavy rain.

Grooming the coat of Romanian Mioritic Shepherds is also important. Their thick, double coat requires regular brushing. This care, which includes de-shedding the undercoat, especially during shedding seasons, is usually sufficient. Generally, their fur is not trimmed, as this can damage the natural properties of the coat’s protective oils. The undercoat should be brushed out with a de-shedding tool, while the outer coat requires a brush with closely spaced bristles. De-matting tools may be necessary if the fur has become tangled. However, shepherds and farmers pay very little attention to their dogs’ appearance, as their working qualities are far more important. These are ensured by good health and a proper diet. To keep the dog healthy, nails should be trimmed if they have grown too long and have not worn down naturally. Additionally, a daily eye check will help preserve the vision of these reliable sheepdogs. Cleaning their ears at least once a week will protect them from ear infections. If you notice cloudy discharge in the corners of the eyes or under the lower eyelid, consult a veterinarian without delay. In some situations, a black tea solution can be used to w
The diet of Romanian Mioritic Shepherds should also be balanced and rich in nutrients. It’s important to monitor their diet, taking into account their activity level, age, and health condition. This is fairly simple if using ready-made super-premium commercial feeds or holistic options. These provide adequate amounts of proteins, fats, and carbohydrates, as well as vitamins in the right proportions. However, these foods can be quite expensive and may significantly impact your budget. If feeding on natural food, it’s advisable for the owner to consult a veterinarian for menu development. In any case, do not overfeed the dog, and ensure it has continuous access to drinking water.

Training and Education

In general, training (in the broad sense of the term) is not required for Mioritic Shepherds. Giant mastiffs are not intended for jumping through flaming hoops and performing in circuses, though their intelligence allows them to excel in such arenas. Cuddly shepherds with charming expressions need proper upbringing and socialization more than anything else.

However, it is crucial to note that a Mioritic Shepherd should be accompanied by a firm individual who will act as its leader. Otherwise, its strong will can easily “grind down” an inexperienced owner, pushing them down the hierarchy without the chance to regain leadership.

As reputable dog breeders say, Mioritics are calm and disciplined when they receive enough physical exercise. This term encompasses not only runs and active play in the meadows but also intellectual development. Commands like “Attack!!”, “No!”, “Come here!”, “Forbidden!”, “Allowed!”, or “Wait!” are usually taught from a young age. Ideally, training should take place after a nap and before meals, when the dog is rested and hasn’t yet become lazy after eating.

If an owner wants to show off their dog to other owners of similar breeds, they can teach their dog specific sounds that signify certain actions. However, training should only begin once the owner is sure that the dog always hears their voice, responds correctly to its name, and understands their tone.

For example, one sheepdog breeder gives commands to their pack through gestures for specific actions. It is said that this method did not require much time to develop. While working with the herd, he would duplicate vocal commands with gestures and soon the dogs learned to work in complete silence. This method, of course, wouldn’t work in the dark.

When training, one should never shout at the dog or punish it for not obeying or incorrectly performing a command. Positive reinforcement yields the best results, appreciating each correct action of the pet. For instance, giving a treat, petting, or praising with a kind tone, or even all of the above at once. At Zooinika, they offer puppies with pedigrees and health guarantees.

How to Choose a Puppy

Choosing a Romanian Mioritic Shepherd puppy will be easier if you follow a few tips from reputable breeders:

– It’s important to find dog breeders on the map, but a recommended herding dog breeder from friends will also work. This is an optimal option, but before doing so, make sure to study the breed standard and ensure that the owner provides appropriate living conditions and has experience in breeding Romanian Mioritic Shepherds.

– Getting to know the parents of the litter will give you information about the character traits that will prevail in the purchased puppy. In addition to temperament, you can also assess the dog’s physical appearance.

– Inspect the animals’ living conditions and compare them with the requirements for optimal conditions for Mioritics. It’s a good sign if the puppies grow up in clean environments and look well-groomed. Cleanliness and the good state of the space indicate the breeder’s care and responsible approach to their pets.

– Evaluate the puppies by spending time with each of them individually as well as together, observing their behavior. Pay attention to how they interact with each other and respond to you-this will help you understand their character and level of socialization.

– Consult the breeder with any questions you have. The more you learn from them, the easier it will be for you to care for your new puppy. Every breeder of guard dogs knows their puppies like their own children and can provide thorough recommendations. With documentation and pedigree, there is a wide selection of breeds available at Zooinika.

Health and Diseases

The excellent health of the Mioritic shepherds is envied by many other breeds. With their robust immunity inherited from indigenous dogs, these fluffy herding dogs are not afraid of colds, as their fur and thick undercoat protect them from the cold. As renowned dog breeders say, even sleeping in snowdrifts is no problem for these dogs.

However, there can be some challenges with their eyesight. For example, retinal dystrophy may have a progressive course that leads to blindness if the animal is not treated. Symptoms of this condition, such as night blindness, may first appear in dogs over the age of 6. A veterinarian usually conducts an examination of the fundus and prescribes a treatment course that stabilizes vision and slows down the progression of the condition.

Unfortunately, the Romanian Mioritic shepherd is prone to the notorious hip dysplasia. This hereditary condition most often affects one of the hip joints. Over time, the dog’s mobility decreases, resulting in pain and weight gain, which can lead to liver and heart problems. There is currently no cure for hip dysplasia. However, timely diagnosis can significantly improve the quality of life for the dog and the care it requires. Considering this? There is a vast selection of listings available on the map across cities on ZooNika.