Greek Shepherd

The Greek Shepherd — the Ellinikos Poimenikos — is a large livestock guardian of the Greek mountains, and the country's principal flock dog.

History

It has guarded sheep and goats across the Greek highlands for centuries, working against wolf and bear in the same tradition as the other Balkan and Anatolian guardians. Recognition within Greece is comparatively recent; the working type is old.

Temperament

The breed is known for being courageous, territorial and highly independent, devoted to its flock and household and unwelcoming to strangers. It makes its own decisions, which is the job.

Care and training

It needs space, secure boundaries, early socialising and an experienced owner. Exercise needs are steady rather than athletic. The thick coat sheds heavily.

Health

Generally hardy for its size; joint problems are the usual caution in large guardians. These are patterns for the breed rather than a forecast for one dog; the measured facts are in the panel.