Country of OriginRomania
Nicknames and Other NamesCarpatin Herder, Romanian Shepherd,
Carpathian Shepherd,
Ciobănesc Românesc Carpatin,
Ciobănesc Carpatin
Scientific NameCanis lupus familiaris
Breed TypePurebred
GroupWorking Dog, Molossers,
Mountain Dogs, Livestock Guardians
Bred ForWorking and Livestock
SizeLarge-Size
Recognized ByDra, ACR, FCI, NKC
Life Span12-14 Years
Ideal Weight70-100 Pounds (male and female)
Ideal HeightMale: 26-29 Inches
Female: 23-26 Inches
Fur TypeRough, Straight, Abundant
Common ColorsGrey, Sandy Wolfish, black and Grey
MarkingsBlack markings
AvailabilityModerately Available
AchievementsNone
Suitable for ApartmentsNo
Used in World WarNo
Most Similar ToLeonberger

The Carpathian Shepherd is a large-sized dog breed with a powerful, muscular, rectangular-shaped body. It has a distinct appearance that is not similar to most of the other livestock guardian breed from the Carpathian Mountains. The coat is long, dense that covers its lithe body and the head and face is like a wolf’s.

is not similar to most of the other livestock guardian breed from the Carpathian Mountains. The coat is long, dense that covers its lithe body and the head and face is like a wolf’s.

Although the original purpose of developing Carpathian Shepherd is for the livestock guardian, it also does very well as a family companion. Due to its high energy, tendency to guard, and big body, it is not at all suited in an apartment. They need an experienced dog owner and flourish in some cold place and farm where they can serve their life purpose.

History and Origin

The exact date of the Carpathian Shepherd origin is not traced. However, it is believed that they have been guarding livestock and family in the Carpathian Mountains for hundreds of years.

A single Carpathian Shepherd is powerful enough to fight big predators but also they are typically known to be protecting livestock and will call in the pack if there is any threat detected.

A group of fans of the Carpathian Shepherd founded the Carpathian Shepherd Dog club in 1998 which was later renamed as the National Club of Carpathian Shepherd Dog Breeders.

Temperament, Behavior, and Personality

Temperament: The Carpathian Shepherd is known to have a courageous, well-mannered, and devoted temperament. As a guardian, we can say that it is very protective of its people and their properties. They have a history where it is said that they have even battled with bear in an attempt to save livestock and their master from the harm.

Behavior: Carpathian Shepherd was used as a guardian as well as a working dog. They have high stamina and they need good amount of regular physical activities. So, for their healthy body and happy mind, regular physical exercise is most.

Personality: The personality of the Carpathian Shepherd is calm, gentle with family, and wary of strangers. Their calm, loyal, and gentle nature makes them an excellent family companion. They are loving towards their people and suspicious of strangers which makes them great guard dogs.

Carpathian Shepherd running on the field
Carpathian Shepherd running on the field.
Image Source: Pinterest-@Danielle Goodman

Trainability

The Carpathian Shepherd is a strong-willed, one-minded, independent dog which makes training them really tough. The master should start training at an early age when they are very eager to please their owners.

Establish a strong and consistent leadership upon them before they see themselves as the pack leader. Once they think of themselves as a leader, it becomes hard to train and make them follow the command.

Is Carpathian Shepherd Child-Friendly?

Yes, Carpathian Shepherd is a gentle and friendly dog breed that gets along with children. They are very patient and tolerant of children but it is always necessary to supervise their interaction. Due to your dog’s large size, there might be the risk of accidental knock over the kids. So, to avoid accidents, elderly supervision is always necessary.

A boy hugging Carpathian Shepherd
A boy hugging Carpathian Shepherd.
Image Source: Instagram-@eidos101

Facts

  • Although Carpathian Shepherd is believed to be an ancient breed, it has not yet been recognized by any major kennel club.

Health Issues

General HealthHealthy
Common Health IssuesBloat, Hip Dysplasia,
Vaccination Sensitivity
HypoallergenicNo
Vaccination RequiredCanine Parvovirus, Kennel Cough,
Canine Parainfluenza, Rabies,
Canine Coronavirus,
Leptospirosis, Canine Distemper
SheddingModerate Shedder
DroolingQuite a lot Drooler
GroomingEasy and Minimal Grooming Required
Weight Gain PotentialAverage to High
Separation AnxietyModerate Chance
AllergiesNone
Diets and SupplementsProtein: 23%
Fat: 8%
Glucosamine
Antioxidants
Multivitamins

The Carpathian Shepherd can face the following possible canine health problems:

  • Elbow Dysplasia: It is a situation where the elbow joints of your dog are dislocated from its original place. It can be painful, so take it to a vet for a proper check-up before it gets worse.
  • Bloat: When the abdomen of your dog looks like it is swollen, it is due to bloat. It can often cause pain, so if it is a serious case, take your dog to a vet.

Colors

The Carpathian Shepherd comes in the following colors:

  • Pale Fawn
  • Gray
  • Various Black shades

Puppies

Carpathian Shepherd puppy on the field
Carpathian Shepherd puppy on the field.
Image Source: animalsadda

Cost: The cost of the Carpathian Shepherd is $600-$800 USD.

Size

Height: The average height of the Carpathian Shepherd is between 23-29 inches.

Weight: The average weight of the Carpathian Shepherd is between 70-100 pounds.

Similar Dog Breeds to the Carpathian Shepherd

Visit Doglime for more dog breeds information and their behavior.

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