Meet our Maremmas, or as Susan likes to call them, “Hearts with feet.” Fettucini and Sabine are our livestock guardian dogs and they take their job very seriously. During the day they sleep in the sun but by night they stand guard over our flock, protecting them from wild predators and roaming domestic dogs. In the Hudson Valley, we were the envy of the neighboring farmers who couldn’t believe we had never lost a lamb or goat to predators. We tell them it’s hard work on our part, but we know we would be lost without our Maremmas.
According to the Maremma Registry, “the Maremma is a friendly and well-balanced flock guardian. Sober and dignified. This loyal, brave, and determined dog makes an excellent guard-dog without being a constant barker. It is correctly described as affectionate but not dependent. This breed is not a dog that will follow your every command submissively and certainly not if it cannot see the point to it. They are very intelligent and get along with other dogs and pets, however, people who are not welcome on your property will be stopped in their tracks.
The Maremma is not as large as many of its fellow flock guards, but he still possesses comparable endurance and strength, as well as the ability to make up for the extra 50 pounds it lacks. It is alert and independent. A flock guard of impressive dominance and lifelong dedication, the breed takes control over its flock and human family. Maremmas have adapted into a marvelous companion, without losing their extraordinary working abilities. It will defend both house and master, and it is particularly attentive with children. The Maremma is a marvelous sheepdog and loves its work. It is a terrible enemy of the wolf, but tame with man. Held in high esteem by shepherds, especially in the mountains where it thrives in the snow it is resistant to both cold and brambles. Its country of origin is Italy, hence their names, but their official breed name is Maremmano Abruzzese.”
Occasionally we have a litter of puppies or know about a litter from a friends farm. We only sell puppies to farms- these dogs are not pets and they are miserable when they aren’t working. Contact us if you are interested or just want more information on the breed.
