The Carpathian Shepherd dog is a breed of sheep dog that originated in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. It is known by many other names such as Ciobanesc Românesc Carpatin, Romanian Shepherd, Romanian Carpathian Shepherd, Câine Ciobanesc Carpatin, Carpathian Sheepdog, Carpathian Shepherd, Carpatin and Romanian Carpatin Herder.
Very little known about the origins of this breed, except that it was developed hundreds o years before written records of dog breeding were ever kept.
However, it is known that the breed was primarily kept by poor farmers in the remote regions of Europe and that it’s original purpose was always to herd and protect livestock.
There are actually several theories about the origins of the breed. But the most commonly accepted is that the breed descended from some of the first livestock guarding breeds as much as 14,000 years ago.
In March 1998, a group of fans of the Carpathian Shepherd Dog founded the Carpathian Shepherd Dogs Club. The club was later renamed the National Club of Carpathian Shepherd Dog Breeders. The club observed that there many Carpathians in Rucar, Arge? County that are considered ancestors of today’s Carpathians.[1]
Carpathian Shepherd Dog Characteristics
The Carpathian Shepherd dogs are similar in appearance to the other Romanian dogs. They are strong and wolf-like dogs. They are actually considered as medium-to-large sized breed.
The head of the Carpathian Shepherd dog is short and their muzzle roughly the same length as their skull. Their eyes should be dark brown and almond shaped. They have triangular ears flop down close to their cheeks.
They have a long back, which should be longer than they are tall, giving them a rectangular body. Their brushy tail is slightly curved and should never lie over their body when standing.
The Carpathian Shepherd dogs have a double coat which is comprised of a soft, dense inner coat and a coarse outer coat consisting of wolf-like colors (grey or fawn). The white marking are not encouraged in the show-ring, but are acceptable.
Average body height of the mature animal is between 26 and 29 inches at the withers for males, and between 23 and 26 inches for the females. Average live body weight of the mature dogs is between 35 and 50 kg for males, and between 32 and 45 kg for the females.
Temperament
The Carpathian Shepherd dogs are independent, and often-times too dominant. They can be a loving dog once you have gained it’s trust, which may take time and perseverance.
They are serious and intelligent, and are hard workers. They are an instinctive and alert guard dog, always willing to patrol their property and warn their owners of any intruder.
The Carpathian Shepherd is not an overly social dog, and they will be wary towards strangers, potentially to the point of aggression.
They have the ability to get on well with children that they have been brought up with. Although, they may accept other animals as part of their family if introduced at an early age. They are generally not be keen to make friends with new, unknown animals.
Lifespan
Average lifespan of the Carpathian Shepherd dog is between 12 and 14 years.
Feeding
How much a mature dog eats depends on it’s size, age, build, metabolism and activity level. Dogs are individuals, just like people, and they don’t all need the same amount of food.
The Carpathian Shepherd dogs are medium to large sized dogs and are moderately active. So, their diet should be formulated for a medium to large sized dog with average exercise needs. You can consult with a vet in your area for better feeding recommendations.
Caring
Taking good care of the animals is very important for raising Carpathian Shepherd dogs. They need consistent and adequate exercise, at least one hour a day.
They would benefit from a large, fenced garden which they can patrol. While they have the ability to wander over long distances, they will usually instinctively stay near their home and family. Known for being potential escape artists, it is best to ensure their garden is secure.
It is common for undesirable behaviours to develop when a dog is not suitably exercised. Due to the size of this dog and its natural propensity to walk and wander, it should not be confined to a small apartment or house. This is a dog with an affinity for the outdoors that would not be happy sitting on a sofa all day.
Health
The Carpathian Shepherd dogs are generally healthy. But like all other dog breeds, they are also prone to certain health conditions.
Their common health problems include arthritis, bloat, elbow dysplasia, eye problems and hip dysplasia. Always try to keep good contact with a vet in your area.
| Breed Name | Carpathian Shepherd |
| Other Names | Also known as Ciobanesc Românesc Carpatin, Romanian Shepherd, Romanian Carpathian Shepherd, Câine Ciobanesc Carpatin, Carpathian Sheepdog, Carpathian Shepherd, Carpatin and Romanian Carpatin Herder |
| Breed Size | Medium to large |
| Height | Between 26 and 29 inches at the withers for males, and between 23 and 26 inches for the females |
| Weight | Between 35 and 50 kg for males, and between 32 and 45 kg for the females |
| Good as pets | Yes |
| Climate Tolerance | All climates |
| Color | Grey or fawn |
| Lifespan | Between 12 and 14 years |
| Good for children | Yes |
| Rarity | Common |
| Country of Origin | Romania |
