Sardinian Shepherd Dog

The Sardinian Shepherd Dog — Cane Fonnese — is the guardian of Sardinian flocks, and it is unusually distinct genetically.

History

It has guarded sheep in the Barbagia highlands around Fonni for centuries, and a genetic study of it drew attention because the island's isolation left the breed further from other European dogs than most. Sardinian shepherds bred it for the work and nothing else, which shows in a rough, unshowy appearance.

Temperament

The breed is known for being fiercely protective, independent and bonded to its own household and flock, deeply suspicious of strangers and not a sociable dog by design.

Care and training

It needs space, secure boundaries, early socialising and an experienced owner. The rough coat needs brushing and little else.

Health

Generally very robust from hard working selection; nothing is widely documented as breed-specific. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.