At the beginning of the 20th century, there were two types of sheepdogs found in the Maremma and Abruzzi regions in Italy. These dogs are known in Italy as Cane da Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese (or CPMA). The large white dog of Abruzzi was heavier and had a longer coat. Bred for generations to protect flocks and farm property.
Photo courtesy of Allevamento Arajani
Cane da Pastore Maremmano-Abruzzese belong to the group of large guardian dogs of white, ivory or white-grey color with or without yellow spots with straight or slightly wavy thick coat. This group includes Pyrenees Mountain dog, Kuvasz, the Slovenky Cuvac and Polski Owcarek Podhalanski. The Maremmas are highly valued by shepherds for their intelligence, watchfullness and courage. Being strong-willed, aloof with strangers and independent, the Maremma is never aggressive.
Future owners should realize that a guardian dog is not a pet and it should be bonded to the livestock, not the owner. However, since complete independence of such a large dog can create problems with other dogs and neighbors, the Maremma should be given some obedience training. Across the world, Maremmas became popular as companion dogs for being extremely loyal, lively and alert dogs. However, when kept as a companion dog, the Maremma retains its guardian instincts and independent nature. The litter usually consists of 5 to 10 puppies. Quite defensive when young, the puppies need to get used to people from very early on.